What is an eyelid lift?
An eyelid lift is a surgical procedure used to tighten the eye area and make the upper half of the face appear fresher and younger. Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed and the muscles are tightened. Dr Matiasek performs the operation under local anaesthetic or, if desired, under twilight sedation.
In the world of cosmetic surgery, an eyelid lift is a frequently performed operation, as most people's eyelids sag considerably with age. Compared to other cosmetic surgeries, eyelid lifting is a relatively minor procedure that is usually performed on an outpatient basis and does not usually require a long recovery period.
There are different types of eyelid lifts, depending on which areas of the eye are affected. One Upper eyelid lift for example, refers to the area of the upper eyelid, while a Lower eyelid lift the lower eyelid. A combined upper and lower eyelid lift is also possible. An eyelid lift can be performed for aesthetic reasons, for example for patients who suffer from sagging or drooping eyelids that make the face look tired or sad, but it can also have practical medical implications, for example for people who have problems seeing due to age-related changes or injuries.
What are drooping eyelids?
Drooping eyelids are a mostly aesthetic problem that occurs when excess skin or fatty tissue accumulates on the upper or lower eyelid. This can cause the eyelid to droop and make the eyes look dull or tired. Although drooping eyelids mainly occur in older people, as they can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, ageing, sun damage, smoking and other environmental factors, they can also be quite pronounced at a young age. In extreme cases, they can also impair vision and thus limit the affected person's quality of life. Here too, an eyelid lift can help to remove drooping eyelids and improve the appearance of the eyes or vision.
How does an eyelid lift work?
The eyelid lift procedure always begins with a preliminary examination, during which Dr Matiasek examines the condition of your eye area and informs you about the planned procedure. The possible options are discussed using the Vectra 3D simulation. We will also ask you about your medical history and discuss your wishes and expectations. Be open and honest and tell Dr Matiasek about any medication you are currently taking or have taken in the past. Provided there are no medical reasons against it, you can choose between a local anaesthetic and twilight sleep.
Dr Matiasek begins the operation by marking the skin to be removed and injecting anaesthetics into the affected areas. The eyelid lift is performed by Dr Matiasek using special surgical instruments and techniques. These include scalpels, electrocautery, scissors and tweezers to make precise incisions and remove excess tissue. Depending on the method and technique, Dr Matiasek also uses lasers or radiofrequency devices. Dr Matiasek performs all eyelid lifts under magnifying glasses to ensure maximum precision.
An upper eyelid lift always involves a small incision in the natural crease of the upper eyelid, through which Dr Matiasek removes excess skin, muscle and fat. By placing the incision in the natural crease, he can ensure that the scar is as inconspicuous as possible after healing. Once the procedure is complete, he sutures the wound and covers it with a sterile dressing.
A lower eyelid lift is usually performed through an incision below the lower lash line. In some cases, the operation can also be performed through an incision on the inside of the lower eyelid so as not to leave any visible scars. Once the excess tissue has been removed, the wound is sutured, the eye area is cooled and covered with special plasters or bandages.
It is also possible to perform an upper eyelid lift and a lower eyelid lift at the same time in order to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the eye area. The duration of the eyelid lift depends on the type of procedure and the extent of the areas to be treated. An upper eyelid lift usually takes about an hour, while a combined upper and lower eyelid lift can take two hours. You can go home on the same day, but you should take sufficient rest in the following days to promote rapid healing.
How long does the healing process take?
The healing process after an eyelid lift varies from person to person and also depends on the extent of the procedure. It usually takes around one to two weeks for the swelling and bruising to subside and the scars to heal.
Pain, swelling and bruising may occur in the first few days after the operation, which can be alleviated by cooling the eye area and taking painkillers. It is important to avoid physical exertion in the first few days after the operation and to keep the eye area clean and dry to avoid infection. When cooling, please ensure that you do not place the cooling goggles directly on the treated area in order to avoid icing and friction on the wound. Always place a thin towel or kitchen paper in between.
Dr Matiasek removes the stitches after six to seven days, which may take a short time and make the area sensitive again for a few hours. Afterwards, it makes sense to support the healing process with lymphatic drainage in the form of endermologie (LPG) and to reduce the duration of the swelling. After one to two weeks, you can generally go about your everyday life again without any restrictions, including wearing make-up and contact lenses.
The final healing process may vary depending on the patient's individual condition and speed of recovery. Lecturer Dr Matiasek will guide you throughout the healing process and provide instructions and recommendations to promote a successful recovery.
Who is a good candidate for an eyelid lift?
People for whom an eyelid lift is particularly suitable are usually those who suffer from sagging or drooping eyelids that make the face appear tired or sad. This can be caused by ageing processes or injuries. The eye area is a sensitive area that is often the first to show signs of ageing. An eyelid lift can help to rejuvenate and refresh the face.
However, not every patient is suitable for an eyelid lift. Patients with certain medical conditions, eye problems or a history of haemorrhage or infection may not be able to have an eyelid lift. Dr Matiasek will decide whether the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure as part of a thorough preliminary examination.
What do I need to consider before an eyelid lift?
A preliminary examination by Dr Matiasek is necessary to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the operation and whether there are any medical indications against surgery. Before the operation, it is important that you provide Dr Matiasek with a list of all medications and dietary supplements you are taking. In some cases, certain medications must be discontinued beforehand to reduce the risk of bleeding and other complications. Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. You should therefore stop smoking at least two weeks before the operation and not start again until the healing process is complete. It is beneficial and recommended to avoid alcohol in the days leading up to the operation and to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. If you wish to have the procedure performed under twilight sedation, you should not eat or drink anything a few hours before the operation to reduce the risk of complications during the anaesthetic. On the day of the operation, you should wear comfortable clothing and make sure you have someone to take you home afterwards, as you may still be under the effects of the anaesthetic after the procedure.
By preparing carefully for surgery, you can reduce the risk of complications and speed up the healing process. It is important to follow all of Dr Matiasek's instructions carefully and to discuss any concerns or questions you may have before the operation.
What needs to be considered after an eyelid lift?
After the operation, you should take enough time to recover and relax. Avoid physical exertion and sport and instead allow yourself to rest and take it easy. Cooling the eyelids with cooling goggles can help to reduce swelling and pain. It is likely that you will experience slight pain in the days following the procedure. This is completely normal and usually goes away on its own within a few days or weeks. Pain medication can help to alleviate the discomfort. Dr Matiasek can prescribe these for you after the operation. He can also prescribe eye drops and ointments to support healing and prevent infections.
Make sure to protect the eye area from sunlight and UV rays to avoid discolouration and scarring. It is best to wear sunglasses, especially if the procedure takes place in summer. Dr Matiasek will arrange follow-up appointments with you to monitor the progress of healing and prevent possible complications.
How long does it take to see the results of the tightening?
The first results of an eyelid lift are usually visible after around one to two weeks, when the swelling and bruising have subsided. However, please bear in mind that this depends, among other things, on the extent of the procedure, the individual healing speed and post-operative care.
However, it usually takes four to six weeks until the swelling has completely subsided and the final result of the eyelid lift is visible.
How long do the results last?
The results of an eyelid lift can last for a very long time, usually between five and ten years. However, factors such as the patient's age, genetics, sun exposure and smoking influence the longevity of the results. To ensure that you can benefit from the results of an eyelid lift for as long as possible, you should maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid sun exposure and smoking.
What are the risks associated with an eyelid lift?
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks and possible complications associated with an eyelid lift. Bruising and swelling can occur after the operation and usually last for a few days or weeks. A combination of cool compresses and rest can help to minimise swelling and bruising. Although infections are rare, they are a possible complication of any surgical procedure.
Eyelid lifting can result in scars, but these are usually barely visible and fade over time. In rare cases, undesirable changes to the eyelid may occur, such as asymmetry or difficulty closing the eye completely. There is also a risk of temporary problems with vision, although most vision problems after an eyelid lift are temporary and disappear over time. In rare cases, allergic reactions to anaesthetics or other medications may occur.
In the event of complications after an eyelid lift, it is important to contact Dr Matiasek immediately. He will examine your symptoms and complaints and can prescribe anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics or ointments if necessary.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to an eyelid lift?
The answer to this is clearly yes. There are several non-surgical alternatives to eyelid surgery that are less invasive and require shorter recovery times.
Botox injections
Botulinum toxin, also known as Botox, can be used to relax the muscles around the eyes and reduce wrinkles and crow's feet. This can be an alternative to an eyelid lift, especially if the wrinkles and sagging are mainly in the eyebrow area and around the eyes.
Filler injections
Fillers such as hyaluronic acid or collagen can be used to restore volume under the eyes and reduce dark circles or bags under the eyes.
Morpheus8, microneedling, vampire lifting
Dr Matiasek can also perform a Morpheus 8 treatment, microneedling or a vampire lift to tighten the skin around the eyes and reduce wrinkles and crow's feet. Microneedling can also help to reduce pigmentation and discolouration and improve the appearance of the skin.
Lecturer Dr Matiasek will advise you extensively on which treatment method is most suitable for you. Whilst non-surgical alternatives can be less invasive, they can also be less effective and may require more frequent treatments to achieve the desired result. It is therefore always important to weigh up the pros and cons of surgical and non-surgical methods.
Advantages and disadvantages of surgical and non-surgical methods
Surgical methods (eyelid lift)
Advantages:
- Can achieve significant results and dramatically improve the appearance of the eye area
- Results are long-lasting and usually do not require repeated treatment
- Can also help to improve the field of vision if drooping of the upper eyelid impairs vision
Disadvantages:
- Is an invasive treatment that requires a certain recovery time and can involve risks and complications such as pain, swelling, bruising, infection or scarring
- May not be suitable for everyone, especially people with certain health conditions who should avoid anaesthesia or major surgery
- Can be expensive and not covered by health insurance
Non-surgical methods (Botox injections, filler injections, laser treatments):
Advantages:
- Are usually less invasive and do not require a longer recovery time
- Can often be performed on an outpatient basis without the need for anaesthesia
- Can be an effective treatment for milder eyelid problems or to improve skin quality
Disadvantages:
- Results are usually more subtle than with surgery and may not last as long
- May require more frequent treatments to achieve the desired results
- May be associated with some risks and side effects, including pain, swelling, redness or infection
- Can be expensive, especially if multiple treatments are required
Eyelid lift vs eyebrow lift
An eyelid lift and an eyebrow lift are two different types of aesthetic procedures in the eye area.
An eyelid lift is an operation in which excess tissue and skin is surgically removed from the upper and/or lower eyelids to achieve a firmer and younger appearance in the eye area. The procedure can also help to eliminate visual impairment caused by drooping of the upper eyelid. During the procedure, incisions are made in the natural crease of the eyelid or below the lash line to remove excess tissue. An eyelid lift can be performed on either side of the face, with recovery time usually taking around one week to two weeks.
An eyebrow lift or forehead lift is a procedure in which the tissue and muscles in the area of the eyebrows or forehead are lifted to make the region appear firmer. The aim is to lift the eyebrows, which can also even out imbalances (asymmetries). Wrinkles and sagging in the forehead and eyebrow area can be reduced with a forehead lift. There are different types of eyebrow lifts, including the open eyebrow lift, the endoscopic eyebrow lift or the direct and indirect eyebrow lift. The recovery time is usually two to three weeks.
While an eyelid lift mainly aims to remove excess skin around the eyelids, an eyebrow lift focuses on lifting the area around the eyebrows and forehead. Both procedures can improve the appearance of the eye area, but different methods or even a combination of procedures may be required or desired depending on the initial condition of the patient and the desired outcome.
Which method is suitable for whom depends on the patient's individual needs, preferences and goals. Generally, an eyelid lift is a good option for people with droopy eyelids or excess skin around the eyelids, while a brow lift is suitable for people who want a lift of the eyebrows and forehead. Dr Matiasek will be happy to advise you on the best option for your individual situation.
How much does an eyelid lift and eyebrow lift cost and what is covered by health insurance?
The cost of an eyelid lift with Dr Matiasek may vary depending on the type of procedure and the extent of the treatment. If there are medical reasons (e.g. visual field restriction), the costs may be covered by your private supplementary health insurance. Dr Matiasek will be happy to provide you with detailed information about the costs involved during your consultation.
With a few exceptions, an eyelid lift or eyebrow lift is performed for aesthetic reasons, which is why the costs are not normally covered by health insurance. However, there are some cases in which the health insurance company will cover the costs of the operation if it is necessary for medical reasons, such as ptosis (drooping eyelid), which impairs the field of vision. In such cases, it is important to find out from the health insurance company before the operation whether or not the costs will be covered.
Eyelid lifting is an effective solution for restoring youthfulness and freshness to the eye area. Lecturer Dr Matiasek is available to answer your questions and help you find the best treatment option for your individual needs. Make an appointment today to get more information and start on the path to a younger, more revitalised look around your eyes.
