What if Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty are Performed Simultaneously?

Middle-aged Plastic Surgery

What if Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty are Performed Simultaneously?

Some people ask if it is possible to have upper and lower blepharoplasty at the same time.

Of course, they can be done together. However, it is important to understand the potential effects beforehand.

Upper blepharoplasty is a general term for what is commonly known as double eyelid surgery, but it typically refers to senile upper blepharoplasty.
It is a procedure that removes sagging skin in elderly or middle-aged individuals and creates a double eyelid crease.

As shown in the illustration above, the sagging skin is excised, and a double eyelid is created to hide the resulting scar.
Lower blepharoplasty is a procedure that removes excess skin while simultaneously addressing under-eye fat protrusion and repositioning.

The surgery targets the bulging areas under the eyes.

However, if you look at the eye, there is a circular muscle called the Orbicularis oculi muscle.

This muscle is responsible for closing the eyes.
When performing surgery on both the upper and lower lids, the muscle tone of the orbicularis oculi may temporarily decrease.
This can lead to temporary issues such as the eyes not closing fully or dry eyes, but most cases are temporary, so you can rest assured.

If these symptoms persist, it is better to use artificial tears to prevent dry eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can upper and lower blepharoplasty be performed simultaneously?

Yes, they can be performed simultaneously. However, since both upper and lower skin are excised, it is advisable to be aware that the strength of the orbicularis oculi muscle, which closes the eye, may temporarily decrease before deciding on the surgery.

How is upper blepharoplasty performed?

It is performed by excising the sagging eyelid skin and creating a double eyelid. After excising the skin, a double eyelid line is created to naturally conceal the excised scar, and it is mainly performed by middle-aged or elderly individuals.

What is the main purpose of lower blepharoplasty?

The main purpose is to address the bulging fat under the eyes. It improves and repositions the sagging under-eye fat, while also excising excess skin to flatten the under-eye area.

What side effects can occur if both surgeries are performed together?

Temporary incomplete eye closure or dry eyes may occur. This is because the strength of the orbicularis oculi muscle, which closes the eye, is partially reduced when the upper and lower skin are excised. Most of these are temporary phenomena, so you don't need to worry too much.

What should I do if I experience dry eyes after surgery?

It is recommended to consistently use artificial tear eye drops. This greatly helps prevent dry eyes caused by incomplete eye closure due to reduced orbicularis oculi muscle strength and protects the eyes.