Blepharoplasty, also referred to as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. As people age, muscles weaken, and the skin around the eyes stretches. When this occurs, a person may appear sad or tired. With eyelid surgery, muscles can be tightened, puffy under-eye bags can be eliminated, and excess skin and fat can be removed. Known as one of the most common facial cosmetic surgeries, eyelid surgery is an option for both men and women.
There are several gender differences when it comes to deciding to have surgery. While women may seek this surgery for beauty reasons, men may opt for surgery to maintain a youthful and competitive appearance to achieve success in the workplace. Many women choose eyelid surgery during their 30s and 50s, while most men receive a male blepharoplasty in their 50s to 60s.
Reasons Men Choose Eyelid Surgery
When receiving eyelid surgery, patients may inform the doctor of reasons why they want the procedure. While some of the reasons men choose eyelid surgery overlap with reasons women select this type of surgery, there are slight differences. For instance, both sexes are surrounded by frequent propaganda in the media that portrays unrealistic beauty standards.
Men and women fall victim to this, seeking out multiple surgeries. Low self-esteem and a negative body image may lead men and women to eyelid surgery. Men may be more concerned about wrinkles and frown lines because their appearance may not convey confidence or authority in the workplace.
Eyelid Surgery for Men
Some of the reasons why men choose eyelid surgery include the following:
- Eyelid heaviness in one or both eyes
- Frown lines
- Wrinkles
- Tired-looking appearance
- Social embarrassment
- Desire to look younger
- Preparation for marriage
- Maintaining a confident appearance
- Preventing further sagging of the eyelids
For men, eyelid surgery is mostly for functional and medical reasons rather than cosmetic ones. Despite different motivations, the process of eyelid surgery remains similar for men and women. However, men may present with more severe eyelid drooping. This can create peripheral vision deficits. Because of this, men opt for surgery to better their vision and relieve the heaviness of the eyelid that may accompany the droopiness.
The Recovery Process
Male eyelid surgery typically lasts 1-2 hours on average. Local anesthesia may be used during this outpatient procedure. You can return to work within 7-10 days. The recovery process is not long, and by following guidelines instructed by your doctor, it can be shortened. The recovery process consists of:
- Using an ice-cold compress, over-the-counter pain relievers, and eye drops to prevent bruising, tightness, and temporary dryness
- Expecting swelling and bruising to slowly subside over the course of a week
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Managing symptoms such as subtle, residual swelling
- Refrain from a full exercise routine until 2 to 3 weeks after surgery.
The recovery process for men and women is similar. For those experiencing droopy eyelids or a heaviness to the eyelids, consider reaching out to an eye doctor to determine your treatment options.
Find Treatment Today
When it comes to blemishes or imperfections of the face, individuals can sometimes feel insecure. This is why many opt for eyelid surgery. Others may experience heaviness in the eyelids. If you experience symptoms that affect your eyesight, reach out to the Oculofacial Studio.
Offering surgery options for men and women, we provide a wide range of treatments. Speak with our oculofacial plastic surgeon and learn more about the many options to consider. During your consultation, our experts will assess the severity of your condition and listen to your needs. Contact us today to learn more.