Antiaging treatments have become the path to aging gracefully, and that path seems to expand all the time. It’s great to have choices that help us achieve our beauty goals. At the same time, though, more choices can make it more difficult to determine which option is “best.” We’re here to help our patients find what is best for them, even if it may not be “best” for everyone. Here, we discuss how BOTOX and blepharoplasty stack up for addressing the issue of aging eyelids.
BOTOX® and Blepharoplasty: Same Goal, Different Approach
Ultimately, BOTOX and blepharoplasty achieve very similar goals, although we must say that blepharoplasty is a bit more comprehensive. More on that in a minute. Each approach to eye rejuvenation is proven and harbors very few risks. Both have a high satisfaction rate. Aside from outcomes, they are completely different.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic eyelid surgery that works by repositioning and removing the delicate, superficial tissue around the eyes. To have blepharoplasty does not mean that the entire eye area is lifted. A surgeon may tighten up either the upper or the lower eyelids based on need. In both situations, incisions are placed in hidden places like the natural crease or the lash line, so scarring is not visible. While the effects of eyelid surgery are immediately noticeable, patients need about a week for the majority of their postoperative swelling and bruising to go away before they go back to work and other light activities. Blepharoplasty doesn’t stop the aging process, but it can make the eyes look younger for many years.
BOTOX
BOTOX injections are widely praised for their power against lines and wrinkles in the upper third of the face. This product can smooth away crow’s feet, frown lines, and more. It is not used directly on the eyes but can have a positive effect on the upper eyelids that have become hooded due to laxity and a descending brow. The way that BOTOX can do this is through injections in the muscles that are pulling the brow downward. The decrease in muscle tension can release the skin below the eyebrows to lie more smoothly and look tighter. BOTOX does not work in every situation of upper eyelid hooding, only the heaviness that is created by brow descent. To sustain the effects of treatment, injections need to be repeated every 4 to 6 months.
Our eyes indicate our liveliness and personality. To explore the benefits of BOTOX or blepharoplasty, schedule a visit with Dr. Trussler in our Austin office at (512) 450-1077.