As we age, sometimes we are surprised when the signs of aging begin to show up in the mirror, in our social media posts, or during those ubiquitous video meetings. However, there are several ways to manage your appearance as you age, starting with something known as “hooded eyes.” Here, the upper eyelids look heavy, leading our friends and family to ask if we are tired or even angry.
Many patients who contact The Maryland Institute of Plastic Surgery are embarrassed about the look of hooded eyes, but are hesitant about undergoing eyelid surgery. While they realize that this surgery will remove excess skin and fat, giving them a more youthful, open expression, they often ask: Can a non-surgical alternative treatment like BOTOX® provide the desired effect?
It’s not uncommon for people interested in eyelid rejuvenation to compare the two most popular treatment options – BOTOX® and eyelid surgery – hoping these two procedures can achieve identical results.
What Are the Similarities and Differences Between BOTOX® and Eyelid Surgery?
Both techniques achieve the outcome of younger-looking eyes. However, this is where the similarity between the two ends.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is cosmetic eyelid surgery performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, and can have a stunning effect that refreshes the entire face. This surgery makes the eyes look younger by trimming excess upper eyelid tissue that has become saggy due to collagen decline and sun damage. Similarly, the tissue beneath the eyes can also become loose and puffy due to fat pads that have slipped out of place over time. Through small incisions, blepharoplasty can reposition or reduce fatty tissue and tighten skin, producing a smooth surface that no longer has that heavy look, resulting in a friendlier, more rested appearance.
BOTOX®
BOTOX® injections do not apply to the eyelids themselves, but they can affect the way the eyes look. They work by relaxing the muscles around the eyes, especially those at the inner edges of the eyebrows, to smooth frown lines and elevate the eyebrows slightly, reducing any downward pull.
Based on this comparison, we can see that blepharoplasty and BOTOX® work in entirely different ways and achieve varied objectives. As such, they are excellent when used as a combination in facial rejuvenation.
How Long Will My Eyelid Surgery and BOTOX® Results Last?
If you’re considering these procedures, remember that blepharoplasty surgery results last between 10 to 15 years, BOTOX® injections only last between three to six months and require repeat treatments to maintain the results.
Plan Your New, Fresh Look in Baltimore or Columbia, Maryland
There are benefits to receiving both blepharoplasty and BOTOX®. Together, these two approaches to eyelid rejuvenation achieve outstanding results. To schedule a consultation to learn more about the combination of blepharoplasty and BOTOX® and discuss optimal treatment options, schedule an appointment at The Maryland Institute of Plastic Surgery or call (410) 744-0900 today!