What you need to know about an eye tuck
As we age, the skin around our eyes naturally loses elasticity and can begin to sag. Sometimes, this change can make you look older than you feel, and in some cases, sagging skin can even interfere with your vision.
What's an eye tuck?
This surgical procedure removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid to create a tighter lifted look. The goal of the surgery is to provide younger-looking eyes, reduce the look of puffiness, or correct sagging skin that impairs vision. Less frequently, people might get surgery on the lower eyelid to remove the appearance of "bags" under their eyes.
An eye tuck is most often an elective procedure, but if the surgery is done to improve vision, your insurance might cover some of the cost. However, your eye doctor must first perform tests to verify the surgery is essential.
How's the surgery performed?
Eyelid surgery is a relatively safe, simple procedure. The first step is to meet with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and determine whether you're a good candidate. As long as you're a healthy nonsmoker with no serious eye conditions, you'll likely be eligible. Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your eyelids and determine the best course of action -- even a small lift can make a big difference.
Next comes the procedure. Your surgeon will make an incision in the natural crease of your eyelid and then remove or redistribute fat and excess skin. The incision is closed with sutures, which are removed within a week. You should be able to go home soon after the procedure.
What is recovery like?
Immediately after surgery, you might have some bruising and swelling around your eyes. This is temporary and can be helped with cold compresses and lubricating ointment.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimated it takes 10-14 days to really see the results and feel more comfortable in public, but it still might take months to completely heal. During this time, you should take care to protect your eyes from the sun by wearing dark-tinted glasses. Your doctor can provide additional details on how to care for your eyes after surgery.
An eye tuck will give you brighter, younger-looking eyes (and long-term results), but it might not last forever. Your skin continues to lose elasticity as you age, which can change the look of your eyes over time. As with any cosmetic surgery, talk openly with your surgeon to make sure you have realistic goals and similar expectations for the results.
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