Peggy’s Blog: Wanting a Facelift
June 23rd, 2010
Hi, my name is Peggy. Why did I choose cosmetic surgery? I have been contemplating having a facelift for the past 3 years. I was a sun worshipper since I was 16, had my own personnel tanning bed in my home for 15 years, I was a heavy smoker and a yo-yo dieter. All of which contributed to me developing severe skin damage. I reached a point where I didn’t even want anyone to take my picture, unless it was with my camera where I could Photoshop it or a professional photo where they could edit the picture. I quit smoking in 2001, sold my tanning bed in 2003 and joined weight watchers in 2006. I have lost 43 pounds and have kept it off. I learned that keeping your weight off is basically living a healthy lifestyle, which includes exercise, no dieting is really required. So now, at 65 years old and a healthy weight of 115 pounds, I am ready to consider a facelift and look in the mirror with confidence.
Share this journey with me and check back to read about my experience.
Eyelid Nipntuck
June 21st, 2010
I frequently hear that nipntuck procedures for the eyes, called blepharoplasty are the best bang for the buck to freshen the appearance of the face. It is actually one of the surgeries that is popular with male patients, as well. It is a common belief that by removing eye bags, cosmetic surgery can restore a rested and more youthful appearance. I agree. Keen competition in the business world drives more executives to maintain this vibrant and healthy look. Repairing droopy eyelids for both men and women has an overall positive impact on patients’ quality of life.
The procedure involves the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both. It is a common misconception that liposuction is used for eyelid surgery. Upper eyelids require removal of skin and a small amount of fat. Lower eyelids have fat repositioning, followed by re-draping the skin and muscle. Only a very small amount of skin is removed from lower eyelids. Patients usually have minimal bruising and may return to work in as little as a few days. Makeup easily covers slight bruising during recovery, however it needs to be applied with a light touch.
I have a conservative approach to eye surgery and avoid the more severe “almond eye” look that seems to be popular in Hollywood. My patients simply look more rested, like they’ve just come back from vacation. Here in Minnesota, mid-summer is a likely time for that “cosmetic surgery vacation.” I usually see a slight uptick in requests for facial rejuvenation surgery, particularly eyelid surgery and facelifts.