When patients express concern about heavy or tired-looking eyes, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi takes a thoughtful approach to determine the most effective surgical solution. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation, Dr. Tansavatdi emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of eyelid heaviness because the solution may not always be what patients expect.
What Does Upper Eyelid Surgery Address?
Upper eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is designed to remove excess skin that droops over the eyes. For many patients, this skin creates a feeling of heaviness or even visual obstruction. When there’s enough space between the brow hairs and the upper eyelid crease, eyelid surgery alone can successfully lift and open the eyes, giving a refreshed, more awake appearance. Dr. Tansavatdi often recommends this approach when the brow remains in a youthful position and the heaviness is due primarily to redundant skin.
When Is a Brow Lift Needed Instead?
A brow lift is the procedure of choice when the eyebrows themselves have begun to descend with age, particularly on the outer corners—a concern known as lateral hooding. In these cases, lifting the brow restores the natural arch, smooths out forehead heaviness, and improves upper eyelid definition. Dr. Tansavatdi explains that attempting upper eyelid surgery in the presence of a low brow can worsen the heaviness, making the eyes appear more tired rather than more open.
The Importance of Facial Measurements
Dr. Tansavatdi evaluates each patient by measuring the distance between the brow hairs and the eyelid crease. If that space is too small, removing skin alone may create an unnatural look. In contrast, if the distance is sufficient, eyelid surgery can be performed safely without compromising brow position. This careful assessment ensures that each patient receives a tailored surgical plan that supports natural, harmonious results.
When Both Procedures Are Combined
Some patients present with both a descended brow and excess eyelid skin. In these cases, Dr. Tansavatdi may recommend combining a brow lift with upper eyelid surgery to achieve the best outcome. A brow lift repositions the brows and reduces hooding, while eyelid surgery removes any remaining loose skin. Together, these procedures restore definition to the eyes and create a more youthful, rested appearance.
Ultimately, choosing between upper eyelid surgery and a brow lift—or combining both—is a decision that should be guided by an experienced facial plastic surgeon. With her surgical expertise and attention to facial anatomy, Dr. Tansavatdi ensures every treatment plan is as individualized and precise as the patients she cares for.