Face Cosmetic Surgery

Overview

Facial surgery works with millimetres, and small differences in planning show on a face that people look at every day. Some procedures are performed for functional reasons — heavy upper eyelids that obstruct vision, for instance — and others for appearance. Each is planned around the individual's anatomy, eyelid and skin quality, and the specific change being sought.

Common procedures

• Double eyelid surgery — formation of an upper eyelid crease, by suture or incision technique, with height and shape planned to suit the eye rather than to a fixed template.
• Eyebag surgery — treatment of lower eyelid fullness by repositioning or removing fat, through the conjunctiva or through a lash-line incision where skin also needs tightening.
• Medial epicanthoplasty — adjustment of the inner corner of the eye, often combined with double eyelid surgery to balance the eye's proportions.
• Renuvion — helium plasma and radiofrequency energy delivered beneath the skin to tighten mild laxity of the lower face, jawline and neck, usually combined with liposuction of the area.

Consultation & planning

Assessment covers eyelid anatomy and levator function, existing asymmetry — which is present in almost every face and is pointed out before surgery rather than after — skin quality, dry eye symptoms, and general health. Photographs are taken for planning. Where a concern is better addressed non-surgically, or is better left alone, that advice is given.

Recovery

Eyelid surgery involves swelling and bruising for one to two weeks, with sutures removed at five to seven days; most patients feel socially comfortable at around two weeks, though fine swelling and a slightly high or firm crease settle over three to six months. Renuvion involves compression and one to two weeks of swelling, with tightening continuing to develop over three to six months.

Risks & considerations

Risks include bleeding, infection, visible or asymmetric scars, a crease that is too high, too low or uneven, over- or under-correction, dry eyes, temporary blurred vision, and lower eyelid retraction after eyebag surgery. Revision surgery is sometimes needed and is harder than the original operation. Energy-based tightening carries risks of burn, contour irregularity and nerve irritation, and produces modest change — it does not substitute for a lift. Surgery improves contour and proportion; it does not stop ageing.

This page provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Suitability, benefits, limitations and risks of any procedure can only be determined at a medical consultation.