Eyelid Lifting San Francisco | Blepharoplasty & UPNEEQ
Eyelid Lifting in San Francisco: Restoring a Bright, Youthful Gaze
The search for eyelid lifting in San Francisco often starts with a glance in the mirror—a realization that tired, heavy eyelids are overshadowing your expression and making you look more fatigued than you feel. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about reclaiming the alert, vibrant look that reflects how you feel inside. Whether caused by aging, genetics, or muscle weakness, drooping eyelids can be addressed. Let’s get into the science of eyelid lifting, from the non-surgical innovation of UPNEEQ to the transformative precision of blepharoplasty surgery performed by Dr. Corey Maas, and explore how we can help you achieve a more rested and youthful appearance.
Understanding the Difference: Ptosis vs. Dermatochalasis
Many people use the terms “droopy eyelids” generally, but there are distinct conditions with different solutions.
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Ptosis (pronounced “toe-sis”): This is a condition where the upper eyelid itself droops over the eye due to a weakness or stretching of the levator muscle that lifts it. It can happen to people of all ages and requires surgical correction to tighten the muscle and restore proper lid position.
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Dermatochalasis: This refers to an excess of sagging, wrinkled skin on the upper or lower eyelids that can create a heavy appearance and even obscure vision. This is typically addressed by removing the excess skin and fat.
A comprehensive consultation is key to diagnosing your specific condition and recommending the right treatment path ahead.
Your Eyelid Lifting Options: From Non-Surgical to Surgical
We address a wide variety of eyelid conditions through both innovative non-surgical solutions and advanced surgical techniques.
Non-Surgical Solution:
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UPNEEQ® (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) 0.1%: This is a prescription eyedrop used to treat acquired ptosis, or low-lying lids, in adults. It works by stimulating the Müller’s muscle to temporarily lift the upper eyelid, providing a more open and alert eye appearance without surgery. Results can be seen quickly and last for several hours, making it an excellent option for those seeking a temporary solution or who are not ready for surgery.
Surgical Solutions (Blepharoplasty):
Dr. Corey Maas performs eyelid lift surgery to address both functional and aesthetic concerns. The procedures involve precise incisions made in the natural folds of the skin, making any scarring virtually invisible once healed.
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Upper Blepharoplasty: Addresses drooping upper eyelids by removing excess skin and, if needed, fat. This can resolve visual obstruction and create a more alert, youthful look.
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Lower Blepharoplasty: Improves under-eye bags, puffiness, and wrinkles. In some cases, a transconjunctival approach (with an incision inside the lower lid) can be used to remove fat without any visible external scar.
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Combining Procedures with Ptosis Repair: For patients with both excess skin and weakened eyelid muscles, Dr. Maas can combine a standard blepharoplasty with a specialized ptosis repair procedure to tighten the levator muscle, addressing both the aesthetic appearance and functional aspects of eyelid drooping.
| Treatment | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| UPNEEQ® | Mild, temporary ptosis lift | Non-invasive, quick results, no downtime |
| Upper Blepharoplasty | Excess upper eyelid skin, visual obstruction | Permanent correction, dramatic rejuvenation |
| Lower Blepharoplasty | Under-eye bags, puffiness | Restores smooth, refreshed under-eye contour |
| Ptosis Repair | Weak eyelid muscle causing drooping | Improves both function and field of vision |
What to Expect During Your Eyelid Lift Journey
The process begins with a consultation with Dr. Corey Maas, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon renowned for his expertise in eyelid surgery. He will carefully assess your eyelid anatomy, discuss your goals, and determine whether a surgical or non-surgical approach is best for you.
If you choose surgery, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, often complemented by IV sedation for optimal patient comfort. Recovery involves some bruising and swelling that subsides over 7-14 days, with final results revealing a brighter, more refreshed appearance that lasts for years.
Is an Eyelid Lift Right for You?
If heavy, drooping eyelids are making you look tired or affecting your vision, you may be an ideal candidate. The only way to know for sure is to have a professional evaluation. Dr. Maas can help you understand the difference between the conditions and recommend the most effective path to restore a bright, confident gaze.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to explore your eyelid lifting options? Schedule a consultation at our San Francisco clinic with Dr. Corey Maas to discover your path to a more youthful and alert appearance.
