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Is Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetics Possible?

Is Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetics Possible?

Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetics

Eyelid surgeries are always among the top three most performed aesthetic surgeries. In the right hands, surgery can yield very satisfying results and heal without issues, but not everyone is open to surgical interventions that require a healing process. In some cases, eyelid problems can be mild enough to be treated with non-surgical methods.

Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetic Methods

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards treating the eye area with non-surgical methods, and these techniques have seen a significant surge in demand. The most commonly used non-surgical eyelid aesthetic methods include:

  • Botox
  • Fillers
  • Radiofrequency
  • Ultrasound
  • PRP
  • Laser
  • Chemical peeling
  • Plasma therapy
  • Thread lifting

The question arises: how realistic are these treatments? Most importantly, can anyone achieve an aesthetic appearance with these methods without undergoing surgery, as claimed online?

Is Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetic Really Possible?

It should first be stated that nothing can replace surgery in patients who require it. In other words, it is not possible to achieve results equivalent to surgery with the above-mentioned methods in a patient who requires surgery.

However, some deformities exist that even surgery cannot achieve perfect results, and experienced surgeons use non-surgical techniques in these cases. The most common of these techniques are botulinum toxin and filler applications.

Botulinum toxin, developed by American ophthalmologist Dr. Alan Scott in the early 1970s, was initially used to treat strabismus and involuntary muscle contractions around the eyes. Over the years, it was noticed that patients who received treatment for muscle contractions on one side of their face did not have deep lines on that side, and that side remained younger. This observation led to a breakthrough in facial rejuvenation starting in the 1980s.

Botulinum toxin, applied millions of times up until today, is an indispensable aid in oculoplastic surgery. It can be used in combination with surgeries or as a standalone method to rejuvenate the eye area and especially shape the eyebrows.

In cases of dark circles and hollows under the eyes, non-surgical eyelid fillers, which require no surgery, are advantageous. The filler material comes in a pre-filled syringe, and after a brief application in the examination chair, the person can return to their normal activities. Fillers can also correct hollows in the upper eyelid and tighten drooping eyelids by plumping the eyebrow tissue.

We also frequently use non-invasive, non-surgical methods like radiofrequency, ultrasound, and dermaroller for the eye area. These treatments are not alternatives to surgery, but they are successful in cases of mild drooping and wrinkles that do not require surgery. Similarly, thread lifting techniques, popularized under the term "spider web lifting" and currently marketed under various commercial names, along with laser or chemical skin resurfacing, and plasma device applications, are not alternatives to surgery but rather supportive treatments.

Preventive, Protective Non-Surgical Eyelid Aesthetics

All of these non-surgical eyelid aesthetic treatments offer preventive and protective treatment options for individuals who do not yet require surgery and must be repeated at regular intervals. For suitable patients, these methods have advantages such as not requiring a healing process or a short healing time, minimal or no bruising, no need for stitches, and no risk of scarring.

In summary, it is possible to achieve beautiful results in eyelid aesthetics through both surgical and non-surgical methods. The doctor who will conduct your preliminary evaluation should be well-versed in both surgical and non-surgical techniques to offer the most suitable treatment for you.

In cases where surgery is necessary, opting for alternative methods may lead to waste of time and money, while attempting to solve problems that can be handled without surgery through surgery would not be wise. In many cases, a successful eyelid aesthetic surgery supported by non-surgical methods yields the best result.

Update Date: 16.02.2025
Altuğ Çetinkaya, MD, FEBO
Editor
Altuğ Çetinkaya, MD, FEBO
Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Surgery
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