If your eyes look more tired than you feel, you’re not alone. According to Pasadena, CA plastic surgeon Lily Lee, MD, more people in their 40s and even their 30s are opting for eyelid surgery to refresh their appearance. “Many patients come in saying they don’t feel as tired as they look,” she says. “They want a subtle but effective change, and eyelid surgery delivers just that.”
The New Approach to Eyelid Lifts
Gone are the days of waiting until later in life for an eye lift. “I see younger patients coming in for a conservative approach in their 30s or 40s,” Dr. Lee explains. “This allows them to enjoy their results for decades and, if needed, have a minor touch-up later.”
One of the most common concerns is looking overdone or wide-eyed. Dr. Lee reassures patients that a well-executed eyelid lift won’t cause that look. “That’s usually the result of a browlift, not an eyelid lift,” she says. “With proper technique, the eyes look naturally refreshed, not surprised.”
Why Eyelid Surgery Is Gaining Popularity
Dr. Lee attributes the rise in eyelid surgery to a few key factors. The procedure requires minimal downtime, with most patients functional within a few days. It’s quick, taking about 20 minutes per eye and can often be done in-office. Unlike temporary fixes, an eyelid lift removes excess skin for years of improvement.
Another reason more people are opting for surgery is that nonsurgical treatments often require multiple sessions and extended healing time, sometimes making surgery the more efficient choice. “Some of my patients have tried skin-tightening treatments, only to deal with weeks of redness and swelling,” she explains. “With surgery, they skip that hassle.”
The Best Complementary Treatments
While surgery delivers the most dramatic and lasting results, Dr. Lee says some treatments can help maintain and refine the outcome. Neurotoxins like Botox Cosmetic soften crow’s feet, while microneedling and platelet-rich plasma improve skin texture. Fillers can restore lost volume, but Dr. Lee emphasizes they should play a supporting role, not the main fix.
Is a Browlift Necessary?
Patients often ask if they should combine their eyelid lift with a browlift. Dr. Lee’s answer? Not always. “Browlifts are much more complex in terms of recovery and technical difficulty,” she explains. “If it’s not necessary, I don’t recommend it.” However, for older patients who previously had eyelid surgery, she says a browlift might be a better choice than a second eyelid procedure.
The Takeaway
Eyelid surgery is no longer just for older patients. More people are choosing it earlier in life for a subtle, refreshed look. With minimal downtime, a quick procedure time and long-lasting results, it’s becoming a go-to for those who want a natural, youthful appearance without the hassle of temporary fixes.
