In recently-published research in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the Face Research Laboratory at the University of Aberdeen, reported that people judged happy faces more attractive if the face was looking directly at them. However, where it is looking does not affect the attractiveness of a disgusted face. The correlation between gaze direction and attractiveness is stronger for opposite-sex faces than it is for same-sex faces. This is yet another confirmation of the importance your eyes play in making you more attractive to members of the opposite sex, and shows how important it is to be able to direct your gaze freely and strongly at people if you want to make a good impression. However, sometimes our gaze becomes obscured by drooping or puffy eyelids, making it especially difficult to make the kind of furtive but direct eye contact essential to the initial stages of mating. If you are having difficulty connecting with the object of your desire, it might be time to consider eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). If we want to look young, attractive, and energetic, both to ourselves and to others, the eyes make all the difference.



Introduction to Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a delicate surgery that restores the appearance of skin and muscles around the eyes. It is far less invasive than the more extensive brow lift, but can achieve some of the same effects. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both, and is generally used to correct:

·Narrowed eyes

·Sagging eyelids

·Drooping eyelids

·Bags under the eyes

·Sight obstruction

·Tired appearance

Because studies like that conducted by the Face Research Laboratory show how important our eyes are in our daily interaction with others, these changes might be more than simply cosmetic. One possible explanation offered by the University of Aberdeen researchers is that a direct gaze signals attachment and interest, so an obscured gaze might be taken for boredom or loss of commitment. In addition, wide-open eyes are taken as a sign of trustworthiness, so brokers and salespeople may find the sagging of their eyelids makes them lose sales. The appearance of your eyes is not merely superficial: it is at the heart of our livelihood and our lives.

One false assumption people make is that eyelid surgery is only for older patients. However, much of our appearance is genetic, and the area around the eyes is one where genetics seems to play a dominant role. After all, there's no way to exercise away the fat in your puffy lids. In addition, some lifestyle factors such as smoking, overwork, and chronic lack of sleep can have a negative impact on the appearance of your eye area.

The Blepharoplasty Procedure

A skilled plastic surgeon knows how to do many different kinds of eyelid procedures and can determine a precise combination of techniques to address your particular eyelid issues. Some common areas of correction:

·Removing fat from upper and/or lower eyelids

·Removing skin from upper eyelids

·Transplanting fat from the eyelids to hollows under the eyes

·Correcting for weakness of eyelid muscles

·Smoothing skin below the eyes

For the surgery, you may be given a local anesthetic with a mild sedative or a general anesthetic, depending on whether you are having an extensive or limited procedure. Then the surgeon makes cuts to allow the separation of the skin from the underlying fat and muscle of the eyelids. For lower eyelid surgery, the cut is commonly made on the inside of the eyelid, whereas for upper eyelid surgery the cut is concealed in the eyelashes. Excess fat, sagging skin, and even muscle will be removed.

Blepharoplasty is a tightly targeted procedure and can be combined with any number of surgical and non-surgical treatments such as a brow lift, facelift, or the injection of filler materials.

Take Care to Heal Quickly

After your surgery, do exactly as your surgeon requests to minimize your recovery period. These instructions usually include:

·Use cold compresses to help reduce bruising and swelling.

·Keep your head elevated for several days.

·Avoid vigorous activity for about three weeks.

·You might want to avoid bright lights.

·Use only the eyedrops given or proscribed to you by the surgeon, in the event of dryness or itching

·Do not be concerned if your eyes are producing excess tears. This is relatively normal.

·Avoid getting your eyes wet, except with the prescription drops.

·Avoid anything that makes your eyes hurt, like wind or sun.

·Don't wear contact lenses for at least two weeks.

If you follow your surgeon's instructions, the procedure should heal in 2-3 weeks, and you'll find that your face will look much younger in appearance. As you begin to notice the change, you may find yourself hankering to get out and bat those younger-looking lids, but you'll find it's well worth the wait to avoid all vigorous activity for the full healing period.