Map of Toronto Location

Toronto Office
Dr. Richard Rival
501-1881 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON M4S 3C4
Phone: (866) 229-3223
Outside Ontario: (905) 830-6711
Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Map of Newmarket Location

Newmarket Office
Dr. Richard Rival
712 Davis Drive, Suite 101A
Newmarket, ON L3Y 8C3
Phone: (905) 830-6711
Outside Ontario: (905) 830-6711
Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Functional vs Cosmetic Blepharoplasty

Functional vs Cosmetic Eyelift

The eyes are the window to your age. No matter how healthy a lifestyle you maintain, signs of aging will always show in and around your eyes. Crows feet and droopy eyelids catch up with everyone.

As a result, blepharoplasty (eyelift) is one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in Toronto. It allows people to reduce visible signs of aging around the eyes, for a natural, more youthful appearance.

Although eyelid surgery has a significant impact on your apparent age, aesthetics aren’t the only reason for blepharoplasty.

Functional Blepharoplasty

Functional blepharoplasty is eyelid surgery with a medical purpose. Typically, this involves impaired vision, either from a droopy eyelid obstructing your view or preventing you from wearing prescription eyewear. In some instances, loose eyelid skin can cause headaches or eye strain.

A functional blepharoplasty addresses these issues by removing the loose skin, “lifting” the eyelid and restoring normal vision. Vision impairment can be caused by genetics, being born with ptosis, or simply the effects of age. 

Cosmetic Blepharoplasty

A cosmetic eyelift is performed for the express purpose of improving aesthetics. Signs of aging such as puffy bags, dark shadows, thinning skin, and sagging eyelids can all be addressed. The result of cosmetic blepharoplasty is more rested, youthful-looking eyes.

Unlike functional, cosmetic blepharoplasty is eligible for surgical and/or non-surgical procedures.

Surgical Eyelift

Surgical eyelifts are the traditional approach. They are effective and permanent solutions for sagging and aging eyes. This technique surgically removes the excess or loose skin from the eyelids.

Non-Surgical Eyelift

Non-surgical blepharoplasty is usually recommended only for cosmetic use. Different techniques are available, such as facial muscle relaxers like Botox and Dysport. As well, dermal fillers can be placed in the hollow below the eyelid to improve the appearance. 

Crossover

Often blepharoplasties are performed for both functional and cosmetic purposes. Plastic surgeons will usually test your vision before recommending a cosmetic blepharoplasty. It’s fairly common for people to be unaware that droopy eyelids are impairing their vision. 

If the vision is obstructed, a functional eyelift is a better option. In addition to improving visibility. It may also allow you to receive insurance coverage.

Brow Lift

In some instances, an eyelift is not the answer. Patients sometimes mistake the effects of a sagging brow for a drooping eyelid. If the brow skin is too loose, it can make the eyelid appear to have excess skin.

As well, brow lifts and eyelifts are often performed together. A consultation with a plastic surgeon is the best way to determine which option is best for you.

Schedule A Blepharoplasty Consultation in Toronto

Are you considering functional or cosmetic eyelid surgery in Toronto? Dr. Richard Rival is a double board-certified facial plastic surgery. His work has earned him a great reputation with patients seeking blepharoplasty and other cosmetic surgeries. Your goals and health are Dr. Rival’s top priority in delivering excellent functional and cosmetic results.

Schedule a blepharoplasty consultation in Toronto.

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