Surgery is currently the preferred option for achieving permanent and effective results, but potential complications deter patients. There is a growing trend among individuals to seek less invasive, non-surgical, effective, and safe procedures for eyelid treatment. Over the past several years, the demand for procedures aimed at rejuvenating the upper third of the face and the periocular region has increased. In this regard, blepharoplasty remains one of the most frequently performed procedures worldwide.
According to Inkwood Research, the global eyelid surgery blepharoplasty market is expected to garner $7132.97 million by 2032, projecting a CAGR of 6.90% during 2024-2032. Blepharoplasty involves the surgical repair or reconstruction of the upper and/or lower eyelids. It addresses excess eyelid skin, lid laxity, ptosis, orbital septum issues, and orbital fat. The procedure aims to correct signs of aging in the periorbital region and improve the appearance of unaesthetic lids.
Global Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty Market: New-Age Procedures
Non-surgical procedures for treating the periocular region include new-age techniques that rejuvenate the entire area, targeting volume enhancement and the reduction of unwanted localized fat deposits. These methods go beyond traditional surgical approaches to address redundant skin or fat pads. Emerging techniques such as hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, lasers, deoxycholic acid, and plasma exeresis are becoming increasingly popular, offering effective and appealing options for aesthetic eyelid treatments.
This blog examines the new-age procedures in place for eyelid surgery blepharoplasty.
- Lasers
One of the most characteristic aspects of eyelid aging is represented by the simultaneous excess and loss of elasticity of the skin. Laser treatment has been shown to provide interesting options to address these morphological and functional changes in the lid. The objective of laser treatment is to ensure a contraction of the skin, which can give rise to a smoother and toned appearance. There are several different laser technologies that can be used for the treatment of the eyelid region, which include Ablative CO2 laser, erbium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er: YAG) laser, fractional ablative CO2 laser, fractionated erbium: YAG laser, and non-ablative fractional laser.
Fractionated ablative laser treatments target water and cause selective photothermolysis. The central differences between ablative and non-ablative lasers are the layers of the skin affected, laser dosage, and efficacy, which tends to be greater for ablative ones. Ablative lasers usually present a longer recovery time and involve greater risks. The selection of the appropriate laser device is fundamental and should be based on the morphological and functional characteristics of the areas to be treated, the clinical needs of the patient, and the postprocedural recovery time.
With regard to possible complications related to laser treatments, the incidence generally tends to be low and minor. Patients should be informed of the possible onset of edema, swelling, hypo or hyper-pigmentation, infections (bacterial or viral), and visible scarring (that can give rise to ectropion if severe).
- Plasma Exeresis
When a patient declines a surgical approach to address the signs of eyelid aging, the plasma exeresis technique can be suggested as a viable alternative. This method is becoming an increasingly appealing non-surgical option for treating dermatochalasis. It involves a handpiece that generates ionized energy from an air gap, causing superficial tissue heating without direct contact. This controlled and limited thermal damage transforms solid tissue into a gaseous state, creating mild coagulation, which leads to increased collagen production and skin contraction.
Plasma technology is regarded as a safe and effective non-surgical option. The literature reports only a few minor complications, including delayed healing, bacterial skin infection, herpes simplex virus infection, tissue scarring, and the most common, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers offer an alternative to surgical procedures for various aesthetic and functional purposes, including upper and lower blepharoplasty, addressing tear-trough deformities in the lower lid, lagophthalmos, orbital volume deficiencies, upper and lower eyelid retraction, and eyelid malposition. Fillers can be categorized based on the duration of their cosmetic effects, short-term (less than 3 months, e.g., bovine collagen), medium-term (3-12 months, e.g., hyaluronic acid), long-lasting (12-24 months, e.g., calcium hydroxyapatite, poly-L-lactic acid), and very long-lasting (e.g., PMMA, fat).
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Derivatives
HA derivatives are the most commonly used dermal fillers, primarily because they originate from a molecule that is naturally present in the human body, eliminating the need for allergy testing before use. These derivatives have a medium to long-lasting effect (6-12 months) due to their cross-linking with other chemicals, which prevents enzymatic biodegradation. Over the years, a variety of HA derivatives with different properties have been developed, leading to their widespread use in various surgical fields, including the management of periocular and orbital pathology.
Lagophthalmos, defined as the inability to fully close the eyelids, can occur due to paralysis of the orbicularis oculi (paralytic), retraction of the upper or lower lids (restrictive), or proptosis. This significant eyelid disorder can expose the cornea, resulting in severe dry eye syndrome and keratopathy. HA gel is an ideal treatment for lagophthalmos in patients who are not suitable for surgery or cannot tolerate an external weight on the lid. HA provides a flexible and temporary solution, making it suitable for treating reversible and non-permanent causes of lagophthalmos. (Source)
Future of Global Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty Market
The future of the global eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) market relies heavily on patient-centered care. Personalized treatment plans that address individual needs and expectations are essential. A thorough and transparent consultation process helps ensure patients have realistic expectations, leading to higher satisfaction rates. Whereas technological advancements, such as 3D imaging and computer simulations, continue to benefit the field by aiding in preoperative planning and outcome prediction. These tools enhance decision-making for both surgeons and patients. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning can assist surgeons in planning and performing personalized lower eyelid blepharoplasty procedures.
By Akhil Nair
FAQ
Recovery time can vary from person to person, but typically, patients can expect some swelling and bruising for the first week or two after surgery. Most people can resume normal activities within 7-10 days, although strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks. It’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure proper healing.
In blepharoplasty, incisions are typically made in the natural creases of the eyelids or inside the lower eyelid, which helps minimize visible scarring. Over time, any scars that do form tend to fade and become less noticeable. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon can also help minimize the risk of visible scarring.