Upper and lower eyelid reduction�(blepharoplasty) is the second commonest cosmetic procedure performed by BAAPS members in the UK last year. A total of 5,779 blepharoplasties were performed, an increase of 6.2% from the year before. This is reflective of my own practice where a total of 129 such operations were performed last year, an increase of 10% from the previous year. The reason for it's popularity is firstly the ubiquity of eyelid ageing and secondly, the powerful effect that eyelid rejuvenation has on improving a person's overall appearance. I predict that this figure will continue to rise following on the trend of previous years, but there will be an even steeper rise in the non-surgical blepharoplasty - the "Madonna Lift"The "Madonna Lift" was pioneered by Dr. Bruce Katz of New York. The procedure utilises the Smartxide fractional CO2 laser that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and lifts the eyebrow for a younger look to the eye. We have had the Smartxide fractional CO2 laser for a year and have found it invaluable for a variety of functions, including skin resurfacing and the treatment of acne scars. By focusing on the eyelids and the rest of the eye area, we can now give our patients a younger and fresher look to the eye. Watch this video link for a demonstration of the "Madonna Lift" by Dr. Bruce Katz.Fractional lasers differ from other lasers used in cosmetic procedures. Instead of sending out a single, steady beam of light, the CO2 fractional laser emits light in columns. The columns address specific locations of skin, leaving surrounding areas untouched. This promotes collagen production, which in turn tightens up the skin in the area to make the eyes look more open. At the same time, skin damage is limited, so healing takes place much more quickly.The "Madonna Lift" reduces the appearance of dark circles and wrinkles around the eye, while tightening the upper and lower lids to alleviate a drooping eyelid and other aesthetic issues that lead to the eyes appearing older and tired all the time. Before the procedure is done, the patient is given an eye shield to protect the eye and a topical numbing cream is applied to the eyelids. Treatments are very quick, only a few minutes at a time, and three to six sessions every three weeks are generally required to achieve the desired resultsBecause there is no anaesthesia used, recovery is relatively quick and easy. Since damage to skin tissue is also minimised, patients experience little discomfortduring and after the procedure. While some redness and puffiness should be expected for a day or two afterward, the patient may immediately apply makeup after the procedure to disguise the discolouration. We predict that results from the procedure may last as long as five years, although the treatment is still too new to accurately gauge long-term benefits. To prolong the effects, patients can also opt for an anti- wrikle injections soon after the procedure is complete.The "Madonna Lift" is a relatively non-invasive, painless procedure that can offer younger looking eyes after just a few treatment sessions. If you are interested in the "Madonna Lift", �contact us for a consultation to see if you are suited for the procedure.
