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Introducing the non-surgical eyelid lift

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, but a new range of non-surgical alternatives is quickly gaining traction with patients and practitioners.

The plasma eyelid lift is one such solution for excessive skin in the upper eyelids. This treatment involves the application of energy to the skin of the eyelid and a section of the forehead using a plasma-generating device. In this case, plasma refers to a high-energy state where electrons become free from their respective atoms, not plasma in the blood.

At the Cosmetic Medicine Centre we use the Accor Plasma Pen to perform non-surgical eyelid lift treatments. This device operates 1mm above the skin’s surface to deliver the energy to the skin. Typically, one treatment session is required for effective lid lifting, although some, with more skin redundancy, may wish to have an additional treatment later.

In preparation for this treatment, local anaesthetic is injected along the length of the eyebrows to numb the part of the forehead and eyelid above and below this area. The Accor Plasma Pen is then used to direct dots of energy at the skin. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

After treatment, you will feel numb for 30 to 60 minutes because of the local anaesthetic. You may also feel a heat-like sensation. The treated area will be red with dot scabs. For most people, this will include most, but not all, of the upper eyelid and an oblique stripe from the mid to outer brow that extends to near the hairline. The area will also feel tight at times.

There will be a gradual lifting effect over subsequent weeks and months as the collagen fibres in the skin regenerate and remodel.

Post treatment care

• Apply the covering cream to the area to help disguise the underlying redness. This can be reapplied as needed.
• The scabs will come away of their own accord over some days, usually within a week or so. You must resist the temptation to pick them off.
• Swelling, including beneath the eyes, is to be expected and will last for around one week. Bruising may also occur from the local anaesthetic. Sleeping with your upper body elevated may help to reduce this.
• The treated area may be washed with plain water. Bland cleansers which do not sting may also be used.
• It is important to protect the treated area from the sun. If pigmentation occurs due to sun exposure, additional topical or oral medications, or other treatments, may be necessary.