We can track obvious signs of aging–gray hair, fine lines, crow’s feet at the corner of the eye, and wrinkles. Then there are things we don’t immediately notice that can be just as influential. The space above the eye. The eyelids.

The upper eyelid and brow subtly communicate youthfulness, vitality, and health, and a small but popular procedure—upper blepharoplasty—is gaining attention in Hollywood for its nuanced refinement and anti-aging potential. We break it all down and explain how it’s redefining ageless beauty.

In this issue: what does blepharoplasty do, why has it become culturally important, the science behind eyelid perception, and natural, non-invasive ways to enhance face attractiveness through attention to the eyelids and eyebrows.

Upper blepharoplasty surgery experienced one of the strongest upticks in the last few years. This procedure removes sagging, loose skin, bagginess, or puffiness in the upper lids that can create a tired or aged appearance, leading to a more alert and open look.

Popularized in Asia, upper blepharoplasty (also called “double eyelid" surgery) has actually been around for more than 100 years. It remains the most popular cosmetic surgery there, although the historical and cultural context can be sensitive.

Today, it’s mostly used to counteract the effects of aging and genetics and precent signs of aging. 👀

💰 Though it carries a considerable price tag—ranging anywhere between $5,000 - $14,000—it’s just a drop in $4 billion global eyelid surgery market (2024).

And unlike other procedures, it’s built on enhancing natural-looking beauty, says oculoplastic surgeon Steven Fagien, MD, Boca Raton, FL. They key is subtlety.

Our brains use eyes as social signals. Some research suggests that open eyelids can cue alertness, youth, and health, while drooping eyelids and excess skin may convey fatigue. In a recent Korean Journal of Ophthalmology study with 200 patients, upper eyelid surgery lowered average perceived age from 51 years to 42 years. 🎂.

This social dimension is not superficial. Confidence and self-esteem promote healthy social interactions that drive happiness and well-being, indicators of lifespan.

While core confidence should come from within, working on aesthetic (surgical or not) can be a supportive tool for some, aligning inner desires with outward expression to have a more fulfilling life.

A standing feature of Asian beauty culture, we can see it is popular among Hollywood’s A-listers, including George Clooney and celebrity aestician Georgia Louise.

Most recently, qualified surgeons online have been speculating that 36-year-old actress Emma Stone got the procedure, along with brow and cheek lift (although she has not confirmed it.)

Dr. JB, a London-based surgeon, explains in a recent Instagram post that her lower brows now sit higher on the face and hooded eyelids now look almond-shaped—key tells of upper blepharoplasty.

The changes are small, but the visual impact is big. 🌟

Once predominantly common for women in their 40s and 50s, men in the workforce and 30-somethings are also now using it as “prejuvenation,” before heavy signs of aging set in.

The earlier the surgery is performed, the slower the look of aging, remarks plastic surgeon Dr. Carolyn Chang, with the effects lasting upwards of 10 years. ✨

Higher eyebrows create facial contrast. This can make a face appear youthful and open. As we age, our eyebrows get lower. That’s why about 90% of patients who want an upper bleph also need a brow recontour to get the full visual effects, says oculoplastic surgeon Guy Massry in Hollywood Reporter.

This procedure is relatively safe, straightforward, and has few complications, Massry tells Hollywood Reporter. That being said, it can have surgical and psychological risks. ⚠️

Kahana Oculoplastic & Orbital Surgery, which specializes in blehphoplasty, stresses working with a board-certified surgeon in ophthalmology and/or facial plastic surgery to mimize risks and maximize benefits.

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Upper eyelid surgery highlights the surprising and subtle ways eyelids and brows influence appearance and aging. As its popularity grows among younger individuals and men, we see a desire for natural-looking prevention against aging.

Not everyone wants or needs surgery. Beauty can be done on your own terms. There are many natural opportunities to promote long-term beauty. Keep reading for non-surgical ways to open the upper eyelid and create temporary lift in the brow.

Non-surgical procedures
Dermal fillers, radiofrequency, and laser skin resurfacing treatments can boost radiance and skin volume.

Makeup
Brighten the inner corners with shimmer, create subtle shadow just above the crease, and extend eyeliner for lift.

Skincare
Firming eye creams can promote eyelid elasticity over time.

Massage
Gentle massage temple and eyelid region to boost circulation, ease tension, and hydrate skin.

Muscle release
Massage head and forehead to release tension, fascia, and promote circulation.

Join us for our next expert session to learn about innovations trying to make your cells younger.

In this podcast, Dr. Erin Faules from Wild Health broke down the most important markers of longevity—you can test all of them. This episode contains many practical and actionable insights.

Until next time,

_{The information provided about wellness and health is for general informational and educational purposes only. We are not licensed medical professionals, and the content here should not be considered medical advice. Talk to a doctor before trying any of these suggestions.}

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