For years, I've openly discussed my drooping eyelids with close family and friends. Six months ago, after much deliberation, I finally booked my upper eyelid correction at Kliniek Veldhoven. As someone who's now three weeks post-op, I'll share my full experience—from the decision-making process to the surgery and recovery—complete with photos and practical advice. If droopy eyelids are affecting you, this firsthand account may provide the insights you need.
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You might wonder why anyone would opt for eyelid surgery. If drooping eyelids aren't impacting you, it's probably not on your radar. I didn't notice issues in my twenties, but by my forties, they became prominent—likely from genetics, sleepless nights with young kids, and everyday stress. Many experience this as they age.
I didn't have severe physical issues yet, though the sagging irritated me. Looking at my older brother (15 years my senior), I saw a preview of what could worsen without intervention. Bags under the eyes often follow, as I've learned from my own past experiences.
Read also: With or without eyelid correction for my drooping eyelids
Raised to appreciate what I have and value inner beauty, I rarely complained. Yet, daily mirror checks involved pulling back my lids, frustrating makeup application—eyeliner hid under the fold, mascara smudged, eyeshadow faded quickly. These practical hassles, combined with a growing desire for a refreshed look, convinced me it was time.
With clear motivations, the next step was finding the right clinic. I scoured online reviews, clinic sites, and even my GP's info. Stories were mostly positive, focusing on results, but recovery details were scarce. I chose Kliniek Veldhoven for their plastic surgery expertise, high ratings, ample info, and a personal connection.
During my initial summer appointment, I underwent a thorough screening—medical history, medications, allergies, and a self-rating of my appearance. Rating myself a seven (with room for improvement), I explained my daily frustrations. The team confirmed I was a strong candidate and encouraged questions.
The plastic surgeon evaluated options: eyelid correction or a combined eyebrow lift for optimal results. The lift offers more lift but longer recovery. After reviewing childhood photos and weighing preferences, I opted for eyelid surgery alone—sufficient for my needs without added intensity.
Nerves built despite positive stories from others. Operating on the face felt significant, and 'plastic surgery' carried weight. Yet, no horror tales emerged.
Some view eyelid surgery as unnecessary or taboo, arguing droopy lids are 'part of you.' I once felt similarly about retouching my daughter's school photo scar, valuing authenticity. At 44, however, proactive steps for long-term confidence made sense over years of dissatisfaction.
Read also: My daughter's scar has been retouched in the new school photo
Working from home eased scheduling. I timed it for early November—avoiding summer sun (scars heal best shaded) and allowing holiday recovery.
These steps ensured smooth sailing; I even attended a concert 10 days later, glasses on.
Upper eyelid correction removes excess skin and fat, leaving enough for normal function. It targets lids only; eyebrows may need separate lifting. Expect swelling, no contacts/makeup for weeks, and light activity restrictions.
The surgeon marks excess tissue, injects local anesthetic (brief sting, then numbing cold), and operates for about 40-60 minutes.
No pain, but pressure awareness—like a C-section for some. Covered in a blanket against the cool OR, I felt mild dizziness (quickly addressed). Fully conscious, I even joked amid the cauterizing scent.
Two skin pieces and fat pads removed. Recovery room cooling, tea, surgeon check, then home. Day 1 looked decent; swelling peaked days 2-3.
Day 1: Rested at home, prepped blogs.
Cool 5-10 minutes hourly for two days to minimize swelling—interrupts Netflix, but essential.
Flexible fit in a freezer bag molds to eyes better than rigid packs. Wrap in a glove to avoid frostbite; repurpose for soup later.
Worked from home day 2 (glasses hid swelling). Kids' reactions were honest; minimal bruising by day 3.
Daily showers with gentle eye rinsing (contra some advice). No lenses for 4 weeks to prevent infection.
Quick 10-minute visit: cleaned, compressed, sutures out seamlessly. True results emerge.
Swelling and reduced skin cause tightness (eases post-stitches). Numbness fades gradually.
Scabs nearly gone; delaying makeup/lenses for full healing. Scars hide in natural creases; applying cream now.
Thrilled early on—morning puffiness lingers but fading. This detailed account aims to demystify the process; my positive outcome encourages those hesitating.
