Quality of Life Improvement Following Blepharoplasty: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Our previous retrospective study indicates that esthetic surgery in general results in a significant improvement in Quality of life (QoL). This is the first indication-specific prospective evaluation of QoL after blepharoplasty using standardized and validated questionnaires. Objectives: To report changes in QoL after blepharoplasty prospectively with a 6-month follow-up. Methods: The same surgical team performed an esthetic blepharoplasty on 50 patients. Participants answered 1 set of questionnaires preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. The instrument consisted of a self-developed indication-specific part specially designed for blepharoplasty and 4 validated and standardized testing instruments (FLZ, FPI-R, RSES, and PHQ-4) with norm data for German-speaking countries available. Results: This study reveals a high rate of satisfaction after blepharoplasty. 96% felt better about themselves and 94% would undergo the procedure again. Statistically significant increased values were found postoperatively in the items “income” (P=0.016), “family life” (P=0.028), “partner relationship” (P=0.039), “ability to relax” (P<0.001), “energy” (P<0.001), “hobbies” (P<0.001), and with their outer appearance in general (P=0.018). Blepharoplasty showed a statistically significant improvement in emotional stability (P=0.017) and a reduction in depressive symptoms (P<0.001). Our patients had statistically significantly higher self-esteem before (P<0.001) and after (P<0.001) the intervention. Conclusion: Our prospective study shows that blepharoplasty increases most aspects of QoL significantly, has a positive effect on emotional and physical well-being, and reduces the incidence of depressive symptoms and anxiety.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Quality of Life following Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: A Prospective Analysis

“…Facial aesthetics are intricately linked to psychological well-being, with studies consistently demonstrating the influence of facial appearance on self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. It represents more than just a cosmetic procedure; it is a means of restoring harmony to facial features, alleviating insecurities, and empowering individuals to present their best selves to the world [ 3 , 6 ]. By addressing concerns such as sagging eyelids, puffiness, and wrinkles, blepharoplasty can rejuvenate appearance and instill renewed confidence and vitality in patients.…”

“…Moreover, the eyes are often regarded as the “windows to the soul”, serving as a focal point of interpersonal communication and emotional expression. Alterations in the appearance of the upper eyelids can affect how individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others, potentially impacting their social interactions, relationships, and overall sense of connection [ 6 ].…”

“…In the context of upper eyelid blepharoplasty, addressing concerns related to excess skin and fat can alleviate these negative psychological effects. By enhancing facial aesthetics and restoring harmony to the upper eyelids, blepharoplasty can contribute to improved self-esteem, social confidence, and overall well-being [ 6 ]. This underscores the importance of cosmetic procedures such as blepharoplasty in not only addressing physical concerns but also promoting mental and emotional health.…”

“…By undergoing blepharoplasty, patients reclaim agency over their appearance, asserting control over aspects of their physicality that may have previously caused distress or discomfort. In essence, upper eyelid blepharoplasty transcends its cosmetic implications to become a vehicle for holistic self-enhancement and empowerment [ 4 , 6 ]. By addressing concerns related to facial aesthetics, this procedure enables individuals to project confidence, authenticity, and happiness, ultimately contributing to their overall sense of well-being and fulfillment in life [ 6 ].…”

“…In essence, upper eyelid blepharoplasty transcends its cosmetic implications to become a vehicle for holistic self-enhancement and empowerment [ 4 , 6 ]. By addressing concerns related to facial aesthetics, this procedure enables individuals to project confidence, authenticity, and happiness, ultimately contributing to their overall sense of well-being and fulfillment in life [ 6 ]. Thus, the significance of upper eyelid blepharoplasty extends far beyond its physical outcomes, encompassing profound psychological and social dimensions that enrich patients’ lives and promote their happiness and self-actualization.…”