What is a Blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Surgery can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids or both. Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.
What can it improve?
● Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision
● Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids
● Bags under the eyes
● Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
● Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid
How is the surgery performed?
The incision lines for eyelid surgery are designed so the resultant scars will be well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region. The upper eyelid can be corrected through an incision within the natural crease on the eyelid. This allows for removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles, and removal of excess skin. Conditions of the lower eyelid may be corrected with an incision just below the lower lash line. Through this incision, excess skin in the lower eyelid is removed. Again, the excess fat can be repositioned or removed. A transconjunctival incision, created on the inside of the lower eyelid, is an alternate technique to correct lower eyelid conditions and redistribute or remove excess fat. With this technique, no skin is removed.
What can I expect after surgery?
During your eyelid surgery recovery, lubricating ointment and cold compresses may be applied, and in some cases your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze, after your procedure is completed. Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses and ointment. You must practice diligent sun protection and use darkly tinted sunglasses until the healing process is fully complete. What results can I expect? The results of eyelid surgery will be long-lasting, and while there can be initial swelling or bruising, most patients are able to resume normal activities in 10-14 days. Following your post-operative instructions is essential to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions not be subjected to excessive force, abrasion or motion during the time of healing, and ongoing sun protection will help to maintain your results.
