Eyelid lifts (Blepharoplasty)

The eyes are the focal point of the face and contribute to the overall facial appearance. A natural part of facial aging involves eyebrows sagging, upper eyelid skin drooping, and lower eyelid bulging. These changes occur as the skin stretches, muscles weaken, and fat deposits around the eyes bulge with aging. Heredity, gravity, personal habits, and sun exposure all contribute to these changes.

One of the most frequently performed procedures, upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed to remove the fat deposits and loose skin that form around the upper and lower eyelids with age. Younger people also have this procedure done to remove the puffiness around the eyes due to excess fatty tissue. Upper eyelid surgery can improve the excess skin (hooding) on the upper eyelid, or puffiness in the inner and middle portions of the upper eyelid caused by bulging fat. In the lower eyelid, surgery can also be performed to remove excess fat deposits and loose skin. This surgery does not eliminate skin wrinkles; this may require a resurfacing procedure in the form of laser treatment or chemical peels. This surgery can be combined with other facial procedures such as a facelift or forehead lift.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

The best candidates for surgery are people 18 years of age or older who are in good health and have realistic expectations. Your age, skin type, ethnicity, degree of skin elasticity, individual healing, and bone structure are important factors. They should have no eye conditions and any other medical conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease) should be evaluated prior to surgery.Before Surgery
During the initial consultation, the doctor will cover all areas of concern, including the procedure, incisions, anesthesia, pre/post operative care, and results. If there are any further questions, the doctor will be more than happy to answer them at that time. All treatment options will be discussed. After the initial consultation, a second visit will be arranged in which a complete physical exam and bloodwork will be done. Photographs will be taken and fees will be discussed.

The risks associated with eye surgery are uncommon, but do include reactions to anesthesia, infection, bleeding, hematoma (blood collection), wound scar, asymmetry, tearing, dryness and gritty sensation in the eyes, and slight downward pulling of the lower eyelid. A rare complication is loss of vision.

The Surgery

The surgery is performed in our fully equipped surgery center under intravenous sedation and local anesthesia. The patient sleeps comfortably through the procedure, and wakes up in the recovery room without the ill effects of a general anesthetic. Usually, the surgery lasts up to two hours.
In upper eyelid surgery, the incision is made in the natural skin fold. Excess skin and fatty tissue is then removed. The incisions are then closed with a very fine suture so that the incision is hidden in the natural fold of the eyelid.

In lower eyelid surgery, the incision is usually made under the eyelash line in a natural crease. Excess fat and skin are then removed before the incisions are closed with fine suture. Eyelid puffiness caused by excess fat may be corrected by making an incision just inside the lower eyelid; excess fatty material can be removed in this case, and no external scar is visible.

After Surgery

Following surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room for up to two hours. You will have small adhesive strips covering the external incision sites. Initially, you may feel a tight sensation around the eyes, with minor discomfort around the eyes for a day or two. Pain medications and antibiotic eyedrops will be prescribed. Ice compresses will make you feel more comfortable by reducing swelling and bruising. The first evening after surgery, you should rest quietly with your head elevated. You will notice swelling, and bruising around the eyes, and this will gradually subside within 7 to 10 days. The incision scar will initially appear red, but will later become flat and inconspicuous. Your stitches will be removed within the first week. You may also experience blurry vision, secondary to tearing or dryness, and light sensitivity; these are temporary, and will resolve.
Most patients are back to work after ten days, and may return to vigorous activities after 4 weeks. Follow up visits are at 7 days, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year.

The Results

Eyelid surgery can make a remarkable difference in the appearance of your face, restoring a brighter, more rested appearance to your face. Your eyes appear fresher and more youthful and these results may last for many years. The degree of improvement varies from patient to patient. After blepharoplasty, your eyes can express the energy and self confidence that you are truly feeling.
To find out more about eyelid surgery, please contact the office to book a complimentary private physician consultation.

Click here for a eyelid lift diagram