Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
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Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can do wonders for your self esteem and
improve your appearance. It is one of the most frequently performed
surgical procedures. As we age, our eyes become droopy and the fat in our upper and
lower eyelids becomes more prominent. Factors which may contribute to this include genetics, aging, or the damaging effects of the sun. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), a common surgical procedure for both men and women, corrects drooping upper lids and alleviates the puffiness below the eyes by removing excess fat and skin.
The primary use of blepharoplasty is for improving the cosmetic appearance of the eyes. In some older patients, however, sagging and excess skin surrounding the eyes can be so extensive that it limits the range of vision. In those cases, blepharoplasty serves a more functional purpose.
The goal is to provide a more youthful appearance.
To find out if eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is for you, schedule a private consultation. During your consultation, ask about the other facial enhancement procedures that Eye Life Institute offers in its Skin Renewal Center. To make an appointment please call our office (Paradise: (530) 877-2020, Chico: (530) 892-2020).
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) FAQ
How is eyelid surgery performed?
The surgeon will begin by deciding whether excess skin, fat deposits, or muscle looseness are at fault. The patient then receives injections of a local anesthetic to numb the pain. We also give our patients a sedative intravenously during the procedure. Care will be taken to hide the incision lines in the natural skin folds above and below the eye. After a small, crescent-shaped section of eyelid skin is removed, our surgeon will work to tease out small pockets of fat that have collected in the lids. If muscle looseness is also a problem, the surgeon may trim tissue or add a stitch to pull it tighter. Then the incision is closed with stitches.
In some patients, fat deposits in the lower eyelid may be the only or primary problem. Such patients may be good candidates for transconjunctival blepharoplasty. In this procedure our surgeon makes no incision on the surface of the eyelid, but instead enters from behind to tease out the fat deposits from a small incision. The advantage of this procedure is that there is no visible scar.
How long does eyelid surgery take?
The upper and lower eyelids done together will take about one hour, if done separately the procedure will take less time.
Where is the procedure performed?
Eye Life Institute operates an Ambulatory Surgery Center at our Paradise office location. Blepharoplasty and other eye surgeries are performed here in a safe but comfortable and convenient environment.
When can I return home and resume normal activities?
Patients return home the same day. Typically patients can resume normal activities within seven days.
How do I prepare for eyelid surgery?
During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss the changes that you would like to make to your appearance. Since the appearance of your eyes is a matter of personal perception and preference, you will need to discuss your concerns in detail so your surgeon can determine the appropriate alternatives.
You also should make arrangements ahead of time for someone to drive you to and from your procedure and to assist you with your daily activities during your recovery period.
Prior to your surgical procedure, a complete eye exam will be scheduled with one of our Doctors. Our surgical counselor will review your health history and discuss with you specific instructions to assist you in preparing for this procedure. Knowledge of your allergies, medications and previous surgeries will be discussed at this time. Your experience will be much smoother if you remain compliant with your surgeon's instructions.
What precautions are necessary during recovery?
An antibiotic ointment is applied to the line of stitches for several days after surgery. Your eyes are not bandaged. However, medication used during the procedure may cause blurred vision for one or two hours. Ice-cold compresses are applied to the eyes often for the first three days following surgery, and several times a day for the next week or so, to reduce swelling. Some swelling and discoloration around the eyes is to be expected with the procedure. Patients should avoid aspirin for one week and should limit their activities, including bending, straining, and lifting. The stitches are removed approximately 2 weeks after surgery. Patients can generally return to their usual activities within a week to 10 days.
What are the possible complications after eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery rarely causes serious complications. Some possible complications may include improper closure of the eyes during sleep, dryness of the eyes, and sagging (ptosis) of the upper eyelids. Some swelling and discoloration are expected following an eyelid lift but usually subside in five to ten days. Following the procedure, there will be slight discomfort that can be relieved by medication. It is always important to be informed about the possible complications before any surgery. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with your surgeon or surgical counselor.
What results can I expect after eyelid surgery?
Remember that an eyelid lift cannot stop the aging process around your eyes. Although excess skin is removed and wrinkles are diminished, your skin continues to age. "Bags" beneath the lower eyelids usually do not recur. As you grow older the skin of the upper lids becomes looser and may create additional folds in which case an upper lid "touch-up" can be done. In time you may feel the need to have a second procedure. There is no set limit as to how many eyelid lifts you may have. Your eyelid lift is designed to give your eyes the lighter more vigorous appearance you seek.
For additional information:
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. American Academy of Facial and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery.
