Blepharoplasty is the medical term for an eyelid tuck or eyelift. Excess skin, fat and muscle are removed to correct droopiness and bags. You will recieve general anasthesia for the surgery.
How does the surgery work?
The upper eyelids are corrected through incisions made along the natural crease of the eye. The lower eyelids are corrected through an incision made just below the lashes or on the interior of the eyelid. This incision can be made with a scalpel or a laser. With a laser, blood vessels are sealed as they are treated resulting in less bruising and bleeding. Excess fat and muscle are removed and the skin is stiched back together with small sutures.
What are the results?
Blepharoplasty gives you an alert, yourthful appearance that lasts for years.
How many treatments are required?
One treatment should be all that is necessary. You may choose to have a corrective surgery in the event of uneveness or taut lower lids.
Is blepharoplasty safe?
Blepharoplasty is a safe, common procedure, but it is surgery and carries surgical risks. Although slight, there is the possibility of infection or complications due to anesthesia.
Are there any possible side effects?
There may be minor, temporary side effects such as excessive tearing, sensativity to light, dryness, swelling and blurred or double vision.
Will there be any downtime?
You can be driven home a few hours after surgery and you must rest for a couple of days. Most clients can return to work within a week.
What can be expected after surgery?
Afterwards your eyes will be sensitive. You will be directed on how to care for your eyes, including instructions on cleaning and the application of ointment.
How soon will results be noticeable?
Results will be noticeable as soon as your swelling diminishes.
How long does the blepharoplasty procedure take?
A treatment of the upper eyelids alone may last as little as an hour. Treatment of the lower lids or both lids together can take up to three hours.
What conditions respond best to this treatment?
Blepharoplasty treats excessive fat and skin around the eyes. It does not remove wrinkles or lighten dark areas under the eyes.
Who should avoid blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty may not be suitable for those with thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism and Graves’ Disease, dry eyes, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease or circulatory disorders. In some cases the procedure can be performed with special consideration.
How does the treatment feel?
The procedure is done under anesthesia and medication is perscribed afterwards to ease the pain. Your eyelids will feel taut and sore afterwards.
How long will the results last?
Your new, alert look will last for years.
What are the alternative treatments?
Laser light resurfacing may be used to reduce puffiness in the lower lids assuming no skin needs to be removed. Fillers may be injected into the lower lid to smooth unevenness.
What are the limitations of blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is not for removing crow’s feet, fine lines or wrinkles. It does not lighten dark circles under the eyes.
Instructions before treatment
The patients’s individual surgeon will provide specific instructions prior to surgery. There will be guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking and medications to take and avoid. Patients should make arrangements for someone to drive them home after the surgery.
Instructions for after treatment
After treatment apply ointment, eye drops and cold compresses as recommended by your surgeon. Keep your head elevated and your eyes clean. You will be instructed on how to care for your eyes. You will be able to read and watch television after two or three days. Limit your activity for about four days. You will need to have stitches removed a couple of days after surgery. You should feel ready to return to work at around ten days. You should wear sunglasses and sunscreen if you go outside because your skin and eyes will be easily irritated. You can resume wearing contact lenses at about two weeks. Strenuous, vigerous activity should be avoided for about three weeks. Swelling can persist from two weeks to a month.