Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty

Factors such as aging, sun damage, smoking, stretching and obesity can cause the eyelids to droop and sag as the supporting tissues deteriorate. This area is often one of the first to show signs of damage, as the skin of the eyelid is thinner than the rest of the face. Eyelids that droop or bulge can cause people to appear much older or more fatigued than they actually are.

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids by tightening muscles and tissue or removing excess fat and skin. This procedure can be performed on men and women alike and offers a younger, more refreshed look that reflects across the whole face.

Blepharoplasty is now the most popular facial plastic surgery procedure after rhinoplasty. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyes, you may want to consider blepharoplasty to improve your look and boost your confidence through a safe procedure with minimal downtime.

A blepharoplasty may be combined with other procedures such as a browlift. Browlifts can revitalize drooping or lined foreheads, helping you to look less angry, sad or tired. Using either traditional or minimally invasive (endoscopic) methods, the muscles above the eyes are altered to smooth lines and raise the eyebrows for a more youthful appearance.

Your Blepharoplasty Consultation

During your blepharoplasty consultation, we will listen to your concerns and experience regarding the appearance of your eye area. We will also listen to your goals and expectations for blepharoplasty. Next, your eye region will be examined, and we will discuss your complete medical history, including any past procedures.

We will create a suitable surgical plan depending on your goals and the condition of your eye area. Additionally, we will make sure you fully understand all the details of the procedure while addressing any concerns.

Blepharoplasty Procedure

A blepharoplasty at Liebertz Plastic Surgery at Yarrow Bay is usually performed under local anesthesia. General anesthesia may be used for certain types of blepharoplasty procedures. Patients may choose to have this procedure on their upper or lower eyelids, or both. Depending on these choices, the procedure can take anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours.

If the upper eyelid is being treated, an incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid. Once the incision is made, Dr. Liebertz may reposition fat deposits, tighten muscles and tissue, or remove excess skin in order to leave the eye looking younger and refreshed. For the lower eyelid, an incision is made just below the lash line in order for excess skin to be removed, or an incision is created inside of your eyelid to address excessive lower lid fat that causes the eyes to look puffy or baggy.

After the procedure is performed, the incisions are closed with sutures and ointment is applied.

Blepharoplasty Recovery

You will need to arrange for a ride home in advance, since you will not be able to drive right after the blepharoplasty procedure. You must also arrange for help around the house during the start of the recovery process.

After the blepharoplasty procedure, your doctor may recommend applying lubricating ointment and cold compresses to aid the healing process and minimize side effects such as swelling, bruising, irritation or dry eyes.

Patients can usually return to work within two days, but should avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least two weeks. Swelling and other side effects usually subside within two weeks after surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes are surgery. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to check on the recovery progress and to remove any sutures as necessary.

Blepharoplasty Results

Results of a blepharoplasty procedure are visible as swelling and bruising subside and will continue to improve for up to a year after surgery. This procedure is designed to produce long-lasting results. While surgery cannot prevent your eyes from aging, most patients are satisfied with their results and do not seek repeat procedures.

The scars from the blepharoplasty procedure are usually well concealed and will fade with time until they are virtually unnoticeable. The incision is hidden in the crease of the eyelid in an upper blepharoplasty, and just below the lashes in a lower blepharoplasty.

Blepharoplasty Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with this procedure. Although rare, these risks include bleeding, infection, dry eyes, skin discoloration and an inability to fully close the eyes. Many of these risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced surgeon and following proper care instructions after surgery. You can discuss these risks, along with any other concerns you may have, with your doctor to reduce anxiety and worries about your surgery.

How Much Does Blepharoplasty Cost?

The cost of the blepharoplasty procedure varies depending on the details of the treatment plan, including the number of eyelids being treated. The overall price can also be impacted by total surgical time, anesthesia fees, and other factors.