Eyelid surgery (known as blepharoplasty) is a corrective procedure that can reduce dark circles or “bags” under the eyes, remove excess wrinkles, and provide a more youthful appearance to the eyes.  One of the first things noticed about a person is their eyes.  During the aging process, wrinkles, lines, and puffiness contribute to a tired or aged appearance.  The blepharoplasty surgery is often performed in conjunction with other facial procedures such as a face lift or rhinoplasty (nose surgery).

Blepharoplasty is a procedure used to improve the appearance of one’s eyelids.  The procedure is often performed on those who have “bags under the eyes” as a result of aging or simply genetics.  The upper eyelids tend to drop with age and can even drop to the point of altering one’s ability to see normally.  For both of these problems, blepharoplasty offers solutions.

 

For “tired” sagging upper eyes, an upper blepharoplasty is generally performed.  This procedure can be done under sedation and local anesthetic.  Patients are specially marked in the preoperative area and are then taken to the operating room.  After sedation is induced, local anesthetic is injected into the upper eyelid on each side.  The excess skin is then carefully trimmed.  Because many people have excess fat underneath the eyelid muscle which causes the eyelid to look “aged,” this fat is also carefully removed.  After removal of the fat, the eyelid skin is carefully closed so as to minimize scarring.

 

When patients complain of “bags under the eyes” and “tired” eyes, lower blepharoplasty is a commonly offered procedure.  In younger patients, the bags are often due to excess fat under the eyelid.  These patients may be good candidates for a repair done through the eyelid instead of underneath it.  In those suffering from the effects of aging, repairs are typically under the eyelid as this technique allows removal of baggy skin as well as fat.  The procedures performed on the lower eyelid are very similar to that of the upper lid.  After sedation is induced, local anesthetic is injected and a small incision is made.  The extra fat underneath the eyelid is cauterized or directly removed which alleviates the “bags.”  After this is done, a small amount of skin is removed (in those who have excess skin) and the incision is closed carefully so that the scar is practically invisible.

 

Upper and lower blepharoplasties can be performed at the same time and in conjunction with other facial procedures.  Recovery is fairly easy, though patients should expect bruising which should subside within seven to ten days.  If ice is regularly applied during the first thirty-six hours after surgery, bruising is minimized.  Sutures are removed in one week and patients can return to work within a few days if bruising is mild.  Patients are strongly encouraged to use natural tears solution frequently as well as eye lubrication at night for the first several weeks in order to minimize dry eye syndrome.

If you are interested in eyelid rejuvenation procedures, please call our office to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Smith. 

Reasons for Considering Eyelid Surgery:

• Dark circles or bags under the eyes.
• Excessive skin or wrinkles surrounding the eyelids.
• A tired appearance or puffiness due to inherited factors.

General Procedure

The surgical procedure includes tiny incisions made in the natural contours around the eyes which should leave no visible scarring.  The surgeon will usually work on the upper eyelids first to remove any fatty tissue and tighten loose skin.  Lower eyelids are completed next to eliminate puffiness and reduce dark circles.  In some instances, laser technology may be used to smooth lower eyelid areas.  Newer techniques may include Botox injections to firm fine lines and wrinkles.

The surgery generally takes about one to three hours and is performed in the physician’s office.  If additional cosmetic procedures are being performed, the eyelid surgery could last longer.

Recovery Process

Normally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time.  Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery which can be treated with oral medication.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize the risk for potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions given after the surgery.  The healing process for this procedure is slightly longer than most other forms of cosmetic surgery; however, the benefits are long-lasting.  Patients will have a more rested and youthful appearance.