Blepharoplasty, Eyelid lift in Clinton
Eyes are a prominent facial feature. It is the surrounding skin, rather than the eyes themselves, that conveys emotion. The tissue, muscle, fat, hair and lashes all contribute to the wide array of expressions. Age, sun exposure and hereditary factors all contribute to wrinkles, deep lines and puffiness around the eyes.
The aging process can cause unwanted changes in expression, causing us to look permanently fatigued and older than we really are. These changes in appearance can cause emotional distress and sometimes even visual impairment. An eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, is designed to restore a more youthful appearance to your eyes. It may involve the upper lids, the lower lids, or both.
New and Traditional Techniques
Traditional Blepharoplasty: An incision is made in the crease of the upper lid toward the temples. Once healed, it is not noticeable when the eye is open. On the lower lid, the incision is made along the lash line toward the temples, and is hidden by lashes when healed.
The Transconjunctival Approach: This is a newer technique for lid blepharoplasty, involving an incision inside the lower lid. Fat can be removed through this incision, but excess skin cannot be eliminated.
Laser resurfacing of the eyelids is a non-surgical alternative that may delay the need for a surgical blepharoplasty. It results in significant tightening of the skin around the eyes, but will not effect the fat around the eyes and may even accentuate it.
Please ask your doctor if you have any questions about which procedure is right for you.
The Surgery
Local anesthesia is given around the eyes. An intravenous line is started so that sedation may also be given. During the procedure you will be awake but comfortable and relaxed. General anesthesia is rarely used.
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis at our surgical center. It is important to arrange for care after the surgery. Someone must drive you home and be available to care for you for the first 24 hours.
Complications are unlikely when performed by a surgeon with experience in blepharoplasty. These include: bleeding and swelling, delayed wound healing, infection, drooping of eye upper or lower eyelid, asymmetry, double vision and dry eyes.
Recovery: What to Expect
The area surrounding the eyes will remain swollen in the days following the surgery. It should begin to subside after the first day. Some vision blurring is normal.
The stitches will be removed in 4-5 days. Swelling and bruising will persist for about 10 days, but you can begin wearing makeup to help conceal these concerns. You may expect to resume normal activity within a week to 10 days, and start enjoying your new look within approximately 10-14 days. It may take about 6 months for the scars to lose their redness.
Wrinkling will recur later in life, however it is unlikely that the “bags” will recur because the fat has been removed. Deeper wrinkles around the outer eye extended onto the temple are not greatly affected by the eyelid lift. These areas may be treated with laser resurfacing.
FAQs About Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
What is eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The procedure can reduce sagging skin, puffiness, under-eye bags, and excess tissue that may create a tired or aged appearance.
Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
Good candidates for eyelid surgery are healthy adults who are bothered by drooping eyelids, puffiness beneath the eyes, excess skin, or a tired facial appearance. Some patients also seek treatment because excess upper eyelid skin interferes with their vision.
What concerns can eyelid surgery address?
Blepharoplasty can improve:
- Sagging upper eyelids
- Puffy under-eye bags
- Loose or excess eyelid skin
- Wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes
- A fatigued or aged appearance
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia and IV sedation are commonly used to help you remain comfortable and relaxed throughout treatment. Mild soreness and swelling are normal during recovery.
How long does eyelid surgery take?
The length of surgery depends on whether the upper lids, lower lids, or both are being treated. Most eyelid surgery procedures are completed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
What is recovery like after eyelid surgery?
Swelling and bruising around the eyes are common for the first several days after surgery. Most patients can resume normal activities within 7–10 days, while final healing and scar fading continue over the following months. Stitches are typically removed within 4–5 days.
Will there be visible scars after blepharoplasty?
Incisions are carefully placed within the natural creases of the eyelids or along the lash line to minimize visible scarring. As healing progresses, scars generally become very difficult to notice.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes. Eyelid surgery is often combined with other facial cosmetic procedures such as facelift surgery, brow lifts, or facial rejuvenation treatments for more comprehensive results.
How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?
Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting. While the natural aging process continues, many patients enjoy a more youthful and refreshed appearance for many years after surgery.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to eyelid surgery?
Some patients may benefit from non-surgical treatments such as laser skin resurfacing or injectable cosmetic treatments. These options may improve skin texture and wrinkles but may not remove excess skin or fat deposits as effectively as surgery.
When can I wear makeup again after eyelid surgery?
Most patients can begin wearing makeup approximately 10 days after surgery once bruising and swelling improve. Your surgeon will provide personalized post-operative instructions based on your healing progress.
How do I schedule a consultation for eyelid surgery?
The best way to determine if blepharoplasty is right for you is to schedule a consultation with the team at Anderson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and create a customized treatment plan.