Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
The eye has long been called the window to the soul. Hence, its appearance is deeply valued and often considered very revealing. Over time, however, aging can dramatically alter the appearance of eyes. Also hereditary and genetic factors can also impact the appearance of eyes. Eyelids appear droopy or puffy due to excess skin, tissue, or fat. Cosmetic eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, can correct this and remove excess skin, tissue, and fat that contributes to puffiness and bags in both the upper and lower eyelids. This results in a youthful, awake, and energetic appearance.
Before
After
Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery
Ideal candidates for cosmetic eyelid surgery have loose or sagging skin that hangs down from the upper eyelid or hides the natural contour of the upper eyelid. They may also have excess skin or fine wrinkles around the lower eyelid, or puffiness around the lower eyelid due to protruding fat deposits. These conditions may appear as part of the natural aging process or due to hereditary factors. Cosmetic eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty, addresses these conditions that affect the appearance of the eyelids. Eyelid surgery removes excess skin, eliminates bags, and restores a youthful freshness to the area around the eye, creating a relaxed and natural appearance, while opening up the eye area.
Eyelid Surgery Procedure
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, typically under local or sedation anesthesia. Surgery may involve the upper or lower eyelids, or both eyelids. Upper eyelid incisions are made within the natural lid crease. Lower eyelid incisions are made at the edge of the lash line or within the eyelid. These incisions typically heal quite well, leaving scars that are usually imperceptible. Other procedures such as facelift or brow lift may be performed at the same time if desired.
Recovery from Eyelid Surgery
Most patients can return to work and normal activity within one week. Cold compresses can reduce swelling within the first few days. Sutures are generally removed within four to seven days after surgery. Most of the swelling or bruising fades within one to two weeks. Cosmetics can camouflage any bruising during this time. Healing will continue as the incision lines improve and all swelling diminishes.
Eyelid Surgery FAQs
Blepharoplasty is eyelid surgery that is commonly used to remove excess skin and puffiness of the upper and lower eyelids in order to create a youthful and refreshing appearance to the eye area.
Blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia. However, a board-certified anesthesiologist can provide general anesthesia with sedation if desired by the patient. Dr. Breitbart can perform blepharoplasty in his surgical center, which is certified by the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF).
Sutures are usually removed within four to seven days after surgery. Most patients are generally back to work within one week after surgery.
