Blepharoplasty and Eyelid Surgery

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

In a 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.  A transconjunctival approach can also be used for lower lid blepharoplasty.  This approach involves making an incision inside the lower lid. Fat can be removed through this incision, but excess skin cannot be eliminated.

Please ask your doctor if you have any questions about which procedure is right for you.

The blepharoplasty procedure

This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in our surgical center under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.  Additionally, local anesthesia is always given around the eyes.  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 and eye dryness is normal.

Recovery: What to Expect

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 10 days.