Blepharoplasty
One of the more prominent signs of aging is the excess skin that starts to sag around the eyes and eyelids. Blepharoplasty is the cosmetic surgery procedure to reduce excess skin that may hang over the upper lash line or create “bags” under the eyes.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is the cosmetic surgery procedure to reduce excess skin that may hang over the upper lash line or create “bags” under the eyes. Whether done for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate any vision impairment from the excess skin on the upper lids, blepharoplasty restores a rested, more youthful appearance.
Benefits
It is very common to want to make your eyes brighter since they are the first feature that anyone notices. Eyelid surgery is a very popular procedure because it offers the following benefits:
- Restores a rested, more youthful appearance
- Corrects any issues with vision
- Smooths the area around the eyes
- Improves self-confidence
Variations of Procedure & Technique
- Upper blepharoplasty
- Lower blepharoplasty
- Upper and lower blepharoplasty
What To Expect After
Once the surgery is complete, you are taken to a recovery room to let the anesthesia wear off. Once you are able, you may go home with the assistance of someone to drive you, as you may have ointment and gauze over your eyes.
You will also be given antibiotic ointment and medicine to help with the healing and prevent infection. Your stitches are typically removed within a week following the procedure with recovery taking about two weeks to complete.
At this point, you may return to work as long as there is no heavy lifting or strenuous activities, which may be resumed a few weeks later. You will receive detailed recovery instructions to follow during your recovery which, when followed closely, ensure a successful recovery and result.
Blepharoplasty
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR A BLEPHAROPLASTY?
A: People who show the signs of aging in their eyes may be ideal candidates for eyelid surgery. Blepharoplasty is often selected to diminish a tired facial expression that is the result of excess skin on the upper and lower lids as well as around the eyes. Once it is tightened and the excess skin is cut away, a more relaxed and rested look is created. Additionally, excess skin on the upper lids can hinder vision making it necessary for people who have this issue to have eyelid surgery.
Q: HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A BLEPHAROPLASTY?
A: As with any surgery, it is important to follow the protocol for preparing for blepharoplasty. During your consultation, you will get detailed instructions on the steps to take to ensure a successful procedure, such as stopping smoking and avoiding any medications and supplements that may thin the blood a few weeks prior to the procedure as well as afterward.
Q: WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE APPOINTMENT?
A: During eyelid surgery, very small incisions are placed in the crease of the upper eyelids. The skin is pulled or lifted then the excess skin and fatty deposits are removed. At that point, the incisions are closed. As it is done, Dr. Kian recreates a natural eyelid crease.
When performing lower lid surgery, there are several techniques used to achieve the desired look. Those who have excess fat in the area of the lower lid (bags under their eyes) can expect to have incisions inside the lower lid. If the lower lid needs to be reinforced because of wrinkly lower lids, incisions are typically made just under the lower lash line. Lastly, fat transposition lower lid blepharoplasty may be done by transferring the fat bag into the under eye hollow to minimize or eliminate that “sunken” or “hollowed” appearance after surgery.
Q: HOW LONG DOES A BLEPHAROPLASTY PROCEDURE TAKE?
A: Blepharoplasty is done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with sedation and takes up to two hours to complete.
Q: WHEN WILL I SEE THE RESULTS?
A: The recovery process from blepharoplasty takes only a few weeks to complete. Much of the swelling and bruising goes away within a couple of weeks; however, it may take just a few weeks longer. As the recovery process continues, the results become more visible with the complete look achieved within a month or so.
Q: HOW LONG WILL THE BLEPHAROPLASTY RESULTS LAST?
A: The results are long lasting following blepharoplasty. With proper maintenance, results from eyelid surgery can last more than 10 years.
Q: WHAT IS THE COST OF A BLEPHAROPLASTY?
A: The cost of blepharoplasty is different with each patient as it depends on the extent of the procedure and whether other procedures are performed at the same time. We can go over the costs with you during your consultation along with our payment options including financing through CareCredit®.
Q: WILL I HAVE SCARS AFTER A BLEPHAROPLASTY?
A: The incisions on the upper eyelid are typically made in the crease of the eyelid to keep them hidden, although they are minimal and greatly diminish over time. As for the lower lids, the incisions are made close to the lash line to keep them from being noticeable. With younger patients having lower eyelid surgery, the incisions may be made just inside the lower lid.