Blepharoplasty (Greek: blepharon, “eyelid” + plassein “to form”) is the plastic surgery operation for correcting defects, deformities, and disfigurations of the eyelids; and for aesthetically modifying the eye region of the face.
Eyelid surgery is primarily sought by people looking for anti-aging treatments. Sagging of the skin around your eyes is a natural part of aging, but you may consider this type of surgery if you’re starting to find such effects bothersome. Candidates also seek out blepharoplasty if they have significant bags under their eyes or if their eyebrows are starting to sag.For some people, a blepharoplasty goes beyond cosmetic concerns. You might be a good candidate for this procedure if your vision is affected by sagging skin. Some people may complain that their vision when looking upwards is blocked by the hanging skin.
Preparation
Preparing for eyelid surgery is complex. First, you’ll need an initial consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and desired outcomes for your eyelids. You’ll also want to ask your surgeon about their credentials and experiences with this type of surgery.
Before you undergo this procedure, your surgeon will need to run some tests. A physical exam is conducted to look at and measure your eyes. Vision and tear tests are also performed. Finally, your doctor will take pictures of your eyelids to help assist the doctor during the procedure.
It’s important to tell your surgeon about any medications you’re taking. This includes:
- prescription drugs
- over-the-counter remedies
- herbal supplements
Procedure:
Blepharoplasties are performed on an outpatient basis. That means you can go home shortly after the procedure. General anesthesia is only used for some people. Your surgeon will usually inject a numbing agent into your eyelids.
The upper eyelids are addressed first. Here, your surgeon will make a small cut and remove excess skin, as well as muscle and sometimes fat. Some of these tissues might be moved to other areas surrounding the eye before your surgeon closes the incision.
The lower lid blepharoplasty usually involves removal of fat, which contributes to the under-eye bags, as well as sometimes removing a small amount of skin. The incision may either be on the inside of the eyelid or on the outside underneath the lower eyelashes. In some people, the lower eyelid may be tightened or secured to the bony skeleton.
Blepharoplasties are performed on an outpatient basis. That means you can go home shortly after the procedure. General anesthesia is only used for some people. Your surgeon will usually inject a numbing agent into your eyelids.
The upper eyelids are addressed first. Here, your surgeon will make a small cut and remove excess skin, as well as muscle and sometimes fat. Some of these tissues might be moved to other areas surrounding the eye before your surgeon closes the incision.
The lower lid blepharoplasty usually involves removal of fat, which contributes to the under-eye bags, as well as sometimes removing a small amount of skin. The incision may either be on the inside of the eyelid or on the outside underneath the lower eyelashes. In some people, the lower eyelid may be tightened or secured to the bony skeleton
Recovery
Recovery from blepharoplasty is relatively short compared with other types of surgeries. Immediately after the procedure you’ll be moved to a recovery room. You’ll be monitored for side effects and, unless there are any complications, you’ll go home the same day.
It’s important to rest for a few days immediately following eyelid surgery. You might experience some swelling and pain. Your doctor may recommend you take ibuprofen to relieve these symptoms. It can take a week or two for these symptoms to fully go away. Your surgeon may also recommend ice packs for the next couple of days.
Blurry vision and sensitivity to light are also possible short-term side effects. Call your doctor if these symptoms last longer than a day or two.
