WHAT IS Eyelid Surgery also known as blepharoplasty?
The eyelids are often the first place to show signs of aging which is why so many patients are interested in learning more about eyelid surgery. As the skin of the eyelids become more relaxed with time, folds (or hooding) can happen. As a result of the hooding, some people may compensate by raising their eyebrows, often resulting in the deepening of forehead creases. Relaxation of the tissues in the forehead can also result in a drop in the position of the eyebrows (also known as brow ptosis). For these reasons, the eyelids and brows should be evaluated together to best predict the result. In some cases, the most balanced result may be achieved by combining eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) with a forehead (brow) lift.
THE PROCEDURE:
Upper eyelid surgery is performed though an incision that will be hidden in the natural crease. Excess skin and fat are removed and the incision is closed. The incisions heal quickly and are very difficult to detect.
Lower Eyelid Surgery is performed in one of the two ways:
Subciliary approach: An incision is made just below the eyelashes and is used to treat both excess skin as well as bulges from the fat pads under the eyelids.
Transconjunctival Approach: With this technique, the incision is made on the inner side of the eyelid. This allows excess fat to be removed without external incisions resulting in less bruising. This is an ideal option if minimal skin removal is necessary. Removal of fat is judged very meticulously to avoid the hollow appearance that can sometimes be seen after eyelid surgery.
Fat Repositioning
Some patients have a combination of bulging lower eyelid fat and a deep hollow along the rim of the eye socket, known as a tear trough. In these individuals, instead of removing excess fat from the bulging area, this tissue can be repositioned into the tear trough to add volume to this area and significantly lessen the appearance of the tear trough. Although blepharoplasty is very effective in rejuvenating the eye, there are some limitations which our surgeon can address as well. Blepharoplasty is not effective in reducing crows feet, which is typically treated using Botox. Although eyelid surgery can greatly reduce wrinkles, some of the fine lines are not able to be removed completely. However, they can be improved. Finally, for those with a heavy brow, a forehead lift may be done in combination with upper eyelid surgery to achieve the best result.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Patients can expect some mild discomfort and swelling in the areas around the eyes after surgery. Makeup can be worn after sutures are removed in about 1 week. Light activities can usually be resumed the day after surgery, and normal activities, including light exercise, can be resumed one week after surgery.
