Through modern techniques and advances in an eyelid rejuvenation procedure called blepharoplasty, your doctor can help restore a more youthful, alert and healthy look to your droopy eyes. Sometimes referred to as a “mini face-lift,” blepharoplasty has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for both men and women because of its high level of patient satisfaction. Blepharoplasty can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids.
Blepharoplasty is for Those Who:
- Have eyelids encroaching on their field of vision
- Want to reduce loose skin over their eyes or bags under their eyes
Before Surgery
Your doctor will evaluate the condition and health of your eyes. Specifics regarding your vision, tear production, use of contact lenses, use of medications and personal expectations will be discussed. This information, along with other factors such as age, skin type and ethnic background will allow both you and your surgeon to come to a mutual decision. A plan will be discussed regarding the surgical technique, amount of surgery and type of anesthesia to be used.
What to Expect on Procedure Day
Once you have been checked-in and settled comfortably, you will be prepared for surgery. Blepharoplasty is generally performed using a local anesthetic. You may be given a mild sedative to help you relax.
If you are having surgery performed on your upper eyelids, your surgeon will remove the excess skin, muscle and fatty tissue that have accumulated in the inside corner of your eye, next to your nose. The incisions will be made along the natural foldsofn your skin so that as the incisions heal, they become difficult, if not impossible to see.
If your surgery is on your lower eyelids, your surgeon will make the incision inside or behind the eyelid (providing there is not too much excess skin). This technique is called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, which allows the removal of fatty deposits while avoiding the need for an external incision. If you have excessive skin or muscle folds below the eye, an incision may also be made just below the base of the eyelashes. As this incision heals, the fine scar should become barely visible.
After the procedure, you will need to have someone drive you home. You may experience some bruising and swelling for a week to a month after the surgery, longer in some cases. Cold compresses and head elevation will help reduce these effects. Your doctor may also recommend eye ointments and/or eye drops to keep the eye moist and clean.
Postoperative discomfort is usually relatively mild, but your eyes may feel sticky, dry and itchy for a week or so after the procedure. You will need to take special care in cleaning around your eyes for the first week or two.
Stitches are usually removed within five to ten days after surgery. Self-absorbing stitches will dissolve on their own. Make-up or sunglasses may be used to camouflage temporary bruising after the stitches are removed.
Expectations
The decision to have blepharoplasty is an important one that only you can make. The vast majority of our patients are extremely happy with their appearance after blepharoplasty, however, we cannot guarantee you will have the results you desire. Although the positive effects on your appearance from having blepharoplasty are immediate, your results will not be considered final for up to a year as the healing process continues.
Serious complications with blepharoplasty are extremely rare, but like any surgical procedure, it does have some risks. If you decide that blepharoplasty is an option for you, you will be given additional information about the procedure that will allow you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Be sure you have all your questions answered to your satisfaction.
Blepharoplasty is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and most insurance companies will not pay for the procedure. However, if your eyelids are encroaching upon your field of vision, the procedure may be covered as “medically necessary” surgery. We would be happy to contact your insurance carrier to determine if they cover the procedure.
Before and After
Eyelid Malposition – Entropion & Ectropion
Two of the most common forms of eyelid malposition are entropion and ectropion.
Entropion
Entropion is the inward turning of the eyelid, usually the lower, causing the lashes to rub against the cornea (the clear surface of the eye). Patients complain of eye pain, excessive tearing, redness and irritation caused from the rubbing lashes. Left untreated, entropion could lead to permanent damage to the cornea and some vision loss.
Causes of Entropion
Laxity of eyelid tendons combined with weakening of muscles with age commonly cause entropion, although it could also occur as a result of trauma or scarring.
Ectropion
Ectropion is an outwardly turned or sagging lower lid. As the lid sags away, the eye is exposed, and patients experience dryness and excessive tearing.
Causes of Ectropion
Common causes of ectropion include age-related tendon laxity, trauma, scarring, or facial nerve paralysis associated with Bell’s Palsey.
Treatment
Initially, lubrication drops or ointments may give temporary relief from the irritation caused by entropion and ectropion; however, surgical treatment is usually the only long term solution.
Anesthesia
Entropion repair is normally performed on an outpatient basis under a local anesthesia.
Recovery
This surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, so you will go home the same day. There is minimal discomfort after the procedure. You may experience blurred vision, which should last under 24 hours. Ice packs are recommended for the first two days while bending and heavy lifting should be minimized. Swelling and bruising around to eyes lasts for seven to ten days. Most patients can return to work after one week.
