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Overview on Blepharoplasty

For those of us unfamiliar with medical terminology, blepharoplasty probably sounds more like an ancient Egyptian mummification ritual than a surgical procedure that repairs drooping eyelids and eyebrows. Blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as an eye lift or eyelid surgery, is sometimes performed for cosmetic reasons. If our evaluation determines your vision is negatively affected due to excess loose skin around the eyelids, your insurance will likely cover this procedure. However, just like any surgical procedure, it is important to understand exactly what is involved before you opt to undergo eyelid surgery.

When Should You Consider Blepharoplasty?

  • Excess or hooded eyelid or eyebrow skin is sagging and impairing your vision
  • Upper eyelid skin is hanging, covering your natural upper eyelid crease
  • Excessive bags under the eye causing eyes to appear puffy and tired
  • Sagging eyelids keep you from opening your eyes completely

What Happens During an Eyelid Surgery?

Let’s start with what happens before a blepharoplasty. Your surgeon will evaluate your facial muscle and bone structure to assess what the best procedure is for your particular issues and goals. Prior to the procedure, the surgeon will carefully mark the locations on your upper and lower eyelids to identify the areas where excess tissue will be removed and areas where the muscle may be tightened.

During the procedure, an incision is made in the natural fold of the upper eyelid and the surgeon will remove excess skin, muscle, or fat using precise medical instruments or in some cases, lasers to reduce any potential swelling or bruising. Sutures or tissue adhesive is applied to reshape and smooth the skin around the area. The majority of cases suffer no discernible scarring from the procedure.

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Generally, eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis with patients being monitored for several hours after surgery and then released to recover at home. After surgery, you may experience some or all of the following:

  • Swelling and bruising
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Double vision
  • Blurry, watery eyes
  • Some pain and discomfort

Your surgeon will provide post-op instructions for cleaning your eyelids and will likely recommend applying icepacks every hour the night following surgery, as well as the following day. They may also prescribe ointments and/or eyedrops. You’ll also be advised to avoid the following activities while you recover:

  • Smoking
  • Heavy lifting, working out or strenuous activity
  • Wearing contact lenses
  • Rubbing your eyes
  • Swimming
  • Sun or wind exposure
  • Aspirin, ibuprofen or other medications that may increase bleeding

Typical recovery time is 10 to 14 days, but some surgical incision scars may take time to fade. It’s essential to protect your eyelid skin from sun exposure during and after healing.

How Long Will the Results Last?

The results can vary between patients but for the most part, lower eyelid surgery is considered to be permanent. The average time frame for upper eyelid surgery is approximately 5-7 years.

Whatever your reasons are for considering a blepharoplasty procedure, the most important consideration is selecting an experienced, board-certified professional to entrust your eyes to. To learn more about your options, contact the caring, experienced professionals at Tyson Eye. Our team of talented specialists are available to discuss your goals and help you reach them. Call today or schedule your consultation online.

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