Eyelid Surgery/Blepharoplasty

As we all know, the eyes are a prominent facial feature. Although the eyes are expressionless structures, the surrounding skin conveys emotion. The tissue, muscle, fat, hair and lashes all contribute to the wide array of expressions. Unfortunately, wrinkles and deep lines as well as puffiness under the lids develop as you age. In addition, exposure to the sun, smoking, and hereditary factors contribute to the aging process, all resulting in changes of expression. In many cases, people may look fatigued, worn out and older than their true age.

We can perform blepharoplasty to correct sagging eyelids, bags or puches beneath the eyes, as well as excess folds around the eyes.  This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat on upper and lower eyelids.  Blepharoplasty can be done under general anesthesia (with you asleep) or under IV Sedation.  Both are comfortable options.  Pre-medication is utilized prior to surgery to decrease swelling after the operation.

Before Surgery

To better understand your overall health, we will evaluate your medical history prior to surgery. In addition, a complete examination of your eyes (including an exam by an eye doctor) and face are made in order to take the most effective surgical approach. The amount, distribution and type of excess skin to be removed are carefully reviewed.

As your doctor, we will provide you with pre-operative instructions that will include the elimination of specific drugs containing aspirin several weeks before surgery to minimize excess bleeding. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent infection.

The areas that will be excised are marked and digital photographs and computer imaging is performed in order to determine the amount of improvement after surgery.

During Surgery

We will trace the natural lines and creases of your face and make fine incisions from the inner to the outer edge of the eyelid.  Surgery on the upper eyelid is performed first with the incision made in the fold of the lid.  The incision is made below the eyelash on the lower eyelid.  Any excess fat and skin are removed from the underlying compartments.  The amount of fat excised is determined by the degree of protrusion of fat when pressure is applied to the area.  Small sutures are used to close the incision and are made inside the lid. 

Post-Operative Information

Initially, drying of the eyes can occur after blepharoplasty.  This condition can be alleviated with medication.  In addition, you may be sensitive to bright light and wind for a period of time.  Numbness and itching may also occur during the healing process.  A final evaluation will occur within several months from the initial surgical procedure.