What is Eyelid Surgery

Why should you undergo blepharoplasty?

Eyelid surgery is conducted on the upper or lower eyelids and involves an eyelid lift with selective fat removal. The surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia in an outpatient setting with no overnight hospital stay. The goal is to remove excess eyelid skin which can produce a “hooding” effect that may interfere with vision, address slight drooping of the eyelids, or treat bags and dark circles under the eyes.

With upper lid blepharoplasty, you can expect an incision just above your eyelashes, over the upper lid, and leaving a fold above the eye for an area to apply makeup. For the lower lids, the incision will be hidden underneath the eyelashes to provide a nice contour. The key to this surgery is being conservative and doing only what is necessary.

Although frequently done for aesthetic reasons, you can have the procedure for functional reasons. For instance, you might consider eyelid surgery if droopy eyelids are keeping your eyes from opening completely or pulling down your lower eyelids. Removing excess tissue in your upper eyelids can improve your vision and, at the same time, make your eyes look younger and more alert.

Blepharoplasty is for you if you have:

• Baggy or droopy upper eyelids
• Baggy or droopy brow (brow ptosis)
• Excess skin in the upper eyelids that interferes with peripheral vision
• Bags under your eyes
• Excess skin on the lower eyelids

Eyelid surgery can performed at the same time as another procedure, such as face-lift, brow-lift or skin re-surfacing.

What risks are involved?

Blepharoplasty is generally well tolerated by patients. Successful operations done by an experienced plastic surgeon will enhance the appearance of the eye area, producing a more youthful and rested look. However, it is considered a major surgery, so you should think carefully about your specific expectations and goals.

Complications are rare, but after the operation you can expect some swelling and bruising that lasts about 2 to 6 weeks. An over-resection of the upper eyelid skin can result in dry eye symptoms if the eyes do not close correctly. In some cases, over-resection of the lower eyelid skin occurs, leading to ectropion, an inversion of the lower lid that causes irritation. Also, undergoing both upper and lower eyelid surgery can cause unwanted changes in the lateral corners of the eyes.

Satisfying results

Blepharoplasty rejuvenates the upper and lower eyelids through the removal or repositioning of excess skin and fat. It gets rid of loose or sagging skin folds that create a heavy eyelid, eradicates excess fatty deposits, and eliminates the puffiness around the eyelids that create bags under the eyes. The final result is a more relaxed, refreshed and youthful appearance. When surgery is done for functional reasons, patients are usually able to see better when driving or reading at night.

You may schedule a consultation with me by calling (813) 542-2587. For more information on face rejuvenation, eyelid surgery and other plastic surgery procedures, visit the Politis Plastic Surgery website.