During the normal aging process, the eyes may be the first region noticeably affected. This is due to the development of saggy, unsupported, fatty tissues which give the eyes a bulging and unattractive appearance (puffy eyes). The upper or lower eyelids can be affected either alone or both sets simultaneously. These unfavorable features can be reversed with blepharoplasty which is, once performed successfully, relatively uncomplicated for the patient. A careful examination in our office is critical in order to decide, with the patient, which particular technique of the eyelid lift procedure is most appropriate.
Blepharoplasty is one of the most successful procedures for rejuvenating the area around the eyes and it can enhance a youthful glow of one’s face. The recovery time is generally about one week.
During the cosmetic blepharoplasty, precise amounts of fat and skin are re-positioned and removed for improved eyelid symmetry, definition and sculpture. The goal of a blepharoplasty is a natural, improved look. The cosmetic eyelid lift may address the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both, along with tightening of involved muscle structures.
About the Procedure
Eyelid lifts are routinely performed as an outpatient procedure in our offices. Usually, relaxing medication is administered beforehand to help the patient be comfortable. Alternatively, the procedure can be performed under intravenous sedation (twilight sleep), usually only if the eyelid lift is combined with other facial cosmetic procedures. Generally, we prefer to avoid general anesthesia.
After the eyelid skin has been numbed, skin, muscle and fat will be removed, lifted, and repositioned for the most pleasing and natural eyelid appearance. Using these accurate procedures, bleeding is minimal even before little capillaries have been sealed, leading to limited subsequent bruising and swelling. All incisions are then patiently closed with tiny sutures.
Excess fat in the lower eyelid may be removed through a small incision right underneath the eyelashes. One advantage is the ability to remove some skin for a smoother, less wrinkly appearance. Most patients can benefit from a conservative reduction of extra skin in this region. Alternatively, the incision can be placed through the inside lining of the eye in rare cases where extra skin is not a concern.
The Blepharoplasty procedure takes from one-to-two hours, depending upon the extent of the areas to be treated.
Your Initial Consultation
During your visit, we will thoroughly examine your face with its special characteristics as it pertains to aesthetics and function. In particular, we will focus on the region around the eyes. Important aspects to consider are the position of your eyebrows, extent of extra eyelid skin and fat, quality of lower eyelid skin, and support of the lower eyelids themselves.
If the support structures of the lower eyelids are not adequate, a lid tightening procedure (canthoplasty or canthopexy) may be necessary. Also, existing eye conditions such as dry eyes and interference of the eyelids with your visual fields are of importance. Eyelid lifts can be performed as separate procedures or in combination with other cosmetic facial procedures such as browlifts (either as part of the blepharoplasty or as a separate procedure), face lifts or skin resurfacing.
Before your procedure, you will receive specific and important instructions on how to best prepare for your procedure, what to expect and how to care for your eyelids afterward.
Learn more
To learn more about eyelid lifts and to find out if you’re a candidate, use the buttons below to schedule an appointment with a clinician that offers this procedure or give us a call at: (978) 759-4033