The eyelid correction or blepharoplasty is a procedure designed to remove excess fat and skin from the upper and/or lower eyelids. It improves droopy upper eyelids and puffy bags below the eyes, features that may make you look older and more tired than you feel. It may be combined with an eyebrow lift to correct drooping eyebrows.
The incision for the upper eyelid is usually made along the eyelid crease. The incision for the lower eyelid may be made inside the lower eyelid, avoiding external scars (transconjunctival) or externally just below the eyelashes. Excess skin along the outside of the lower eyelid region may be “tightened” with additional procedures such as chemical peel or ablative laser.
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Who is a Candidate?
- If you have excessive, sagging or wrinkled upper or lower eyelid skin.
- If you have excess upper eyelid skin that interferes with vision.
- If you have lost your natural upper eyelid crease.
- If you have puffy pouches of fat in the upper or lower eyelids that create a tired or aged appearance.
Intended Result
- A more youthful and rested appearance of the eyes.
- Widening of visual fields if excessive upper eyelid skin has partially blocked vision.
Procedure Description
- The operation is usually done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia alone or conscious sedation.
- The incisions are made where the natural crease should be in the upper eyelids. Excess fat and skin are removed.
- The incision for the lower eyelids is usually inside the lower lids, avoiding external incisions and scar (transconjunctival).
- If there is significant “laxity” of the lower eyelid, a canthopexy or tightening procedure may be done at the same time. The incision is along the outer portion of the lid just below the eyelash line.
Recuperation and Healing
- All sutures are usually removed within 7 days.
- Initial discomfort is usually mild and controlled with oral medication.
- Bruising and sensitivity to light usually subside within 1-2 weeks.
- Swelling usually disappears within 2 weeks.
- Eye makeup may be used following suture removal and healing of the incisions.
- Contact lenses can be worn when comfortable and sutures have been removed-usually 7-10 days.
Note
The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can only be determined at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.