Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is plastic or aesthetic surgery of the eyelids. In this common procedure, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed from around the eyes. Drooping eyebrows can also be corrected at the same time.
Blepharoplasty can be done to improve both visual function and cosmetic appearance. Excessive upper eyelid tissue can block the upper field of vision. Correction of overhanging skin folds will improve the function of the upper eyelid and peripheral vision. Even if vision is not affected, blepharoplasty may be performed to improve a sagging, tired appearance.
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The skin below the eye brow sags, causing a loss in the definition of the eyelid and a tired look. |
After removal of excess tissue, the eye lids regain their definition, resulting in a younger more energetic look. |
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Due to the effects of the sun, diet, pollutants, gravity, heredity and poor skin care, the skin around the eyes begins to loosen and relax. Over time, sagging occurs from the force of gravity pulling on the eyelid tissue. Changes also occur in the fatty tissue located just beneath the skin. These normally firm fat pads begin to protrude, causing bulges or "bags" to form under the eyes.
In addition to changes in appearance and a limited field of vision, excess eyelid tissue can also cause physical discomfort. The weight of the excess eyelid tissue may cause brow ache and fatigue. In some cases, excess skin may cause the eyelashes to turn in and irritate the eye.
Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed from around the eyes. Upper and lower incision lines are marked along the natural skin folds of the eyelids. The fine incisions made are hidden in the natural skin folds or lash lines of the eyelids and are almost invisible during healing. In some cases, with surgery of the lower eyelids, an incision is made on the underside of the eyelid so it is completely invisible during healing.
Blepharoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, depending on the amount of reconstruction needed, the patient's preference, and their health. Quiet rest with the head elevated is usually recommended after surgery to relieve any soreness and discomfort. Cold compresses may be applied to reduce swelling and bruising which may last several days. You will need to clean the area around the eye during healing and in some cases eye drops may be recommended. Where fine sutures are used they either dissolve on their own or are removed a few days after surgery.
The results of plastic eyelid surgery can be quit dramatic. However, the final outcome depends on many factors including the extent of reconstructive work required, the patient's skin structure and age, and the healing process.
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