What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty
refers to eyelid surgery and is designed to remove the excess fat,
along with skin and muscle, from the upper and lower eyelids. It is
the second most common aesthetic procedure performed by plastic surgeons.
What are the goals of blepharoplasty?
A
properly performed blepharoplasty procedure will brighten the face
and restore a more youthful appearance. In some patients the procedure
will improve vision by removing the excessive skin of the upper eyelids
which can hang down and interfere with peripheral vision.
How is the procedure performed?
Eyelid
surgery is usually performed using local anesthesia and light intravenous
sedation. It is commonly done in a doctor s office, outpatient surgical
center or, in some cases, in a hospital. The procedure is most often
performed on an outpatient basis.
Are there scars from the blepharoplasty procedure?
Scars
are a result of any surgical procedure. The incisions made to accomplish
the goals of the procedure are barely visible after several months
as they are placed within the normal creases and folds of the upper
and lower eyelids. In patients who only need removal of fat from the
lower eyelids, the incision can be made on the inside of the eyelid,
and will therefore result in an invisible scar.
Will the fine wrinkles around my eyes go away after blepharoplasty?
What about my sagging eyebrows and dark circles under my eyes?
The
blepharoplasty procedure will not eradicate the wrinkles around the
eyes (crow s feet) nor will it elevate droopy eyebrow. There are other
procedures designed for these purposes. Dark circles under the eyes
may improve a bit if this is related to large bags , but most often
the dark appearance of the lower eyelid skin remains.
Can anyone have a blepharoplasty?
The
best patients are those who are healthy, psychologically stable and
well motivated. Some medical conditions may increase the risk of blepharoplasty
surgery such as thyroid disease, high blood pressure, and patients
who do not make sufficient tears to keep their eyes well lubricated.
What are the risks involved with this procedure?
Fortunately,
when performed by a competent plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent
and minor. All patients will experience some bruising and swelling
for a few days after the surgery. In addition, a temporary problem
with closure of the eyelids is usually seen. Some may have temporary
blurring of their vision, usually due to the ointments applied to
the incisions post operatively. In rare instances, the lower eyelid
may be pulled down causing an ectropion. If this does not resolve
on its own, further surgery may be necessary. The theoretical complications
of any surgical procedure, such as bleeding, infection, wound disruption
and heavy scarring are also possible, but rare.
