As we age, our skin loses its natural tautness and begins to sag. When this happens around the eyes, it produces two undesirable effects. The first is cosmetic; it makes you appear tired or inattentive. The second is physical, causing irritable, dry eyes and vision impairment. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you might be a candidate for Blepharoplasty.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, sometimes called a “brow-lift,” is a plastic eyelid surgery that corrects puffing and sagging skin around the eyes. Blepharoplasty removes excess fat, muscle, and skin, resulting in unimpaired vision and a healthier, youthful appearance.
Who Is Blepharoplasty For?
If you are experiencing any of the following conditions, are in good health, and do not smoke, you are probably a good candidate for Blepharoplasty:
- Sagging skin causing folds or drooping in the upper or lower eyelid
- Puffiness in the upper eyelid due to excess fat deposits
- Bags under the eyes or droopiness of the lower eyelids
How Is Blepharoplasty Performed?
Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure. You will be put under general anesthesia for the duration of the operation.
During the surgery, the plastic surgeon makes tiny incisions in the natural folds of the eyelids, concealing the visible evidence of the procedure while the patient completes their recovery process.
Working within the incisions, the excess skin/fat causing the problem is removed. Skin and muscle tissue that has been sagging is strengthened and tightened. The result is healthier-looking eyes and unimpaired vision. Once the eyelid surgery has been completed and you have awakened, you are free to go home, as long as someone can drive you home.
How Long Does Blepharoplasty Take?
Blepharoplasty typically lasts from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how many procedures are being performed during the session. The procedure will be a little different for each patient, and the extent of the work needing to be done determines the length of the procedure.
Recovery From Blepharoplasty
There is usually no need for the eyes to be bandaged after Blepharoplasty eyelid surgery. Immediately following treatment, your vision will be blurry, so it is essential that you have someone available to drive them home after the procedure. The blurriness of vision will continue for about a week because there are tiny stitches in the eyelids.
Your doctor may prescribe eye lubricant, which may also temporarily blur your vision. Be sure to follow any post-op instructions provided by your surgeon concerning sunscreen and cosmetics. Avoid rubbing your eyes, even though they will probably feel dry and itchy sometimes.
The best thing to do during this period is to rest and avoid strenuous activity and vision-critical work such as cooking or driving. Do not wear contact lenses. Sunglasses are recommended.
Here are a few things you can do to make recovery easier for yourself:
- Keep a comfortable ice pack and an ample supply of ice cubes handy
- Stock up on sterile gauze pads for any stray fluids
- You might want to get soothing eye drops for dry eyes; consult with your surgeon
- You’ll want some over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol or generic); not aspirin or Ibuprofen
Finding The Right Plastic Surgeon
Finding the right plastic surgeon is essential in ensuring the best outcome possible. Both you and your surgeon should have a clear idea of what needs to be done to achieve the desired result.
You should have complete confidence in your surgeon’s credentials, experience, and bedside manner. Be honest about your medical history and current health. Your plastic surgeon should be frank and clear about their surgical plan, your recovery regimen, and the probable outcome.
How Can I Get Started?
Dr. James Aronovitz is board-certified and a member of the American Academy of Facial and Plastic Reconstructive Surgery with over 25 years of experience with Facial and Reconstructive surgeries.
If you think you might be a candidate for Blepharoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Aronovitz today!