A blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids and surrounding area. The muscles that hold up our eyelids tire as we get older, making our eyelids droop. Consequently, the skin and fat around your eyes begin to sag.
In addition to the biological effects of aging on the eye, sagging skin around the eyes, particularly in the top and outer regions, may cause a loss of peripheral vision. This can occur in conjunction with the expected effects of aging on the eye. Blepharoplasty may prevent specific vision issues entirely or at least significantly improve them. The operation has the potential to make the eyes appear more awake as well.
When Considering Blepharoplasty
Factors to consider before committing to a blepharoplasty procedure include:
● Surgery on the upper eyelids can be done separately from that on the lower eyelids. However, if you are looking at an upper and lower blepharoplasty, they may also be done at the same time.
● Likewise, consider the monetary cost. Cosmetic surgery is rarely reimbursed by public or private health insurance.
● Problems arise more often for smokers. If having surgery is your goal, you should quit smoking.
Who Should Consider Blepharoplasty Surgery?
One must be in good health and have specific aesthetic goals to gain any benefit from an eye lift. While most patients are above 35, younger patients may consider surgery if they have a family history of droopy or baggy eyelids.
A boost in confidence is possible after having eyelid surgery. Even so, it might not alter your appearance as you’d like. Before deciding to have surgery, you must consider why you want it and discuss your reasons with your doctor.
Preparing For Surgery
A consultation with a doctor is typically necessary before scheduling a blepharoplasty operation. You may consult with a plastic surgeon or an ophthalmologist specializing in cosmetic procedures for the eye area. Your consultation will include the following topics:
● Medical History: Your current health and the outcomes of any previous surgeries may influence the type of anesthesia utilized during this treatment. If you have preexisting medical conditions, including but not limited to glaucoma, dry eye, wet eye, a detached retina, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or other circulatory abnormalities, you must inform your surgeon before surgery. Questions will be asked concerning the use of all substances, legal and illegal, as well as prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, and tobacco.
● Your Intent and Goals: A positive surgical outcome is more likely if you and your surgeon discuss your goals and objectives before the operation. Your doctor should tell you whether or not they think the procedure will be effective.
● Eyelid Photography: Taking multiple photographs from various vantage points aids surgical planning and provides evidence of a medical need that may be used to validate an insurance claim.
● Additional Instructions: To ensure that you are ready for surgery, your surgeon will provide detailed preparation instructions to follow at home. One example is medicine or changes to the dosing of currently prescribed medication. Follow all instructions provided carefully.
Blepharoplasty Surgery Procedure
Timewise, a simultaneous lift of the upper and lower eyelids may take up to two hours. Typically, your doctor will use a combination of local anesthesia and IV anesthesia to ensure a comfortable surgical experience.
The top lids are the most likely to be the first to be operated on during a procedure involving the upper and lower lids. The natural folds of your eyelids will serve as guides for the incisions. These cuts will allow your surgeon to remove excess fat and skin. After that, the surgeon will use very small stitches to seal the wounds. The lower lid incision is typically along the lash line and is usually undetectable once healed. The stitches in your upper and lower eyelids will need to stay in place for a week.
Post-Procedure
Your eyes will most likely be treated with ointment to keep them moist and cold compresses while you are in the recovery area. The ointment applied right after surgery may temporarily make your eyes more sensitive to light and obscure your vision. In some cases, you may experience watery or dry eyes.
Resting the first night after surgery is best accomplished by keeping one’s head raised and applying cold packs to one’s eyes. Your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions for self-care.
Recovery And Results
There will be sutures in both eyelids, and they will need to stay in place for at least a week after the procedure. Swelling and bruising around your eyes are common side effects that should go away within a week or two.
Seven to 10 years is a standard success rate for upper eyelid surgery. Rarely does a patient require a second lower eyelid surgery, but remember, your eyes will still age normally even after therapy. If your upper eyelids continue to droop, your doctor may suggest a forehead lift instead of another eye lift.
Takeaway
An eyelid lift can be a game-changer for those experiencing sagging upper lid skin or puffy under-eye bags. Though you’ll feel better quickly, the incisions may take up to a year to fully heal, so don’t expect to see the final results in many weeks. If you’re considering plastic surgery and want a consultation or more information, you can reach the Aesthetic Center of Plastic Surgery anytime. We provide non-surgical options in addition to surgical ones in case you’re not comfortable with the idea of surgery.