Eyelid Surgery | Blepharoplasty
Having droopy eyelids can affect your vision as well as your appearance. Whether your eyelids sag due to age, a medical condition, genetics or other reasons, we can help.
Many patients choose eyelid surgery — blepharoplasty — to improve the appearance and function of their eyelids — so they can look and feel their best.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces “puffy eyes” or bagginess in the lower or upper eyelids. The surgery aims to improve the [esthetics] of the eyelids and is typically done for cosmetic purposes.
However, blepharoplasty can greatly benefit any patients whose saggy upper eyelids disrupt their vision. Patients with floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) or medical conditions that cause FES may also be candidates for eyelid surgery.
Eyelid surgery does not address facial wrinkles, crow’s-feet, or dark circles underneath the eyes.
How is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
An oculoplastic surgeon will perform the surgery as an outpatient procedure, typically in a hospital setting.
Before the surgery, your doctor will administer medications and local anesthesia. During the procedure, incision lines will conceal any scars resulting from the surgery, which will fit the natural structures of your eyelid.
In most cases, the oculoplastic surgeon will remove or reposition fat deposits, tighten muscles, and/or remove excess skin through the incision made in your upper eyelid.
The incision for lower eyelids is hidden just below the lower lashes to ensure scarring is nearly invisible. Most incisions are closed with sutures or skin glue, which can be removed within a week. Some surgeons may also incorporate a laser or chemical peel to reduce discoloration of the lower eyelids.
Who is a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
Ideal candidates are adults who are in relatively good health and have realistic expectations of the procedure.
Blepharoplasty candidates are typically older than 35 years of age, are non-smokers and don’t have any serious eye conditions.
If you smoke, your eye doctor will discuss the next steps, as smoking lowers the blood supply to the surgical sites. This can harm the recovery from eyelid surgery and other oculoplastic procedures.
What To Expect Following Eyelid Surgery
After the procedure, your eyes will be covered with gauze for a short period of time in the doctor’s office. Your eye doctor may recommend using cold compresses or lubricating ointments to promote healing.
Your eyes may feel swollen, bruised or irritated during recovery, but will soon go back to normal to reveal a smoother, more well-defined, youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
Your eye doctor will provide instructions on how to care for your eyes and what medications to use following the blepharoplasty.
Within 6 weeks, you’ll be able to see the final result of the procedure.
Upper eyelid surgery often lasts a number of years, whereas lower eyelid surgery may need to be repeated more often. Results vary based on the age of the patient at the initial surgery.
What are Possible Complications of Eyelid Surgery?
Complications are very rare, but they can occur following eyelid surgery:
- Bleeding from the incisions
- Infection
- Dry eyes
- An abnormal coloring of the eyelids
- Eyelid skin that folds in or out
- The inability to close the eyelids completely
- A pulled-down lower lid lash line
- Loss of vision (rare)
- Eye pain
Some side effects and complications clear up within a week of surgery, while others may take a few weeks to resolve. Bruising and swelling usually take up to 2 weeks to subside.
Our Eye Doctors are Here for You
Whether you’re considering eyelid surgery for cosmetic or medical reasons, our expert eye surgeons will help you determine if blepharoplasty is right for you.
At your consultation, our staff will answer any questions you have about the procedure, so you’ll feel confident and informed about your decision.
To schedule your consultation, call Greenwich Ophthalmology Associates in Stamford today!