Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the eyes. Blepharoplasty is commonly referred to as an “eyelid lift”. The goal of Blepharoplasty is to give the eyes a more rested and youthful appearance without disturbing the function of the delicate eyelid anatomy. Aging eyes are a very common cosmetic problem and often are a familial trait. The eyes are considered to be “the windows to the soul.” When performed well, Blepharoplasty can transform the facial appearance.
Aging eyes are typically the result of a weakening of the support structures of the eyelids with the bulging of the fat normally found around the eyes. Excessive skin may or may not be contributing to the aged appearance of the eyes. There may also be fine lines and creases around the eyes, which most patients consider undesirable.
Blepharoplasty is a very patient-specific procedure, and not all patients are good candidates. For this reason, careful evaluation by an experienced surgeon is vital. Traditional Blepharoplasty incisions are concealed within the normal creases of the eyelids, or sometimes behind the lower eyelids. Complimentary procedures such as laser or chemical peeling of the skin around the eyes, or Botox® injections to eliminate crow’s feet may be discussed with you to enhance your overall aesthetic result.
Tips to remember:
- Be sure to inform the physician of any eye problems that you may have such as dry eyes, excessive tearing, previous eye surgery, glaucoma, etc.
- The procedure is performed in our office procedure room or can also be performed in the hospital operating room under a general anesthetic.
- Someone will need to take you home following the procedure.
- You will be given prescriptions for an antibiotic and pain reliever either before or the day of the procedure. You will also be prescribed an antibiotic eye drop and ointment to be used post-operatively.
- We will sometimes give a sedative for use the night before the procedure. Sutures are removed at 5-7 days post-operatively. Suture lines are generally visible for up to 6 weeks following the Blepharoplasty. Basic eye make-up will easily cover the suture lines and can be used at 7-10 days after the procedure.
- No aspirin products or ibuprofen should be used for 2 weeks prior to the procedure.
Following your Blepharoplasty:
- Eye pads soaked in ice water will be placed on your eyes to help reduce swelling and bruising. We recommend their use for 48 hours after the procedure.
- Your vision will be blurry for 24-36 hours following the procedure due to swelling and the use of eye ointment. Complete visual loss is extremely rare and should be reported to the physician immediately.
- A small amount of blood tinged drainage from the eyes and suture lines is expected post-operatively.
- You should try to sleep with the head elevated (lounge chair or 2-3 pillows) for 72 hours following the procedure.
- No contact lenses should be used for 1 week following the procedure. Avoid eyeglasses or sunglasses that rest on the cheeks.
- Take your pain medication as needed and your antibiotics as directed. Keep the incision lines moist with the prescribed ointment at all times while healing.
- Returning to work is somewhat patient specific. We normally recommend 1-2 weeks off work. Return can be sooner is the job does not involve strenuous activity. No heavy exercise for 2 weeks.
- There is always a doctor available 24 hours a day if you should have a problem during your recovery period.
