Eyelid Plastic Surgery, also known as Blepharoplasty
What You Need to Know About Eyelid Surgery
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During the initial eyelid (technically known as blepharoplasty) consultation, you may be asked to look in a mirror and point out exactly what you would like to see improved. This will help our plastic surgeon, Dr. Glassman, to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved through a eyelid/blepharoplasty plastic surgery procedure
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history including previous surgeries, past and present medical conditions and current medications. It is important for you to provide complete information to Dr. Glassman and his associates. High blood pressure, thyroid problems, diabetes, etc. should be reviewed as these medical conditions may increase some risks associated with eyelid surgery.
Dr. Glassman will want to know if you have allergies, especially if they affect your eyes. He may ask whether you have ever tried and were unable to wear contact lenses.
It will be necessary for our plastic surgeon, Dr. Glassman, to know if you were ever told by an ophthalmologist that you have a condition called “dry eye” or if you have any other problems with your eyes.
One of several surgical techniques may be suggested to improve the appearance of your eyelids.
The particular technique that your eyelid/blepharoplasty plastic surgeon recommends will depend on many factors such as the amount of excess fat and skin in the eyelid areas, the position of your eyebrows, and the condition of muscles around your eyelids.
before
after
Because of individual factors, not everyone will achieve the same results from eyelid/blepharoplasty surgery. Dr. Glassman will select the eyelid/blepharoplasty surgical technique that he feels will obtain the best outcome for you.
Upper Eyelids
For upper eyelid surgery, generally an incision is hidden within the natural fold of the upper eyelid and extends slightly beyond the outside corner into the laugh lines or other existing creases. Through this incision, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed. Because the blepharoplasty incision follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid, it usually is inconspicuous.
before
incision
Lower Eyelids
For lower eyelid surgery, often an incision is hidden just below the lower lashes. Through this incision, excess skin, muscle and fat are removed, or fat may be redistributed to eliminate puffiness or bulges. Other adjustments to correct special problems such as muscle laxity may be performed. As in upper eyelid/blepharoplasty surgery, placement of the incision in natural crease lines allows for the scar to usually heal in an inconspicuous fashion.
before
after
In some cases, you and your surgeon may decide that the best approach for removing excess fat is through an incision placed inside the lower eyelid. This technique requires no external incision, but it cannot be used to remove excess skin. A laser may sometimes be used in conjunction with this method to tighten the lower eyelid skin.
Your blepharoplasty surgery may be performed in a hospital, free-standing ambulatory center in Jacksonville or office-based surgical suite.
Medications are administered for your comfort during the cosmetic eyelid surgical procedure. Frequently, local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used for patients undergoing eyelid surgery/blepharoplasty, although general anesthesia may be desirable in some instances. For your safety during the operation, various monitors are used to check your heart, blood pressure, pulse and the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood.
When your blepharoplasty cosmetic surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. Your vision will be blurry as a result of ointment used to soothe and protect the eye during surgery as well as from the swelling that is a normal aftermath of eyelid procedures. There should be surprisingly little discomfort, however, from the eyelid/blepharoplasty surgery.
You probably will be permitted to go home after a short period of observation, although some patients may stay overnight in the hospital or surgical facility after their blepharoplasty procedure.
It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.
The first few days after surgery, you should rest quietly with your head elevated. Dr. Glassman may instruct you to apply cold compresses to your eyelids. Remember, you must not take aspirin or certain anti-inflammatory medications.
Initially, you may feel a “tight” sensation around the eyes and some mild discomfort that can be controlled with oral medication. During the first 48 hours following eyelid surgery, patients experience varying degrees of swelling and bruising. Some patients find that mild swelling persist for several weeks, while others may see swelling resolve in as little as one week. Bruising typically disappears within seven to ten days. Within the first week or so, you will be permitted to use makeup, if desired, to conceal any discoloration. Stitches are usually removed within a week of the blepharoplasty surgery.
Your vision may continue to be somewhat blurry for a few days or longer. Your eyes may be temporarily sensitive to light, and you may experience excess tearing or dryness. Some plastic surgeons, as well as Dr. Glassman, may recommend eye drops to help relieve any burning or itching. You may want to wear dark sunglasses for a couple of weeks to protect your eyes from wind and sun irritation. Straining, bending and lifting should be avoided during the early postoperative period. In many instances, you will be able to resume most of your normal activities within ten days or less. Although you might feel like going back to work just a few days after your eyelid procedure, your vision may still be slightly blurry which could make reading or other paperwork more difficult.
For more information about eyelid surgery, please contact the Glassman Plastic Surgery office today. We’ll set up a consultation with Dr. Glassman where he can address your questions and concerns.
More Information About Eyelid Cosmetic Surgery
Here are some helpful links to help you plan for and learn more about eyelid surgery:
Eyelid Cosmetic Surgery from American Society of Plastic Surgeons Web Site
Eyelid Cosmetic Surgery from The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Web Site
