Blepharoplasty

About the Procedure

The procedure is usually performed in an office with local anesthesia in as little as 45 minutes. During the procedure, incisions are made along the eyelids in inconspicuous places; they are made in the creases of the upper lids and just below the lashes on the lower lids. The surgeon removes excess tissue through these incisions and then stitches them closed with fine sutures. If no skin needs to be removed, the surgeon will likely perform a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, in which the incision is made inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scars. Combine this procedure with a facelift or BOTOX® treatments to raise the eyebrows or reduce the appearance of wrinkles, crow’s feet, or dark circles under the eyes.

Concerns That Blepharoplasty Surgeons Address

Whether you are researching blepharoplasty for functional or aesthetic reasons, understanding the available solutions is a key step. The right plastic surgery provider will work closely with you to help you understand how this procedure will help you look and feel your best. Blepharoplasty addresses a range of concerns, including:

• Sagging upper eyelids
• Puffiness from excess fat deposits
• Under-eye bags and swelling
• Loose or crepey lower eyelid skin
• Impaired vision due to drooping skin
• A tired or aged eye appearance

Types of Blepharoplasty Procedures

The different types of blepharoplasty procedures include upper, lower, and transconjunctival blepharoplasty. An upper eyelid surgery involves removing excess skin and fat to help with hooding and obstructed vision. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness; transconjunctival blepharoplasty is ideal for patients with under-eye fat but minimal excess skin. The cosmetic surgeon helps hide the incision inside the eyelid, providing a more natural look.

Determining If You Are a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty

There are several factors that a plastic surgeon will evaluate when determining if you are a good candidate for a blepharoplasty. Having good overall health is a key qualifying factor; you should not have uncontrolled medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. If you have active eye conditions or diseases, this may also affect your candidacy. 

Having healthy skin elasticity is also necessary. Good skin elasticity will allow the remaining skin to tighten once the excess tissue is removed. Fragile or thinning skin may struggle to re-drape smoothly over the surgical area, which affects the cosmetic outcome. Your plastic surgeon will discuss all of this information with you beforehand; this will allow you to determine if a blepharoplasty will achieve your desired results or if other treatment options need to be explored. 

Blepharoplasty Recovery Process

Recovery after blepharoplasty is straightforward and carefully monitored by your plastic surgeon. Before leaving the office, patients will get detailed post-procedure instructions to help support proper healing. Reach out to a family member or friend to get a ride home after the surgery.

Swelling and bruising will be the most noticeable during the first few days of healing. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated will help minimize inflammation. Tightness around the eyelids is also normal; your eyes may feel dry or sensitive. Some patients will be able to return to desk work or light activities with a week, although strenuous exercises like heavy lifting should be avoided. Do not use contact lenses shortly after the procedure to help protect the delicate eye tissues.

Plastic surgeons will place incision lines within the natural creases of the eyelids or inside the lower lids. This helps them to be more discreet, especially as healing progresses. Your blepharoplasty surgeons will remain available throughout the recovery process to monitor your progress and answer any questions. 

Work With a Plastic Surgeon Today

Blepharoplasty is typically performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. They understand the different variables that affect eyelid anatomy and facial aesthetics, helping to provide long-lasting and attractive results. To complement your blepharoplasty, you may also explore other options like rhytidectomy, rhinoplasty, and browplasty. Contact the team at Somerset Plastic Surgery today to learn more about our available plastic surgery solutions.