Eyelid
Surgery
Blepharoplasty
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids
INTRODUCTION
What is eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids.
Surgery can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids or both.
Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.
What eyelid surgery can treat
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Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision
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Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids
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Bags under the eyes
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Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
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Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid
Who is a good candidate for
eyelid surgery?
Good candidates for eyelid surgery include:
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Healthy individuals with no medical conditions that can impair healing
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Nonsmokers
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Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals
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Individuals without serious eye conditions
Remember that the eyelids are part of the face. The appearance of a drooping upper lid may also be due to relaxation of the forehead skin and eyebrow. Sometimes stretching out of the upper eyelid muscle may cause a drooping eyelid. This is called eyelid ptosis and requires a different surgical treatment.
Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy thoroughly and will discuss what procedures might best remedy your concerns.
Your Health & Safety
Before undergoing surgery requiring sedation or general anesthesia, a full medical history including diagnostic tests is recommended. Part of this medical history requires that you provide candid answers to questions about your general state of health, including:
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A full disclosure of health history including any illness, prior surgery of any kind and complications from prior surgery
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All types of allergies and any reaction to prior anesthesia
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Current medications, the use of vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
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The use of oral contraceptives by women
Before surgery, you must follow all of your plastic surgeon's instructions. This may include:
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Cessation of smoking
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Stop taking certain types of medications that may increase your risk of abnormal bleeding
On the day of surgery, you may be asked to:
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Avoid eating or drinking anything within a defined time period prior to surgery
Follow all postoperative instructions carefully, including cleansing and at-home treatment regimens, and avoid sun exposure. Your cooperation will influence the outcome of your surgery.
