Eye

What is blepharoplasty?

Also referred to as eyelid surgery, blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removing excess skin and repositioning the skin above and/or below the eye to create a rejunivated look and prevent blockage of the peripheral vision.

What does blepharoplasty improve?

Aging causes skin to lose its volume and elasticity, causing it to sag over the eyes or lead to bags under the eyes.

Eyelid surgery can:

  • Reduce the folds above and to the sides of the eyes that may block vision.
  • Remove fat that creates puffiness around eyes.
  • Reduce the sagging skin and fat that create bags under the eyes (though dark circles can best be addressed with laser treatment or a chemical peel).
  • Address excess skin under the eyes that causes wrinkling.

How is the procedure performed?

Each procedure is individualized according to a patient's specific needs, but a brow lift  requires anesthesia. A procedure on the upper eyelid involves an incision in the natural crease of the eye, before fat and tissue are repositioned and excess skin is removed. For a procedure on the lower lid, an incision can be made just below the lower lash or on the inside of the lower eyelid, depending on the goals of the procedure.
Incisions are usually closed with adhesives or sutures.

What are the risks?

  • Anesthesia risks
  • Infection
  • Bleeding at incisions
  • Dryness to the eye
  • Pain and/or swelling
  • Light sensitivity
  • Difficulty closing eyes
  • Lid lag or vision changes (usually temporary)
  • Unwanted scarring

What can be expected after the surgery?

Will I have bandages/drainage tubes?
Your eye area may be treated with cold compresses and lubricating ointment, and possibly loose gauze.

How soon return to work?
All cases are different, but most patients are healed enough to look presentable within 14 days. It could take months to heal completely.

How soon achieved results?

It will take several weeks, possibly months, to achieve final results.

Is eyelid surgery covered by insurance?

Blepharoplasty is generally a cosmetic surgery and is not covered by insurance companies.