What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, can be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. This procedure can help to reduce the appearance of puffiness, bags under the eyes and sagging skin that can cause difficulty seeing. It can also give you a more well-rested and youthful look. Blepharoplasty is a safe and effective outpatient procedure.

Who is a candidate for blepharoplasty?

Good candidates for blepharoplasty include those who:

• have eyes that appear sad or fatigued rather than expressing inner vitality
• have sagging skin that causes difficulty seeing
• are healthy with no medical conditions that can impair healing
• do not smoke
• have a positive outlook and realistic goals
• do not have serious eye conditions

Individuals who are not good candidates for blepharoplasty include those who:

• Have active eye infections or inflammation
• Have thyroid eye disease
• Have a history of dry eye syndrome
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are considering blepharoplasty, it is important to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your individual needs and goals. The surgeon will evaluate your eyelids and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.

What to expect

Before your blepharoplasty

• Get lab testing or a medical evaluation.
• Undergo a visual field study done by your ophthalmologist.
• Follow your doctor's instructions to stop smoking and adjust or stop taking certain medications.
• Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding and bruising.

During your blepharoplasty

• Your procedure will take one to two hours to complete.
• A lubricating ointment and cold compress may be applied to your eyes.
• In some cases, your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze.

After your blepharoplasty

• You may experience mild pain, swelling and bruising that will fade in seven to 10 days.
• Avoid exercise and heavy lifting.
• Avoid sun exposure and use sun protection measures, such as wearing darkly tinted sunglasses until the healing process is complete.
• Non-absorbable sutures will be removed in five to seven days; absorbable sutures will dissolve on their own.
• It may take a few months before the final healing is complete.

Benefits of blepharoplasty

If you are considering blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, there are several benefits you may experience after the procedure:

• Improved vision. Blepharoplasty can help to improve vision by removing excess skin and fat that may be obstructing the field of vision. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with drooping upper eyelids or sagging lower eyelids.
• Enhanced appearance. Blepharoplasty can help to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance by reducing the appearance of puffiness, wrinkles, and sagging skin around the eyes. This can lead to a boost in self-confidence and an overall improvement in self-esteem.
• Long-lasting results. Blepharoplasty is a long-lasting procedure that can provide results for many years. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of your surgery without having to worry about the need for repeat procedures.