Eyelid Lift
(Blepharoplasty)

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If you have puffy, baggy tired-looking eyes, eyelid surgery may the answer to a more youthful look. Eyelid surgery can improve baggy lids and puffiness by removing excess skin and repositioning and/or removing excess fat.

Excess skin and droopiness of upper eyelids or puffiness in the lower eyelids can give you an older, sleepy appearance. For some, it is a result of aging skin. For others, it can be an inherited condition that causes them to seek surgery at an earlier age. Eyelid surgery, can remove fat, along with excess skin from the upper and lower eyelids, to produce a smoother, more rested appearance.

The Procedure

Incisions for eyelids surgery are made in the fold or crease of the upper eyelids and right at the lash line of the lower eyelids. Through these incision sites, the surgeon is able to eliminate skin and fat. Patients can have just upper eyelids done or can request that both upper and lower eyelid surgery be performed at the same time.

Upper eyelid surgery is often performed in conjunction with Forehead or Brow Lift. Chemical peel is often performed to compliment eyelid surgery by smoothing fine lines or “crows feet” in the outer eye corners, which eyelid surgery will not improve.

Who is a candidate for eyelid surgery?

• Men and women of all ages who want to rid themselves of droopy eyelid skin or fatty pockets in the upper or lower eyelids or both.
• Those who have difficulty seeing due to loose skin hanging from the upper eyelids that may be causing vision obstruction.
• Those with excess skin and fine, paper thin wrinkles of the eyelids

How will I look and feel after surgery?

• Following surgery your eyes may feel tight and sore. You will experience mild pain for a few days, which will be controlled with prescription oral pain medication.
• You will need to keep your head elevated for several days and use cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising, which can generally improve within two weeks, depending on the extent of your eyelid surgery.
• You will be shown how to care for your eyes during the first week, including eye drops for lubrication to alleviate any burning, or itching you may experience.
• In the first few weeks, you may have excessive tearing, some sensitivity to light and temporary blurred vision. Your physician will follow up with you regularly during the first several weeks to monitor your condition.
• Your stitches will be removed within five days after surgery, after which you’ll begin to notice a decrease in swelling and bruising.

When can I get back to my everyday routine?

• Most patients return to work within 10 days. However, if you leave the house before that time, it is recommended that you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the elements. Your eyes may still be sensitive to sunlight, wind and other irritants for several weeks.
• Activity should be minimal in the first few days and you should avoid strenuous activity, such as bending, lifting and sports, for three to four weeks.

Results of your eyelid surgery

The results of your surgery will last many years.

Your eyelid procedure will have you looking more rested, refreshed and alert. Healing can be a gradual process. Incisions may remain pink for up to six months or more but eventually fade to a thin, nearly invisible line. 

Do keep in mind that eyelid surgery has its limitations and will NOT improve crow's feet, droopy eyebrows or frown lines. To improve these conditions, your surgeon may recommend additional procedures such as forehead/brow lift, and wrinkle treatments such as skin peels or injectable fillers. 

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE

• There are risks associated with any surgical procedure.
• The specific risks and suitability of each procedure for a given individual can only be determined at the time of consultation. 
• Minor complications that do not affect the outcome may occasionally occur.
• Major complications are rare.
• Your plastic surgeon will review any and all risks and benefits with you during a private consultation.