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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
If you believe that your eyes are making you look tired, sad, or older than you really feel, cosmetic eyelid surgery (also called blepharoplasty) may be the right choice for you. Eyelid surgery can remove the excess fat and drooping skin of the upper eyelids, minimize bags under the eyes and tighten the lower eyelid skin. The result is a more alert and rested appearance.
The Best Candidates For Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
You may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery if you have any of the following conditions:
Upper Eyelids
• excess skin that hides the natural fold of the upper eyelids
• loose skin that hangs down from the upper eyelids
• puffiness in the upper eyelids that creates a tired look
Lower Eyelids
• excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelids
• puffy "bags" and, in some cases, dark circles
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Upper eyelids - typically the incision begins within the natural crease of the eye's inside corner and extends slightly beyond the outside corner into the crow's feet or laugh lines. Through this incision, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed. The incision line follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid and is camouflaged when healed.
Lower eyelids- usually the incision is concealed just below the lower lashes. Through this incision, excess skin, muscle and fat are removed. Your surgeon may also make special adjustments. For example, the fat beneath the eye can be redistributed to eliminate puffiness or bulges. In some patients, the underlying muscle will be tightened.
Dr. Rajagopal may decide that the best approach for removing fat from the lower eyelid is with a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. In this procedure, an incision is placed inside the lower eyelid. This technique requires no external incision, but it cannot be used to remove excess skin.
After Your Eyelid Surgery
When surgery is complete, you may experience any of the following:
- blurred vision - this temporary condition is caused by the ointment that may have been applied to lubricate and protect the eyes.
- tightness around the eyes - this sensation will diminish once the swelling goes down.
- discomfort - some discomfort is common after any type of operation. It can be controlled with pain medication prescribed by your physician. bruising and swelling - the amount and duration of swelling and bruising varies greatly among individuals.
Although everyone heals at a different rate, you can expect that your recovery will follow this general time line:
The first day:
• In this earliest stage of healing, it's important to rest with your head elevated.
• Cold compresses on the eyes reduce swelling.
Within the first week:
- Bruising around the eyes will reach its peak and then begin to fade.
- Healing may be accompanied by mildly blurred vision, excess tearing or dryness, light sensitivity or itching.
- You can begin to use makeup to conceal any discoloration.
- Stitches will be removed. You may resume most of your normal (non-strenuous) activities.
After several weeks:
• Most of the swelling will subside and you'll begin to see the final result.
• Any vision-related symptoms will disappear.
• You may resume vigorous exercise, including bending and lifting.
• You may resume wearing contact lenses.
If you have any questions regarding Eyelid Surgery, or wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rajagopal, please call the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at 415-392-3333.
