Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is performed to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both. While the exact type of surgery and recovery time vary for each individual, most patients experience little pain during surgery, are presentable to the public in less than two weeks and report a full recovery within a few months.
One of the more common types of facial surgery, eyelid surgery can be a reconstructive or cosmetic procedure.
Eyelid surgery is used to improve various conditions, including:
Although eyelid surgery is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure, it is also used to help treat functional problems of the eyelids. For example, skin in the upper eyelid area can start to sag and create folds that can disturb the natural shape of the eye and sometimes impair vision.
If you are experiencing any of these conditions, are a healthy individual and do not have a serious eye condition, you may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery at Hattiesburg Clinic. Our plastic surgeons are happy to discuss the best approach whether you are looking for an eyelid lift, laser eyelid surgery or other types of treatment.
The procedure starts with anesthesia, either through intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. You and your doctor will discuss the best choice for you.
The upper eyelid can be corrected through an incision within the natural crease on the eyelid. This allows for removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles and removal of excess skin. Conditions of the lower eyelid may be corrected with an incision just below the lower lash line. Through this incision, excess skin in the lower eyelid is removed. Again, the excess fat can be repositioned or removed. These incision lines for eyelid surgery are designed so the scars which result from the surgery will be well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region.
A transconjunctival incision, a technique where the incision is created on the inside of the lower eyelid, is an alternate technique to correct lower eyelid conditions and redistribute or remove excess fat. With this technique, no skin is removed. Eyelid incisions are typically closed with sutures or skin glue. Sutures are removed within one week.
Your surgeon may also suggest the use of a laser or chemical peel to reduce discoloration of the lower eyelids.
The results of eyelid surgery will appear gradually as swelling and bruising subside to reveal a smooth, better-defined eyelid and surrounding region, and a more alert and rejuvenated appearance.
Good candidates for eyelid surgery include:
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.
Recovery from surgery is different for everyone. Your plastic surgeon may direct you to apply lubricating ointment and cold compresses to the area. In some cases, you may have to cover your eyes loosely with gauze after your procedure is completed.
You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for your eyes, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your overall health and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.
Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses and ointment. Irritation at the incision sites is also possible.
Your plastic surgeon will provide specific guidance to you as to what you can expect during your individual recovery period, including but not limited to:
The results of eyelid surgery should be long-lasting. While there usually is little pain involved in this surgery, there can be swelling or bruising. Most patients are presentable to the public in 10 to 14 days; however, it may take a few months before final healing is completed.
While eyelid surgery can be expected to correct certain conditions permanently, you will continue to age naturally. Ongoing sun protection will help to maintain your results.
Although good results are expected from your procedure, there is no guarantee. There are risks in any surgical procedure. In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedure and another surgery may be necessary. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you during your consultation.
Following your post-operative instructions is essential to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions not be subjected to excessive force, abrasion or motion during the time of healing.
The plastic surgeons at Hattiesburg Clinic are passionate about your goals and helping you achieve long-lasting results. We see many patients who are self-conscious about sagging skin, wrinkles and other facial features. Our procedures are designed to restore form and function as well as improve appearance and self-esteem.
Our plastic surgery team is experienced in both reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid surgery, and can also perform chin implant, facial resurfacing, rhinoplasty, facelift and neck lift surgeries. Contact us today to schedule an eyelid surgery or learn more about our services.