Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is the collective name for a number of different types of eyelid surgery that can be done under local, twilight or general anaesthesia.
Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty
It is the surgical excision of excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid to help improve hooding of droopiness of the upper eyelid. The incision is made along the eyes natural eyelid crease to create a virtually invisible scar once fully healed.
Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty
It includes both transconjunctival and transcutaneous lower eyelid blepharoplasty. In transconjunctival blepharoplasty, the removal and/or redistribution of herniated lower eyelid fat is done through an incision on the INSIDE of the eyelid, making the scar invisible after surgery. Transcutaneous lower eyelid blepharoplasty is the excision of lower eyelid skin with or without the removal or redistribution of fat. The incision in this procedure is made just below the lash line to help minimise its appearance.
Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty, is the gold standard to correct eyelid hooding, sagging, bulging, and tired looking eyes. The best time to undergo this surgery is in the fall and winter months but it can be done all year round. Often, I am asked at what age should I get blepharoplasty. My answer is always the same- if you notice and are bothered by the issue at hand more days than not, it is a good time to have surgery. For instance, if you look in the mirror everyday and think my eyes make me look tired or sad, that is the time to seek evaluation from an oculoplastic surgeon. If for instance, you see the issue 1-2 times per week, you could hold off until it bothers you more. In my opinion, if you have an issue that can be resolved with minimal risk, there is no reason not to address it.
All surgery has risk but generally blepharoplasty is a rewarding surgical procedure to help rejuvenate the area around the eye. After surgery there will be swelling, potential for bruising and stitches that are generally removed 1 week after surgery. There can be some temporary light sensitivity, blurring of vision from topical antibiotic ointment used which resolves quickly the procedure. Intense sun exposure should be avoided for one month following treatment.
Social downtime varies from 1-2 weeks and generally at 4-6 weeks, most of the healing has occurred. Results continue to improve over 3-6 months.
Aesthetic outcomes can be enhanced with combination treatments including CO2 laser, Morpheu8, or chemical peels