Also known as blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery is performed to open and rejuvenate the eyes. It entails the removal of excess skin and muscle along with the strategic repositioning of the eyelid. This procedure can correct puffy or droopy eyes. It is ideal for addressing the loss of elasticity that affects the upper and lower eyelids and causes the eyes to appear hooded, tired and small. The results can include eyes that are brighter and more alert as well as a more youthful appearance overall.
How Eyelid Surgery Can Take Years off Your Appearance
Given that eyelid skin is the thinnest skin on your face, it tends to show the very first signs of aging. Wrinkled folds on the upper eyelids and bags beneath the eye can age the face and obstruct the vision. These are natural changes that are accelerated by both sun damage and heredity. Eyelid surgery gives people the opportunity to reverse these changes so that the eyes look bright, clear and vibrant, much like they did in years past.
Candidacy for Blepharoplasty
The ideal candidates for blepharoplasty have good general health and realistic expectations for this process. It is important to note that blepharoplasty is not capable of eliminating crow’s feet around the eyes. However, it will improve under-eye bags. Certain medical conditions can increase the risks associated with blepharoplasty including eye conditions that result in insufficient tears for properly lubricating the eyes, hypertension, and diabetes.
Blepharoplasty is not designed to restore lost elasticity to the skin surrounding the eyes nor can it correct sun damage. These are issues that can be corrected with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift, brow lift or skin resurfacing.
The Surprising Social Benefits of Blepharoplasty
When the eyes are droopy, puffy or hooded, people can look tired and unfocused, even when they are well-rested and alert. Not only will eyelid surgery help you look younger and increase your self-confidence, but it can also have a significant impact on how others perceive you. This is especially important in the commercial arena where youth and vitality are highly valued.
How to Know If Eyelid Surgery Is Right for You
During your consultation, Doctor Anthony Stephens will review your current health and medical history while asking you questions about your tear production, blood pressure and other factors that can affect the safety and success of your surgery. We’ll review all of your options with you and determine the safest and most effective treatment for your needs.
What to Expect during Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery lasts approximately one to three hours depending upon the patient’s goals for cosmetic improvement and the nature of the work that must be performed. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia along with intravenous or oral sedatives. Although patients are awake throughout this process, they will only feel moderate tugging and pressure while the work is being performed. After surgery, patients often experience moderate discomfort along with bruising around the eyes that can for two to four weeks. Patients are advised to keep their heads elevated throughout the first two weeks of recovery and to use eye drops to lubricate the eyes as necessary. Contact J. Anthony Stephens, MD today to schedule your consultation.
