Plastic Surgery
What is
Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces bagginess from lower eyelids and improves hooding of the upper eyelids. Upper blepharoplasty is a distinct surgery from upper eyelid ptosis repair, which raises drooping upper eyelids. Blepharoplasty often calls for the removal of excess skin, muscle, and underlying fatty tissue, but sometimes tissues can be repositioned rather than removed. While it is primarily a cosmetic procedure, blepharoplasty is also an effective method for improving sight in patients whose sagging upper eyelids obstruct their vision as determined by an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon.
Details of Blepharoplasty
What results can I expect?
Blepharoplasty takes 1-2 hours if both upper and lower eyelids are done at the same time, depending on whether fat is repositioned or if there is additional work to lift cheeks. There will be a stitch in both upper lids that will remain for about a week. The lower lids do not require sutures if the incision is made on the inside of the lid. It is common for swelling and bruising to occur in the upper and lower lids. Within one to two weeks the upper eyelids will look good. Upper lids show the incision line and take a bit longer than lower lids to look great. Expect to stay home from work and limit your activities for several days after surgery to allow your eyelids to heal. Some patients experience dry eyes after surgery, but the condition rarely lasts more than two weeks. If you have dry eyes for more than two weeks, contact your doctor.
