Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid Surgery, also known as Blepharoplasty, is a procedure to remove fat.
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Usually along with excess skin and muscle – from the upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags below your eyes – features that make you look older and more tired than you feel, and may even interfere with your vision. However, it won’t remove crow’s feet or other wrinkles, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows.

Blepharoplasty can be done alone, or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift or browlift.

Meet Your Physicians

Duane O. Hartshorn, MD

Matthew R. Swelstad, MD

Jeffrey M. Pitcher, MD

Eyelid Surgery FAQ's

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, enhances the appearance of the eyelids, addressing both upper and lower lids. Whether for aesthetic reasons or functional concerns, this procedure revitalizes the eye area.

What it can treat: 

  • Skin that is lax or sagging, leading to folds or disrupting the natural upper eyelid contour, potentially affecting vision.
  • Accumulation of fatty deposits causing puffiness in the eyelids.
  • Presence of under-eye bags.
  • Drooping lower eyelids, revealing white below the iris.
  • Excessive skin and fine wrinkles on the lower eyelid.

Is it right for me? 

Eyelid Surgery is a highly individualized procedure, and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. 

Face Implants may be a good option for:

  • Are physically healthy
  • Nonsmoker
  • Have a positive outlook and realistic goals
  • Individuals without serious eye conditions

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you and any concerns you may have.

Questions to Consider:

  • What is the simplest and safest surgery to help me achieve my goals?
  • Are other options available?
  • What results can I expect, and how long do the typical results last?
  • Where will scars be located, and how noticeable will they be?
  • Will scars fade over time, and how long will this take?

Your surgeon will:

  • Assess your overall health and any pre-existing conditions or risk factors.
  • Capture photographs for reference.
  • Engage in discussions about available options and potential outcomes of the forehead/brow lift surgery, including risks and complications.

 

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

Comprehensive comprehension of every facet of your arm lift procedure is crucial. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions, from excitement about the anticipated transformation to a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t hesitate to openly discuss these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

There are several things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your Pre-Op Checklist:

  • Make sure you have arranged for someone to drive you to surgery and stay with you for a night. 
  • Consult with your surgeon and adhere to their instructions.
  • Take prescribed medications or modify current medication as directed.
  • Complete necessary lab tests within 30 days of your procedure.
  • Cease smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
  • Refrain from taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements to mitigate potential bleeding.

 Day of Surgery:

  • Be on time for your scheduled surgery appointment.
  • Bring a companion aged 18 or older.
  • Refrain from eating or drinking after midnight prior to your surgery.
  • Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove on the day of your surgery.

Above all, adhering to your surgeon’s pre-surgery recommendations is key to a successful and swift recovery.

Anesthesia:

Medications for comfort during arm lift surgery are administered, with options including intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, tailored to your specific needs by your doctor.

The Incision: 

Eyelid surgery incisions are strategically placed for discreet scarring within the natural structures of the eyelid region. There are two different incision options depending on the results you want. 

  • Upper Eyelid: This incision is made within a natural crease and allows for removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles, and removal of excess skin.
  • Lower Eyelid: This incision is made just below the lower lash line and allows for removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles, and removal of excess skin. 

Closing the Incision: 

Eyelid incisions are usually sealed with sutures or skin glue, with sutures removed within a week. Additionally, your surgeon may recommend laser treatment or a chemical peel to diminish discoloration of the lower eyelids.

Recovery durations after Eyelid Surgery vary for each patient (days to months).

Following your eyelid surgery, lubricating ointment and cold compresses may be administered. In some instances, gauze may be loosely placed over your eyes after the procedure.

You will receive detailed instructions covering:

  • Proper care post-surgery
  • Medications for healing and infection prevention
  • Specific signs to monitor at the surgical site and for overall health
  • Follow-up schedule with your plastic surgeon

Ensure you address specific queries about your individual recovery:

  • Post-surgery destination.
  • Prescribed medications.
  • Duration of dressings/bandages and removal timeline.
  • Are the stitches scheduled for removal, and if so, when is the expected timeframe? 
  • When can I safely resume normal activities and exercise? 
  • What is the recommended timing for my follow-up care appointment?

Your plastic surgeon and/or their team will provide detailed explanations of surgery-associated risks. Consent forms will be signed to ensure your full comprehension of the procedure and potential complications.

Some Risks Involved:

  • Anesthesia risks
  • Bleeding from the incision lines
  • Changes in skin sensation or numbness of the eyelashes
  • Difficulty closing your eyes
  • Dryness to the eyes

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