Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, can rejuvenate puffy, sagging or tired-looking eyes by removing excess fat and skin from the upper and/or lower eyelids. The procedure can also tighten eyelid muscles and tissue. A blepharoplasty is performed to improve a patient's peripheral vision by lifting droopy eyelids, or strictly for cosmetic reasons.
What can a blepharoplasty do?
A blepharoplasty is ideal for correction of the following:
- Loose, sagging and/or folded upper eyelids that may interfere with vision
- Puffy fat deposits in the eyelids
- Undereye bags
- Sagging lower eyelids that may show the whites of the eyes below the irises
- Excess skin in the lower eyelids
- Fine wrinkles in the lower eyelids
A blepharoplasty cannot raise the eyebrows, or treat deep wrinkles, dark circles under the eyes, or crow's feet.
Who is a good candidate for a blepharoplasty?
The best candidate for a blepharoplasty is in good overall health, does not smoke, does not have serious eye conditions, and has healthy facial tissue and muscle.
A person with eye disease, diabetes, thyroid disorder, cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure may not be a good candidate for a blepharoplasty.
It is important for a patient to have realistic expectations before undergoing a blepharoplasty. Although it can enhance appearance and improve self-confidence, it does not radically alter the look of the face.
How is a blepharoplasty performed?
The best candidate for a blepharoplasty is in good overall health, does not smoke, does not have serious eye conditions, and has healthy facial tissue and muscle.
A person with eye disease, diabetes, thyroid disorder, cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure may not be a good candidate for a blepharoplasty.
It is important for a patient to have realistic expectations before undergoing a blepharoplasty. Although it can enhance appearance and improve self-confidence, it does not radically alter the look of the face.
What is recovery from a blepharoplasty like?
After blepharoplasty, patients may be advised to apply lubricating drops/ointment and cold compresses to aid in healing and minimize side effects. Most patients return to work within a few days to a week, but should avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks. Stitches are usually removed 3 or 4 days after the procedure. Most of the swelling and other side effects typically subside within 2 weeks. Contact lenses and eye makeup may not be worn for 2 weeks after surgery. Patients are typically advised to wear dark sunglasses outside or in bright light for 2 weeks to protect their eyes from sun and wind.
What are the results of a blepharoplasty?
Although there may be swelling and bruising around the surgical site, they will subside on their own, and the eyelids will improve in appearance for up to a year. The scars from a blepharoplasty are well-concealed, and usually fade with time until they are virtually undetectable. Although the eyelids are still subject to aging, blepharoplasty produces long-lasting results.