Surgical Procedures

 

Eyelid lift (Blepharoplasty)

An eyelid lift (also known as blepharoplasty) can improve the visible signs of aging around the eyes. Most people interested in an eyelid lift have drooping upper lids and puffy bags below the eyes.

Eyelid lifts involve removing fat, muscle and/or skin from the upper and/or lower eyelids. During the surgery, incisions are made in the creases of your upper lids, and/or just below the lashes in the lower lids. The surgeon may extend the incision into the outer corners of your eyes. Skin is separated from fatty tissue and muscle, excess fat is removed, and often sagging skin and muscle is trimmed. The incisions are then closed with very fine sutures.

The surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis. You will feel discomfort, but any pain can be controlled with medication. You can expect your eyes and face to be swollen and bruised and this can last for a few weeks. Stitches may come out in 2-5 days.

You will be asked to rest for the first week. You may be asked to keep your head elevated for several days, and to use cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising. Your eyes will be 'sticky' for the first few days so you may be given eye drops and shown how to carefully clean them. You will probably be instructed not to participate in strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks.

In general, the goal of any eyelid lift should be to provide a natural, less tired, youthful appearance which is not artificial in any way.

For further information about this procedure, please click here: American Society of Plastic Surgeons.