Posted by Dr. Hardesty

Blepharoplasty is a procedure commonly known as an “eyelid lift.” It is the surgical removal of excess skin and fat in the upper and lower eyelids, utilizing hidden incisions. Blepharoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic facial surgical procedures in the world.

Can Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery Make Me Look Younger or Less Tired Looking?

The first signs of facial aging can often be seen in the area around the eyes. As we age, the elasticity and collagen content of our skin decreases, the lax skin begins to bulge, muscles weaken, and the normal fat around the eye begins to bulge, causing our age to prematurely show. In both our upper and lower eyelids, the eyelid skin first begins to sag, followed by drooping bags. The upper eyelid skin droops and in more severe cases may partially block normal vision. Likewise, under our eyes, the eyelid skin can develop significant bags from the fatty herniation causing the skin to stretch and sag even more!

WATCH PROCEDURE

Video

How is Blepharoplasty Performed?

Using local, sedative/twilight surgery, or general anesthesia, delicate incisions are placed that result in almost invisible (sub conjunction approach) and hidden incisions (in the crease and directly under the eye lash). The bulging fat is gently removed and the loose skin excised. Sutures are removed at the 4-7th day depending on wound healing. Blepharoplasty can allow you to regain a rested, younger, and more rejuvenated appearance without any noticeable, telltale scars!

How Long Do the Results of Eyelid Surgery Last?

While this cosmetic surgery procedure won’t reverse the aging process, it does “restart the clock” and offers lasting results. Fortunately, the bags under the eyes typically don’t reappear. Avoiding sun exposure and smoking can also aid in maintaining the longevity of your surgery.

Before & After

Am I a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

There is no age limit to perform eyelid surgery. As long as you are healthy, not taking blood thinners, and can tolerate local anesthesia you can have a Blepharoplasty.

Are There Any Risks Involved with Blepharoplasty?

With any procedure there are risks. However, by choosing a skilled and experienced Plastic Surgeon in Riverside CA, your risks should be minimized. The risks involved include potential changes in eye shape, dry eyes, or difficulty closing your eyes. However, by seeking the services of an experienced Plastic Surgeon, the chances of these rare and unusual occurrences are greatly reduced

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery?

Mild pain, swelling, bruising, and other subtle side effects can be common after blepharoplasty. Any pain and vision blurriness should subside in a matter of days. However, mild puffiness and bruising can last somewhat longer. It is typical for a patient to return to work in 5-7 days and normal activity within only a couple of weeks.

Can I Combine Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures?

Yes! The most commonly performed combined procedures are a brow lift, laser skin resurfacing, facelift, or neck lift. However, it is not uncommon to combine a blepharoplasty with any other breast surgery or body contouring procedures.

Are There Any Non-Surgical Alternatives?

If you have only loose and minimal to moderate hanging skin, an alternative is lasers (CO2RE), radio frequency (ELOS), or in mild cases, chemical peels. Minor bulges of fat with a hollowness (tear trough deformity) can be disguised with hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm). However, if there are significant bulges and loose redundant skin, blepharoplasty is the procedure of choice.

What Won’t Blepharoplasty Help?

The fine wrinkles (rhytids), laugh lines and irregular crepe textures of the skin will only be minimally improved. Depending on the location and skin type neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport), lasers (CO2RE), radio frequency (ELOS) or in mild cases chemical peels can be used.

What Are the Cost/Fees?

The eyelid lift cost is based on the anesthesia used (local vs sedation or general anesthesia), the facility (minor surgical suite, outpatient operating room or hospital setting) and if upper, lower or both upper and lower eyelids are rejuvenated. All pre and post-operative care are included. Some preoperative laboratory analysis may be required (usually covered by your medical insurance).

Summary

Blepharoplasty is a very common facial cosmetic procedure with a high satisfaction rate. Blepharoplasty can allow you to regain a rested, younger, and more rejuvenated appearance without any noticeable telltale scars. We often hear “why didn’t I do this earlier!”

The most important factor to consider is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who are experts in facial rejuvenation techniques. The Imagine Plastic Surgery team uniquely provides the full array of both non-surgical and surgical eyelid rejuvenation alternatives thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options.” For more information, call and schedule a consultation.