(Blepharoplasty): As people age, the eyelid skin stretches, muscles weaken and fat accumulates around the eyes. These features make you look older and more tired than you feel. Eyelid surgery is a procedure to remove fat along with excess skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. It can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags below the eyes. This procedure can be done alone, or in conjunction with a facelift or browlift.

Eyelid surgery (known as blepharoplasty) is a corrective procedure that can reduce dark circles or “bags” under the eyes, remove excess wrinkles, and provide a more youthful appearance to the eyes.  One of the first things noticed about a person is their eyes.  During the aging process, wrinkles, lines, and puffiness contribute to a tired or aged appearance.  The blepharoplasty surgery is often performed in conjunction with other facial procedures such as a face lift or rhinoplasty (nose surgery).

Reasons for Considering Eyelid Surgery:

• Dark circles or bags under the eyes.
• Excessive skin or wrinkles surrounding the eyelids.
• A tired appearance or puffiness due to inherited factors.

General Procedure

The surgical procedure includes tiny incisions made in the natural contours around the eyes which should leave no visible scarring.  The surgeon will usually work on the upper eyelids first to remove any fatty tissue and tighten loose skin.  Lower eyelids are completed next to eliminate puffiness and reduce dark circles.  In some instances, laser technology may be used to smooth lower eyelid areas.  Newer techniques may include Botox injections to firm fine lines and wrinkles.

The surgery generally takes about one to three hours and is performed in the physician’s office.  If additional cosmetic procedures are being performed, the eyelid surgery could last longer.

Recovery Process

Normally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time.  Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery which can be treated with oral medication.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize the risk for potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions given after the surgery.  The healing process for this procedure is slightly longer than most other forms of cosmetic surgery; however, the benefits are long-lasting.  Patients will have a more rested and youthful appearance.