Eyelid Surgery
Inviting eyes are essential to a youthful appearance. The eyes are what create uniqueness and depth, and we typically want others to focus on this area.
Unfortunately, the eyes are also one of the first parts of the face to show aging. In certain families, aging eyelids are hereditary, with hooded lids or prominent under-eye bags emerging as early as the late teens to early 20s. Some individuals may experience obstructed vision from excess upper eyelid skin, making blepharoplasty a medically necessary procedure. In such cases, insurance may cover eyelid surgery.
The Procedure
Dr. Shafaie restores a firmer, smoother appearance to the upper eyelids through upper blepharoplasty. The incision is placed within the upper lid crease, and extends slightly beyond the corner of the eye to remove the loose skin often present in this location. Underlying fat is removed to eliminate fullness.
Lower blepharoplasty removes bags that cast shadows beneath the eyes. Excess skin is also eliminated to create a smoother look. The incision to remove excess lower lid fat can be made on the inside of the eyelid. An incision just below the eyelashes is used to remove the extra skin.
In most cases, eyelid surgery takes 1 to 3 hours, and is performed under general anesthesia. In some instances, however, this procedure can be performed with local anesthesia.
Can Eyelid Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?
To correct concerns that eyelid surgery alone cannot address, blepharoplasty may be combined with complementary procedures including:
Brow lift surgery to elevate sagging eyebrows
Facelift surgery to improve overall facial appearance
Liposuction to enhance the contours of the lower face and neck
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Eyelid Surgery?
After eyelid surgery, our patients typically report that they can return to their normal activities within a few days of their procedure. Any slight bruising or swelling typically vanishes in 10 to 14 days. Most patients can resume exercising 3 to 4 weeks after their blepharoplasty procedure.
Written by: Brenton Koch