blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is a surgical eyelid procedure, which may correct drooping upper eyelids and puffy bags below the eyes. These conditions may make an individual look older than he or she truly is, and may give the false appearance of being weary or fatigued. Drooping upper eyelids may even result in diminished peripheral vision due to limitations in the upper and lateral fields.
The Best Candidates for Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty may enhance appearance, widen the field of peripheral vision, and in some cases, even resolve “eye strain” in those individuals using forehead muscles to help elevate their upper eyelids. This procedure won’t remove “crow’s feet,” lift sagging eyebrows, or remove dark circles under the eyes. Patients of Asian ancestry may choose to have an upper eyelid crease similar to Occidentals, or maintain their more natural eyelid appearance. Blepharoplasty may be combined with a facelift or browlift in patients who so choose.
The best candidates for blepharoplasty are patients who are realistic in their expectations. Individuals with certain medical conditions may have increased risk with blepharoplasty. These conditions include hypothyroidism, Grave’s disease, dry eye syndrome, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Be sure to discuss any medical problems with your ophthalmologist before proceeding with surgery. You should also inform your ophthalmologist if you have any known eye conditions such as glaucoma or a history of retinal detachment.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Most blepharoplasty procedures are completed under local anesthesia, with or without mild sedation. The procedure is typically performed in an out-patient facility or in the office. All four eyelids may be operated on or just the upper or lower ones. The procedure is typically painless, although you may have occasional mild discomfort during the procedure. If your surgeon elects for you to have general anesthesia, you will sleep through the procedure. The entire procedure may take from one to three hours, depending largely on whether all four lids are being operated on, or just the upper or lower ones.
