[vc_single_image image=”29070″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Eyelid Surgery”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502253095887{padding-right: 20px !important;}”]Also known as eye lift or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids.
Surgery can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids or both.
Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.[vc_custom_heading text=”When to Consider Eyelid Surgery” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502253101704{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- If you have excess, hanging skin covering the natural fold of the upper eyelids
- If you have loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids over the eyelashes
- If your upper and lower eyelids appear puffy, making your eyes look tired and aged
- If you have deep grooves under your eyes
[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Considerations”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502253132429{padding-right: 20px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Pros” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- You will eliminate the puffiness and bags under your lower lids and the hooded skin on your upper lids, making you appear younger and healthier.
- You may no longer have vision problems related to overhanging eyelids.
- Any scars from the eye lift will be hidden in your natural eyelid creases, making them almost indiscernible.
[vc_custom_heading text=”Cons” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- It will take time to see results after surgery.
- You’ll likely be bruised and swollen and your eyes may be itchy and dry following the procedure.
- If your eyebrows droop and you have creases in your forehead, you may also need a brow lift.
These are the top three pros and cons to weigh when considering eyelid surgery. If you want to focus on what is unique to you, please consult with your aesthetic plastic surgeon.[vc_custom_heading text=”Are you a good candidate for eyelid surgery?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]The following are some common reasons why you may want to consider eyelid surgery:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- You have excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids
- You have loose upper eyelid skin that impairs your vision
- You have a puffy appearance to the upper eyelids, making your eyes look tired and sad
- You have excess skin and fine, ‘crepe paper’ type lower eyelid wrinkles
- You have bags and dark circles under the eyes
- Your upper eye surface is too small or not smooth enough to apply makeup
If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Eyelid surgery procedure steps”]An eyelid surgery procedure includes the following steps:[vc_custom_heading text=”Step 1 – Anesthesia” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.[vc_custom_heading text=”Step 2 – The incision” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]The incision lines for eyelid surgery are designed so the resultant scars will be well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region.
The upper eyelid can be corrected through an incision within the natural crease on the eyelid. This allows for removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles and removal of excess skin.[vc_single_image image=”31885″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”]Conditions of the lower eyelid may be corrected with an incision just below the lower lash line. Through this incision, excess skin in the lower eyelid is removed. Again, the excess fat can be repositioned or removed.
A transconjunctival incision, created on the inside of the lower eyelid, is an alternate technique to correct lower eyelid conditions and redistribute or remove excess fat. With this technique, no skin is removed.[vc_single_image image=”31886″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_custom_heading text=”Step 3 – Closing the incisions” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Eyelid incisions typically are closed with sutures or skin glue. Sutures are removed within one week.
Your surgeon may also suggest use of a laser or chemical peel to reduce discoloration of the lower eyelids.[vc_custom_heading text=”Step 4 – See the results” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]The results of eyelid surgery will appear gradually as swelling and bruising subside to reveal a smooth, better-defined eyelid and surrounding region, and a more alert and rejuvenated appearance.[vc_custom_heading text=”What are my options?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]A surgeon who is board-certified in an appropriate specialty will choose the right procedure for you based on your physical characteristics and aesthetic concerns.[vc_custom_heading text=”Upper eyelids ” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Your surgeon will place the incision line at the natural eyelid crease through which he or she will remove excess skin, muscle, and fat. Lasers may be used to remove this excess tissue to reduce swelling and bruising.[vc_custom_heading text=”Lower eyelids” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]There are a number of options for performing lower eyelid surgery:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- The traditional approach places the incision just below the eyelashes, trimming and/or repositioning excess skin and fat, and tightening the lower eyelid muscle.
- In the transconjunctival approach, effective in improving lower eyelid bags and puffiness, your surgeon places the incision inside the eyelid. Your surgeon can remove excess fat through a transconjunctival incision, but not excess skin.
- The ‘skin pinch’ blepharoplasty removes only a bit of skin. This is effective if you have strong lower eyelid support and only a little extra skin. In some patients laser resurfacing can both tighten excess skin and remove wrinkles.
- The use of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers is a nonsurgical alternative for the lower eyelids. Restylane, Juvéderm, and other soft tissue fillers can be injected into the tear trough (crescent-shaped under-eye area) to rejuvenate the appearance of the under-eye area. Results are varied and last approximately six months.
[vc_custom_heading text=”What will my eyelid surgery incisions and scars be like?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Upper eyelid surgery: Your surgeon will mark the natural lines and creases of your lids and keep your scars as hidden as possible along these natural folds. Fine sutures will be used to close the incisions, thereby minimizing scar visibility.
Lower eyelid surgery: In traditional blepharoplasty, your surgeon will make the incision in an inconspicuous site along the lash line and smile creases of the lower lid. In a transconjunctival approach, your surgeon corrects eyelid puffiness caused by excess fat by making an incision inside the lower eyelid. This technique requires no external incision, but it cannot be used to remove excess skin.[vc_single_image image=”31887″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”]A – Eyelid surgery corrects wrinkled skin on the upper lids and puffy bags under the eye.
B – Incisions follow the natural contour lines of your upper and lower eyelids.
C – Incisions are stitched closed and will fade and blend into the natural creases.
D – After surgery, your appearance is brighter, more alert and rested.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Selecting a Surgeon”][vc_custom_heading text=”Select a surgeon you can trust” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]It’s important to choose your surgeon based on:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Education, training, and certification
- Experience with eyelid surgery
- Your comfort with him or her
Members of the Iranian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery are experienced and qualified to perform your aesthetic procedure.
After finding a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who is experienced in performing eyelid surgery, you will need to make an office appointment to set up your consultation. Generally, because of the in-depth nature of the consultation, there is a cost associated with the initial visit.[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502253101704{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Your initial consultation appointment” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your cosmetic goals. Your surgeon will evaluate you as a candidate for eyelid surgery and clarify what blepharoplasty can do for you. Once the surgeon understands your goals, he or she may suggest additional or related procedures.
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your complete medical history. This will include information about:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Previous surgeries
- Past and present medical conditions
- Allergies and current medications
It is important to be completely honest during the consultation. Also, bring photos of yourself at an earlier age; they may serve as a good point of reference for discussing your goals. It’s a good idea to be fully prepared to answer these questions:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- What is your history with any noninvasive cosmetic procedures?
- What outcome do you expect from the surgery? What is your chief motivation in undergoing eyelid surgery?
Your surgeon may also:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Ask you to look in a mirror and point out exactly what you would like to see improved
- Take photos for your medical record, measure your face, and use computer imaging to show you the improvements you can expect
- Evaluate your health status, including pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
- Evaluate the elasticity of your skin
- Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
[vc_custom_heading text=”Your treatment plan” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Based on your goals, physical characteristics, and the surgeon’s years of training and experience, your surgeon will share recommendations and information with you, including:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- An approach to your surgery, including the type of procedure or combination of procedures
- The outcomes that you can anticipate
- Your financial investment in the procedure
- Associated risks and complications
- Options for anesthesia and surgery location
- What is needed to prepare for the surgery
- What you can expect to experience after surgery
- The doctor will also share before-and-after photos of cases similar to yours and answer any questions
[vc_custom_heading text=”Questions to ask your aesthetic plastic surgeon” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]For a general list of questions to ask your surgeon about his or her background, to find out about plastic surgery safety, and to plan your procedure.
We developed these questions to help you:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Make the most informed and intelligent decision about your procedure
- Confirm that you have the right surgeon for your procedure
- Make your initial consultation as rewarding as possible
- Understand your options, potential outcomes, and risks
It is important for you to take an active role in your surgery, so please use this list of questions as a starting point for your initial consultation.[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
- Are the results I am seeking reasonable and realistic?
- Do you have before-and-after photos I can look at for this procedure?
- Will my scars be visible?
- What kind of anesthesia do you recommend for me?
- What will be the costs associated with my eyelid surgery?
- What will you expect of me to get the best results?
- What kind of recovery period can I expect, and when can I resume normal activities?
- What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure?
- How are complications handled?
- What are my options if the cosmetic outcome of my eyelid surgery does not meet the goals we agreed on?
[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Preparing for Your Procedure”][vc_custom_heading text=”How do I prepare for a eyelid surgery procedure?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Your surgeon will provide you with preoperative instructions, answer any questions that you may have, take a detailed medical history, and perform a physical exam to determine your fitness for surgery.[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- You can expect to be asked detailed questions related to dry eyes, glaucoma, eye-related allergies, and other eye problems. Tell the doctor if you have circulatory problems, thyroid problems, diabetes, or other serious medical conditions. You will be asked about your current medications, including over-the-counter medications. Make sure to tell your doctor about any herbal supplements you take, as some of them may cause bleeding problems.
- Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination, which may include testing your tear production. Special tools may be used to measure parts of your eyelids.
- Expect to have your eyes photographed from different angles. These photos help with planning the surgery and assessing its immediate and long-term effects.
- Your surgeon will discuss your expectations with you. An honest discussion will help determine a satisfactory outcome. Be prepared to talk about your motivation for seeking blepharoplasty and what you hope the results will be. Your surgeon can tell you whether your expectations are in line with typical results.
In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Stop smoking at least six weeks before undergoing to promote better healing.
- Avoid taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs: Advil, Motrin, Aleve), and vitamins/homeopathic regimens that can increase bleeding.
- Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important. Appropriate hydration before and after surgery is critical for safe recovery and optimal outcomes.
Eyelid surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with you at least for the first night following surgery.
What can I expect on the day of eyelid surgery?
Your eyelid surgery may be performed in an accredited hospital, free-standing ambulatory facility, or office-based surgical suite. Most eyelid procedures take at least one to two hours to complete.[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure.
- Local anesthesia combined with sedation is commonly used during eyelid surgery, though general anesthesia can be used instead.
- For your safety during the surgery, various monitors will be used to check your heart, blood pressure, pulse, and the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood.
- Your surgeon will follow the surgical plan discussed with you before surgery.
- After your surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored.
- After blepharoplasty, a lubricating ointment will be applied to your eyes to protect them and prevent dryness. The ointment may cause temporary blurred vision.
You may leave later that day to recuperate at home. You will need someone to drive you home, and it is a good idea to have someone stay with you the first night.[vc_custom_heading text=”Aftercare and Recovery” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Your surgeon will discuss how long it will be before you can return to your normal level of activity and work. After surgery, you and your caregiver will receive detailed instructions about your postsurgical care, including information about:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Normal symptoms you will experience
- Potential signs of complication
For the easiest recovery period, have the following items readily accessible at home:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Ice cubes, ice pack, or freezer bags filled with ice, frozen corn, or peas (based on your surgeon’s recommendation for cold application to the eyelids)
- Small gauze pads
- Eye drops or artificial tears (ask your doctor to recommend the proper type to meet your particular needs)
- Clean washcloths and towels
- Over-the-counter painkillers, which your doctor can recommend, but avoid Advil, Motrin, Naproxen, Aleve, and aspirin due to the increased risk of bleeding
- Plan to stay home from work and limit your activities for a prescribed time after surgery to give your eyelids a chance to heal.
Immediately after eyelid surgery[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- You may experience excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and double vision just after the surgery.
- Your incisions will be red and visible at first, and your eyelids may be puffy and feel numb for several days.
- Swelling and bruising, similar to having “black eyes,” will likely last a week or more.
- Your surgeon will probably instruct you to apply ice packs or cold compresses to your eyes to help reduce swelling.
- Pain is usually minimal. You may be given a pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol or others) for mild discomfort, but remember to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or others), naproxen (Aleve), and any other medications or herbal supplements that may increase bleeding.
- If stitches were used, they’ll be removed after three or four days.
If you experience extreme or long-lasting pain or redness and swelling after the surgery, contact your surgeon to find out if these symptoms are normal or a sign of a problem.
Recovery time frame after eyelid surgery
It is vitally important that you follow all postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon. This will include information about bandages, drains, taking an antibiotic if prescribed, and the level and type of activity that is safe. Your surgeon will also provide detailed instructions about the normal symptoms you will experience and any potential signs of complications. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.
The first two weeks
Although you will not have to rest in bed following surgery, you should plan to relax, stay home, and use cold compresses on your eyes on the day of surgery as well as the day after. The amount of time it takes for recovery varies. Here are some helpful guidelines:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions for care. For the first couple of days following surgery, expect to treat the incisions with ointment to keep them lubricated and place cold compresses on the eyes to reduce swelling. You will be advised to use eye drops to keep the eyes from drying. If you have dry eyes lasting more than two weeks, contact your doctor.
- Sleep with your head raised higher than your chest. You can use regular pillows, wedge pillows, or sleep on a recliner. Minimize swelling and bruising by keeping your head elevated as much as possible during the first few days of recovery.
- After upper and lower blepharoplasty surgery your eyelids will typically feel tight. You can treat soreness with acetaminophen. Significant bruising typically occurs, but will resolve within two weeks.
- Avoid straining, heavy lifting, swimming, and strenuous activities, such as aerobics and jogging, for ten to fourteen days. Specifically, you should avoid activities in which you must move your head abruptly or that increase the blood pressure in your head. This restriction includes, but is not limited to, bending over, which causes your head to be lower than your heart, and lifting objects heavy enough to cause you to strain. This restriction may apply for three to four weeks.
- You may notice that your eyes tire easily for the first several weeks of the recovery period. Take frequent naps. Avoid activities that may dry the eyes, including reading, watching television, wearing contacts, and using a computer.
- For the first two weeks after your surgery, wear dark sunglasses to protect the eyes from irritation caused by sun and wind.
- Your plastic surgeon will remove the stitches between two and seven days after your eyelid surgery.
- You may feel well enough to resume normal activities around the tenth day of recovery.
- Seek medical attention immediately if you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, an unusual heart rate, new pain, bleeding, or visual disturbance.
[vc_custom_heading text=”How Long Will the Results Last?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]How Long Will the Results Last?
Your eyelid surgery results should be long-lasting. For the most part, removal of hooding and upper eyelid skin is a procedure that is performed only once. As aging continues, your brow can drop or descend, causing excess skin to reappear on the upper eyelid, but in this case the solution is a brow lift, not a second upper blepharoplasty. Lower blepharoplasty is usually performed to remove eye bags and puffiness around the eyes, and it too should only need to be performed once.
Maintain a relationship with your aesthetic plastic surgeon
For safety as well as the most beautiful and healthy outcome, it’s important to return to your plastic surgeon’s office for follow-up evaluation at prescribed times and whenever you have any questions about your eyelid surgery healing and results. Do not hesitate to contact your surgeon when you have any questions or concerns.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Eyelid surgery cost “]Blepharoplasty costs can vary widely. The average fee referenced above does not include anesthesia, operating room facilities or other related expenses.
A surgeon’s cost for eyelid surgery may vary based on his or her experience, the type of procedure used, as well as geographic office location.
Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans to help cover blepharoplasty costs, so be sure to ask.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Eyelid surgery costs may include:”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Surgeon’s fee
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Anesthesia fees
- Prescriptions for medication
- Medical tests
When choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area for eyelid surgery, remember that the surgeon’s experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery.[vc_custom_heading text=”Limitations and Risks” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Fortunately, significant complications from eyelid surgery are infrequent. Every year, thousands of people undergo successful eyelid surgery and are pleased with the results. Blepharoplasty, which remains the gold standard for eyelid rejuvenation, is usually performed without any major problems.
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Some of the potential complications of all surgeries are:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
- Infection and bleeding
- Changes in sensation
- Scarring
- Allergic reactions
- Damage to underlying structures
- Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures.
You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your board-certified plastic surgeon, both before and after your eyelid surgery.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Eyelid surgery words to know “]Blepharoplasty
Eyelid surgery to improve the appearance of eyelids.
Ectropion
When the lower eyelid is rolled outward; often a temporary condition after lower lid blepharoplasty.
General anesthesia
Drugs and/or gases used during an operation to relieve pain and alter consciousness.
Hematoma
A collection of blood under the skin whose pressure may impair vision.
Intravenous sedation
Sedatives administered via an intravenous line to help you relax.
Local anesthesia
A drug injected directly to the site of an incision during an operation to relieve pain.
Skin resurfacing
Treatment to improve the texture, clarity and overall appearance of your skin.
Sutures
Stitches used by surgeons to hold skin and tissue together.
Transconjunctival incision
Incision hidden inside the lower eyelid within the reddish conjunctival tissue.
