Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
When it comes to making a real impact on your appearance with very little recovery time, our cosmetic eye surgeon Dr. Thomas Joly understands that eyelid rejuvenation surgery, or blepharoplasty, can be an ideal solution to reverse the aging process in the eye area. Upper eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure that can correct tired and heavy looking upper eyelids, or even ptosis, by removing the excess skin causing the eyelids to droop. Lower eyelid surgery can reduce puffiness or dark circles under the eyes and refresh the eyes for an overall younger-looking appearance.
Upper & Lower Eyelid Surgery
Undergoing an upper or lower blepharoplasty or both can leave you with a vibrant, refreshed appearance that can make a dramatic difference in how you look and feel. This relatively short procedure, lasting approximately an hour or two, can change the tired and concerned look from your appearance and can “turn back time” for your face, leaving you with a restful, younger appearance. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed to correct drooping upper lids and lower eyelid blepharoplasty can eliminate the puffy bags below your eyes – the very features that make you look older and more fatigued than you are and feel! In many cases, drooping upper eyelids may even interfere with your vision.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
- Restores a more youthful appearance
- Removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids
- Reduces puffiness, tear trough hollowing, and dark circles under the eyes
- Provides a more rested look
- Is an outpatient procedure
- Requires minimal downtime
Good Candidates For Eyelid Lift
The ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals who are generally in good health and have realistic expectations. Typically eyelid surgery patients are over 35 years of age, but in some circumstances, patients with a family history of baggy or droopy eyelids may decide to undergo blepharoplasty at a younger age. Other candidates are those experiencing ptosis, a medical condition where excess sagging skin on the upper eyelids can either partially or completely obstruct vision. Eyelid surgery to correct ptosis may also be covered by medical insurance since it’s considered a medical issue and not cosmetic. The best way to determine candidacy for eyelid surgery is to schedule a consultation with our ophthalmic plastic surgeon who is uniquely qualified to evaluate not only the eyelids but also the overall health of your eyes and your vision.
The Blepharoplasty Consultation
It is important that before you elect to have any kind of cosmetic surgery that you think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon, as well as any eye-related medical conditions such as glaucoma or thyroid issues. Blepharoplasty can be done on its own or it may be combined with other facial plastic surgery procedures including brow lift or facelift or non-surgical procedures such as laser skin resurfacing or injectables like Botox or dermal fillers for more complete aesthetic rejuvenation. Of course the goal for the eyelid/eye lift rejuvenation surgery is to refresh your appearance, rather than fundamentally altering the appearance of your eye structure. Our surgeons may ask you to bring a personal photograph from 10-15 years ago, which he will carefully examine. You will also be encouraged to view before-and-after photographs of other patients who have elected to have a blepharoplasty procedure. This will occur in the privacy of our office. Our goal for your surgical procedure is to accomplish a subtle, rested look rather than a look that you obviously underwent surgery.
Eyelid Surgery Procedure
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, blepharoplasty surgery is among the most common cosmetic surgical facial treatments performed by facial plastic surgeons
Trusted Source
2020 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report
ASPS
Go to Source
today.
The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or under sedation with general anesthesia and involves removing or repositioning excess fat and excess eyelid skin from the upper and lower eyelids. Sutures are hidden in the natural eyelid creases, so scars are virtually invisible.
Recovery Following Eyelid Surgery
During the healing process for eyelid surgery, some swelling and bruising can be expected, however applying cold compresses or ice packs can reduce these symptoms and speed recovery. Most eyelid surgery patients are able to resume their normal activities within five days. Within a couple of weeks, expect friends and acquaintances to ask you if you have been on vacation or have gotten more rest? This is such a great feeling and a boost to your self image!
FAQs About Eyelid Surgery
How long does eyelid surgery take?
In general, eyelid surgery takes approximately one to two hours.
When can I start wearing makeup following eyelid surgery?
Patients can begin applying makeup one week after eyelid surgery.
Is eyelid surgery permanent?
Yes, the results of eyelid surgery are permanent. However, your skin is still subject to the normal effects of aging. Results can be extended by a healthy lifestyle, an optimal skin care regimen that includes sunscreen, and avoiding smoking.
Are there any risks associated with eyelid surgery?
While eyelid surgery is considered a safe and effective way to restore aging eyes, as with any surgery there are some risks. While rare, these risks include dry eyes, double vision, asymmetry, or difficulty closing the
Trusted Source
Blepharoplasty
Mayo Clinic
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eyes.
Schedule A Consultation For Eyelid Surgery
For more details on the procedure, contact us today by calling Virginia Eye Consultants at (757) 742-3902 or completing the form below to schedule your consultation. Our goal is to help you achieve the look you desire.
1 ASPS. 2020 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2020/plastic-surgery-statistics-full-report-2020.pdf. Accessed November 1, 2021.
2 Mayo Clinic. Blepharoplasty. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blepharoplasty/about/pac-20385174. Accessed November 1, 2021.
The doctors at Virginia Eye Consultants have either authored or reviewed the content on this site.