The 411 On Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is an elective cosmetic surgery designed to improve the eye’s shape and appearance. This type of surgery is best to correct excess fat, drooping skin of upper eyelids, and puffiness under eyes. Eyelid surgery can also be used to correct ptosis, a medical condition caused by damage to nerve endings or poor muscle tone. An eyelid lift is often performed along with brow lift or face lift to improve facial sagging, wrinkles and droopy eyebrows.

Am I a good candidate for an eyelid lift? During the initial consultation with your doctor, he or she will discuss the requirements for eyelid surgery. Successful candidates should be at least 35 years old and physically and emotionally healthy. Certain conditions such as dry eyes, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, glaucoma or Graves’ disease may make you ineligible for this type of surgery.

What’s involved in eyelid surgery? Under general anesthesia, incisions are made along the crease of the upper eyelid. Fatty tissue, excess skin, and underlying muscle may be removed. The surgeon may also make an incision under the lower lashes along the outer lower rim of the eye. This will allow the doctor to divide fatty tissue from skin and muscle without leaving a visible scar. Often, external skin resurfacing with a chemical peel or carbon dioxide laser is performed simultaneously to improve outcome and recovery.

What are the risks of eyelid surgery? As with all surgeries, cosmetic processes have the risk of bleeding, infection, adhesions, abscess formation, inappropriate healing, and unsightly scarring. Risks specific to eyelid surgery include teary, itchy eyes, double vision, light sensitivity or dry eyes. The anatomy of the eyelids and facial structure, skin elasticity, age, and adjacent tissue all affect aesthetic and functional outcomes of surgery.

How do I find a qualified eyelid surgeon? It is important to take your time to find a surgeon that you trust. Ensure the surgeon you talk to you in your area is open to your questions, concerns and expectations. He or she should be certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery and have at least 5 years of experience in this field.

What are alternatives to an eyelid lift? Non-surgical alternatives used to improve the shape of eyes and facial aging include lasers, chemical peels, Botox injections, and dermal fillers. Topical application of acids or the use of lasers are used to tighten and decrease skin volume. These alternatives typically do not last as long as eyelid surgery, which is permanent.