Eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure that is usually done in conjunction with other procedures. Both upper and lower eyelids can be surgically repaired. Despite its name, the eyelid is not lifted during the surgery. Instead, skin or fat can be removed or added depending on the patient’s condition.
Known as eye lift or blepharoplasty, the surgery is usually done in patients that are over 35 and are in good health. The skin of the eyelid can sag as aging occurs causing the upper eyelid to droop and potentially impair vision or the lower eyelid can bulge. Lower eyelid surgery generally does not need to be repeated and does not necessarily lighten under eye circles; however upper eyelid surgery usually lasts from five to seven years. If the upper eyelid sags again, a subsequent forehead lift surgery may be the optimal choice.
While it is a cosmetic procedure, blepharoplasty on the upper lid can improve vision if the upper lid is drooping and impairing vision. It is also important to note that while the eyelid skin can sag as a result of the aging process, there are also patients genetically predisposed to sagging eyelids so they may seek surgical remedies at a younger age.
Eyelid lift surgery is typically an outpatient procedure that can be done at a surgical center with local anesthesia, or if done in a hospital, intravenous anesthesia may be administered. If both upper and lower lids are done at the same time, the procedure can take as long as two hours.
The patient will go home with stitches that will remain for about a week. Ice (to minimize swelling) and rest are recommended for a few days after the procedure. Makeup should be avoided for approximately two weeks after the surgery to minimize the risk of scarring or infection.
Blepharoplasty was ranked the fourth most common plastic surgery procedure in the United States in 2016. It is a routine procedure that generally has minimal side effects and complications.
If you are interested in this procedure, contact our team at Ciao Bella for a consultation.
