Blepharoplasty- Surgical Eyelid Lift
Your eyes are usually the first thing that people notice about your appearance. They are probably the most important aspect of facial attractiveness. Even with a good night's sleep, loose and puffy skin over your eyes can make you look tired, sad, or even older than you are.
Today, with numerous advances, an eyelid rejuvenation procedure is called Blepharoplasty. It can help restore a more youthful, alert and healthy look to your eyes.
Most patients experience a marked improvement in the appearence of their eyes after Blepharoplasty. In addition to improving some vision, many patients report feeling more alert and energetic.
The First Step to Blepharoplasty
As a general rule, insurance does not cover Blepharoplasty as a cosmetic surgery. However, if you eyelids are encroaching upon your field of vision, the procedure may be covered as "medically necessary" surgery.
Before surgery, your surgeon will evaluate the condition and health of your eyes. Specifics regarding your vision, tear production, use of contact lenses, use of medications, and personal expectations will be discussed. The information, along with other factors such as your age, skin type, and ethnic background, will allow both you and your surgeon to come to a metal decision regarding the surgical technique, amount of surgery and type of anesthesia to be used.
1. During Blepharoplasty
Your procedure will take place at Newport Bay Surgery Center, the only outpatient surgery center in Orange County that is focused on eye surgery. It is conveniently located on Newport Harbor, next to Pacific Highway and HOAG Hospital.
On the day of your surgery, plan to have a driver who will assist you getting to the center and home. Blepharoplasty is generally performed using local anesthetic. You may be given a mild sedative to help you relax. Depending on the amount of tissue to be removed, totally surgery time is typically just over an hour.
Your doctor will remove excess skin, muscle, and fatty tissue on the upper eyelids that tend to accumulate in the inside corner of the eye. The incisions are made along the natural fold the skin so that as they heal they become difficult, if not impossible, to see with the passage of time.
2. After Blepharoplasty
Bruising and swelling are common and usually noticeable for a week to a month after the surgery, although longer in some cases. Cold compress and head elevation will help reduce swelling and bruising and minimize discomfort. Eye ointments and/or eye drops may be given to keep the eye moist and clean.
Most patients require little, if any, pain medication. You eyes may feel sticky, dry, and itchy for a week or so after the procedure. You will need to take special care in cleaning around the eyes for the first week or two.
Stitches are usually removed within seven to ten business days after surgery. Make-up can usually be applied to camouflage bruising after the stitches are removed. A good pair of sunglasses may help you feel better when in public. It is important to follow all of your instructions to accelerate healing and reduce the risks of complications.
3. What to Expect
Although the positive effects of having blepharoplasty on your appearance will be immediate, your results will not be considered final for up to a year as the healing process continues. Expect your results to last for a decade as time passes and you continue to age.