Blepharoplasty

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure for the correction of drooping eyelids that are obstructing your vision. Blepharoplasty is also an aesthetic procedure carried out at cosmetic surgery clinics, and while the focus of the eye surgeons at Ophthalmology Physicians & Surgeons, PC is to improve your vision, blepharoplasty can have a rejuvenating effect that helps patients look less tired and more alert.

Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?

The first stage in assessing your suitability for blepharoplasty is a consultation with your eye doctor at Ophthalmology Physicians & Surgeons, PC. During your consultation, your provider can examine your eyes and eyelids to see if blepharoplasty is likely to help in your case.

Your provider also reviews your medical history and current lifestyle to make sure you’re a good candidate for eye surgery. Nonsmokers with no medical conditions that are likely to delay the healing process are the most suitable candidates for blepharoplasty.

How is blepharoplasty carried out?

Your blepharoplasty procedure takes place under a local anesthetic so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery.

Blepharoplasty involves removing fat deposits and excess skin from the eyelids. Some patients need surgery to the upper lids, while others need surgery on their lower lids.

Your eye surgeon tightens the skin that remains, stitching it together to form a natural, less drooping eyelid. Incisions are in the folds of your eyelids so that any scars left from the procedure are practically unnoticeable.

How long does it take to recover from blepharoplasty?

When the anesthetic wears off, you’re likely to feel some soreness in your eyelids — patients who undergo blepharoplasties liken the feeling to sunburn or windburn. The skin surrounding your eyelids may feel tight at first, and the area is going to be more sensitive. Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication should control any discomfort.

You may also experience swelling in the area, which is normal for the first few days. Use a cold compress to decrease the swelling, and elevate your head when you lay down to reduce inflammation. If your vision is a little blurry at first, that’s normal too.

Your provider gives you post-op information on how to look after yourself during your recovery from blepharoplasty, and how to optimize the healing process. You should avoid any strain, including intensive exercise, for as long as your provider recommends, and you should anticipate needing up to 10 days off of work.

If drooping eyelids are causing you difficulties, the exceptionally skilled eye surgeons at Ophthalmology Physicians & Surgeons, PC are ready to help. Schedule an appointment online or by phone today.