Eyes (Blepharoplasty)

This procedure is designed to remove excess skin and fullness from the upper lid to reveal a more youthful appearance of the lid. The lower lid procedure removes the fullness or fat that causes "bags" and the dark circle shadow that makes one look tired.

Before and After Photos

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Procedure

Upper Lids

After appropriate sedation (see Anesthesia for details), the upper lid crease and the amount of skin to be removed is marked, the lid is then anesthetized with local anesthetic. Skin and some fat is removed and the incision is closed with a suture that is removed one week later. The resultant small scar is hidden in the natural crease above the lid. This can be performed at the same time as lower lids or any other procedure.

Lower Lids

After appropriate sedation (see Anesthesia for details) the lid is anesthetized with local anesthetic. An incision is made at the lash line to allow both fat removal and some skin excision. An incision is then sutured with an absorbable dissolving suture.

Recovery

There are no bandages, tape or dressings in the recovery period and there is very little discomfort. Patients sleep and rest for two days while applying wet, iced gauze intermittently and keeping their head slightly elevated. Bruising and swelling usually occurs and maximizes at two days after surgery. A lubricating ointment is placed in the eye at night for one to two weeks to keep the eye moistened. Sutures are out at one week and patients may then wear makeup and resume some physical activity. Bruising lasts one to two weeks in most cases. Incisions are slightly pink and the lids may be numb for weeks to months. Photos are taken at approximately three months.