Eyelid surgery is designed to remove excess skin and fullness from the upper lid to reveal a more youthful appearance of the eyelid. Lower lid blepharoplasty removes the fullness or fat that causes "bags" and the dark circle shadow that makes one look tired.
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Female - Upper & Lower Lid Lift
Female - 42yrs - Upper & Lower Lid Lift
After appropriate sedation (see Anesthesia for details), the upper eyelid 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 small scar is hidden in the natural crease above the lid. Upper lid blepharoplasty can be performed at the same time as lower lids or any other procedure.
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. The incision is then sutured with an absorbable dissolving suture.
There are no bandages, tape or dressings in the recovery period and discomfort is minimal. Icing or applying a bag of frozen vegetables layered over a cool wet washcloth or gauze is effective and recommended as much as possible the first two days.
Maximum bruising and swelling will occur during the first three days. In most cases bruising will last two weeks, with some individuals, residual bruising may last up to 3 weeks Keeping the head elevated at night will help with swelling. It is common to heal differently on each side.
The incisions may ooze slightly for the first few hours following surgery. A drop of blood from the incision line every now and then is common.
As eyelids swell, it may appear as if the incision is pulling apart. This small separation of skin is not unusual, and you need not be alarmed. Your eyes may feel "tight" and burn slightly. Some blurring of vision and/or dryness of your eyes is not uncommon the first few days following surgery.
Dry eyes may be treated with artificial tears during the day and a lubricating ointment at night for one to three weeks. After sutures are removed at one week patients may wear makeup and resume some physical activity.
Incisions are slightly pink and the lids may be numb for weeks to months. Blepharoplasty after photos are taken at approximately three months post surgery.
Our staff of knowledgable professionals will answer your questions promptly. If you have further inquiries, please call us (503) 635-8930
