Blepharoplasty FAQS
What are the benefits of blepharoplasty?
"Blepharoplasty," or eyelid surgery, can help to alleviate vision problems caused by sagging, excess skin. Additionally, this procedure can rejuvenate a patient's face, providing them with a more youthful appearance.
Who is an eligible candidate for eyelid surgery?
Ideal eyelid surgery patients are those who have excess skin around their eyes, or have a single eyelid appearance and are seeking what is known as a "double eyelid." Also, patients must be 18 years of age, physically and physiologically healthy, with no ophthalmic conditions, and realistic in their surgical expectations.
Will blepharoplasty correct my crow's feet or sagging eyebrows?
No. Blepharoplasty targets sagging eyebrows solely. If you are looking to correct crow's feet and/or sagging eyebrows, you may opt for Botox® injections, an eyebrow lift, or facelift surgery.
What causes dark circles under the eyes? Will they be lessened by blepharoplasty?
Dark circles are not caused by excess eyelid skin; therefore, blepharoplasty will not correct this problem. It is said that "bags" under the eyes are visible blood vessels, caused by a lack of sleep or heredity.
How long will eyelid surgery results last?
Blepharoplasty results are long-lasting; however as the patient naturally ages, sagging, loose skin surrounding the eyes may once again reappear.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
There is minor discomfort associated with eyelid surgery. Following surgery, a patient will feel a slight tightening sensation, but that fades within days. Usually, soreness can be easily controlled with a pain reliever.
Will there be scarring or bruising? If so, will it be permanent?
Both scarring and bruising will be present after blepharoplasty. Bruises will subside within the first week, and scars will remain pink for several months, and then fade to a white, nearly invisible line at about the six month period.
What is laser eyelid surgery? What are the other types of eyelid surgery?
Laser eyelid surgery is similar to the other types of eyelid surgery, but boasts less scarring (if at all), discoloration, and swelling, as well as a shorter recovery period. Other forms of eyelid surgery include the traditional method and transconjunctival blepharoplasty, and "Asian double eyelid surgery." Patients may also choose from upper and/or lower eyelid surgery.
How long is eyelid surgery recovery?
Days after surgery, discomfort and swelling begin to lessen. If traditional eyelid surgery was performed, stitches are removed after a week and shortly thereafter, bruising fades. For the first week, you will need to avoid any activities that are strenuous to the eyes, especially because vision may be blurred.
What type of surgeon should perform my procedure?
Only a skilled plastic surgeon should perform blepharoplasty surgery. It is recommended that you choose a plastic surgeon who specializes in eyelid surgery and is highly experienced in facial plastic surgery.