Eyelid surgery, scientifically known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure used to improve the appearance of the eyelids. The surgery can rejuvenate the upper and lower lids, or both, as well as repair functional issues. What this entails is repairing droopy eyelids, and/or removing excess skin, muscle, and fat. Puffiness, often caused by fatty deposits, under eye bags, and drooping lower lids can also be corrected. Reduction of severe sagging at the outer areas of the eyelid can even improve vision as the excess skin can block peripherals. Overall the procedure will rejuvenate the eye area and will result in a more awake appearance.

Other factors that make you a good candidate
for eye surgery include:

  • -If you are in overall good health without medical conditions that can impair healing
  • If you do not have any serious eye conditions
  • If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyelids and find the surrounding skin ages you
  • If you find that excess skin around your eyes is impairing your vision
  • If you have severe under eye bags that may be hereditary or from excess skin
  • If you are a nonsmoker

What are the steps of eyelid surgery?

Step 1 – Anesthesia

Your doctor will administer medications for your comfort during the surgery. Based off what is best for you, this could be intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.

Step 2 – The incision

Generally, your surgeon will work on your upper lids first, followed by the lower lids if necessary. Incisions will be made within the natural crease of the eyelid and will be well concealed. Once the incision has been completed, any removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles, and/or removal of excess skin will take place. If conditions of the lower lid are also being corrected, an incision is made just below the lower eyelid. Excess fat is removed or repositioned, and skin may or may not be removed depending on the condition of the lower lid.

Step 3 – Closing the incisions

Eyelid surgery is completed when the incisions are closed with sutures or skin glue. Sutures, if used, will be removed after approximately one week. In this time, you may notice discoloration of the lower eyelids. Your doctor may recommend a laser or chemical peel to improve any dark circles.

Step 4 – The Results

It is important that you have realistic expectations with your eyelid surgery as results can vary. Most individuals see long-lasting or permanent changes, while others can experience recurring droopiness. Your final results will appear gradually due to post surgical swelling and bruising which may take up to 14 days to subside. Scars from incision sites may take months to fade and will never disappear completely. Ongoing sun protection and use of darkly tinted sunglasses must be a diligent practice until the eyes are fully healed. After a few months, you will notice a more youthful and rested appearance, that will give you newfound confidence.