Eyelid Enhancement with Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reshapes both the upper and lower eyelid as well as relocates the excess tissue that surrounds the eyeslids and strengthens the surrounding muscles and tendons. Blepharoplasty is typically performed to remove excess eyelid skin that causes loss of peripheral vision by blocking a person’s line of sight, causing difficulty with daily activities such as driving and reading.

Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty can be done both to improve one’s vision or for cosmetic purposes.  Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is always done for cosmetic reasons, since it improves the physical appearance of the eyes by removing the “eye bags” and reduces the wrinkling of the skin in the area.

Post Surgery
After the surgery, most patients will experience bruising and swelling that lasts about seven to ten days. Patients should have ample time to rest their eyes and should avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses during the recovery period.

Risks and Complications
After a blepharoplasty , certain complications may arise which. Although risks and complications are rare for the blepharoplasty procedure, it is still advisable to be aware of possible complications.  Complications can include bleeding and infection, abnormal folding of the eyelid skin, and abnormal discoloration. Patients may also experience an inability to fully close their eyes after the procedure.  All side effects should be immediately reported to your doctor.

Non-Surgical Blepharoplasty
Patients have the option of having injectable fillers like Juvederm or Restylane to replace volume in the area between the lower eyelid and the cheek to replace the fat from this area that has moved or sunk with age. As newer, longer lasting fillers become available, non-surgical alternatives to blepharoplasty are now possible.  Non-surgical blepharoplasty takes about ten minutes, is relatively painless, and causes little to no bruising. The effects of non-surgical blepharoplasty can last around 18 months. After the procedure it is common to have swelling or bumpiness below the eye.

Although a doctor may suggest the blepharoplasty for a variety of important reasons, it is critical to understand the expected aesthetic and functional enhancements as well as the possible risks of blepharoplasty surgery.  Depending on your reasons and desired expectations, you should also be aware of non-surgical alternatives to traditional blepharoplasty that may enable you to enhance the appearance of your eyes without a surgical procedure.