The eyelid skin is much thinner than other parts of the body and it is often one of the first facial areas that signs of aging. Eyelids that sag or droop can affect peripheral vision, making daily activities more difficult.
Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is a plastic surgery procedure to correct sagging or drooping eyelids and tightens the eyelid’s muscles and tissue, this procedure also includes the removal of excess skin and fatty tissue. A functional blepharoplasty eliminates the drooping of skin into the visual field, and the cosmetic type performs on the area surrounding eyes and can help restore a naturally young, refreshed appearance to tired-looking, aging eyes.
Procedure:
The procedure lasts from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether both the upper and lower eyelids are operated or one of them. Blepharoplasty is performed under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. This is outpatient procedure and the patients return to home after the surgery.
Recovery:
After the procedure, the incisions are closed with sutures, surgical tape, and usually small dressing applied so the area can heal. Postoperative bandages are worn for 6 days. There is a possibility of hematoma that usually resolves within 7-14 days. Patients can resume with their everyday activities after the removal of bandages. Contact lenses and eye makeup may not be worn for 2 weeks after surgery. Patients are typically advised to wear dark sunglasses outside or in bright light for 2 weeks to protect their eyes from sun and wind. Postoperative scars after removal of bandages are barely visible. Surgeon will give specific instructions on how to care.