COSMETIC PROCEDURES | Blepharoplasty

Eyes are a prominent facial feature. It is the surrounding skin, rather than the eyes themselves, that conveys emotion. The tissue, muscle, fat, hair and lashes all contribute to the wide array of expressions. Age, sun exposure and hereditary factors all contribute to wrinkles, deep lines and puffiness around the eyes. The aging process can cause unwanted changes in expression, causing us to look permanently fatigued and older than we really are. These changes in appearance can cause emotional distress and sometimes even visual impairment. An eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, is designed to restore a more youthful appearance to your eyes. It may involve the upper lids, the lower lids, or both.

We can perform blepharoplasty to correct sagging eyelids, bags or pouches beneath the eyes, as well as excess folds around the eyes. This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat on upper and lower eyelids and is often performed in conjunction with other surgical procedures including facelifts, eyebrow and forehead lifts. Blepharoplasty can be done under general anesthesia (with you asleep) or under IV Sedation. Both are very comfortable options. Pre-medication is utilized prior to surgery to decrease swelling after the operation.

Dr. Talebzadeh will trace the natural lines and creases of your face and make incredibly fine incisions from the inner to the outer edge of the eyelid. Surgery on the upper eyelid is performed first with the incision made in the fold of the lid. The incision is made below the eyelash on the lower eyelid. Any excess fat and skin are removed from the underlying compartments. The amount of fat excised is determined by the degree of protrusion of fat when pressure is applied to the area. Small sutures are used to close the incision and special ointments and dressings may be applied. The surgery can take up to 2 hours. In certain cases, lower eyelid incisions are made inside the lid. Laser may be used at the same time to reduce wrinkles.

Post-Operative Information

Initially, drying of the eyes can occur after blepharoplasty. This condition can be alleviated with medication. In addition, you may be sensitive to bright light and wind for a period of time. Numbness and itching may also occur during the healing process. A final evaluation may occur within several months from the initial surgical procedure.

Insurance

Your insurance company may pay for part of the cost of surgery if the procedure is performed as a result of visual impairment. Because every insurance carrier is different, it is recommended that you check with your own insurance company to determine the level of coverage. After the operation patients should expect bruising around the area that fades in 2 to 3 weeks. Pain associated with operation is minimal and can be easily treated with oral medication. The bandages are only needed for a few days and should be replaced with a lighter dressing. Refraining from sleeping on the ears is required and patients are advised to use a very soft pillow. Showering and shampooing may begin after a few days. Expect two to three days of recovery before normal activities can be performed. Consult with Dr. Talebzadeh before attempting any athletic or precarious activities that may affect the healing process.