A FEW THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE EYELID SURGERY
Get in the Know About Eyelid Surgery
Have you noticed that your eyelids have started to sag? Are you developing bags or dark circles under your eyes? Do you desire a more youthful and alert appearance? If so, then you may want to consider eyelid surgery (also known as blepharoplasty). At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, we’re experts in eyelid surgery and wanted to give you these facts to help you decide if this procedure is right for you.
WHAT IS EYELID SURGERY?
Eyelid surgery is a same-day, outpatient procedure that removes excess tissue from the upper and/or lower eyelids, reduces puffiness under the eyes, and diminishes dark circles for an overall more youthful and refreshed appearance. In addition, patients whose vision was blocked by their eyelids prior to surgery can expect to open their eyes more easily and have unobstructed vision after they are completely healed.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR EYELID SURGERY?
If you are trying to decide if eyelid surgery is right for you, then ask yourself the following questions:
- Do my upper eyelids sag because of excess skin?
- Do I have bags under my eyes even when I am fully rested?
- Is my vision blocked by droopy eyelids?
- Do my sagging eyelids make me look older than my true age?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you may want to speak to your ophthalmologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Fodero about eyelid surgery. Your doctors will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, administer a vision test, and photograph your eyelids to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING EYELID SURGERY?
Just prior to your surgery, your surgeon will numb your eyelids and administer intravenous medication to help you relax. During the actual procedure, the surgeon will first cut along the fold of the eyelid, remove some excess skin, muscle, and fat, and then stitch the cut closed. On the lower lid, the surgeon will cut just below the lashes in your eye’s natural crease or inside the lower lid. He or she will then remove or redistribute excess fat, muscle, and skin, and stitch the cut closed.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE SURGERY?
Immediately after surgery, you’ll spend time in a recovery room where you’ll be monitored for complications. If everything is fine, then you can leave later that same day. Be sure you have someone to drive you home as you may be a bit groggy.
You may temporarily experience these side effects for a few days following surgery:
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Double vision
- Redness
- Puffy eyelids
- Swelling and bruising
- Moderate pain
While you are recovering, your doctor may ask you to:
- Use prescribed eye drops or ointments as directed.
- Wear dark sunglasses to protect your eyelids while outside.
- Sleep with your head raised higher than your chest for several days.
- Apply cool compresses to the eyes.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities like lifting, jogging, and aerobic exercise for several days.
- Avoid smoking.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
- Not use contact lenses for two weeks after surgery.
- When is eyelid surgery not recommended?
You may not be a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery if you have:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism or Graves Disease
- Dry eyes or problems with tear ducts
- Detached retinas
- Glaucoma
If you have any of these issues, you could be at increased risk for complications during or after surgery.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH EYELID SURGERY?
As with any surgery, there are risks with eyelid surgery that you should be aware of. Be sure to ask your surgeon how likely you are to experience:
- Infection and bleeding
- Dry eyes
- Difficulty closing your eyes
- Noticeable scarring
- Injury to eye muscles
- Skin discoloration
- Temporarily blurred vision
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED RESULTS OF EYELID SURGERY?
The vast majority of eyelid surgeries are successful, and many people express satisfaction with the results. After you are completely healed, you can expect a more rested and youthful appearance. You’ll be able to fully open your eyes more easily and your vision will no longer be obstructed.
Northeastern Plastic Surgery understands your desire for a beautiful, youthful looking body and facial appearance. We use the latest plastic surgery techniques to perform a variety of surgical procedures. Dr. Fodero and the staff are very friendly, helpful, and available to answer any questions you may have about the procedures we offer. We strive to ensure that your experience with us is positive. Please contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.