Do you notice your eyelids starting to sag, maybe even impacting your vision? Are you developing bags under your eyes? If so, then you may want to consider eyelid surgery (also known as blepharoplasty). As a plastic surgery office, Northeastern can provide you with the proper facts about eyelid surgery to help you make an informed decision about receiving the surgery.
What is eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is a same-day, outpatient procedure that removes excess tissue from your upper eyelids and/or lower eyelids to make your eyes appear younger and more alert.
Am I a candidate for eyelid surgery?
You may be a candidate for eyelid surgery if you have:
Are there reasons why I shouldn’t have eyelid surgery?
You may not be a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery if you have:
If you have any of these issues, you could be at increased risk for complications during or after surgery. Be sure to talk to your surgeon about any current or past health conditions.
What are the risks of eyelid surgery?
There are a number of possible risks associated with eyelid surgery. Be sure to ask your surgeon how likely you are to experience:
What happens before the procedure?
Before scheduling blepharoplasty, you will meet with a plastic surgeon and an ophthalmologist to discuss your medical history, surgical history, and any medications you are currently taking. Use this time as an opportunity to discuss your expectations for eyelid surgery and how likely you are to experience a satisfactory outcome.
Your doctors will also perform a physical examination, a vision test to determine if your eyelids are impacting your sight, and an eyelid photography session, which helps the surgeon plan the procedure.
Know that you’ll have to avoid smoking several weeks before surgery, and you’ll be required to stop taking blood thinning medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen at least two weeks before surgery.
What happens during the 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 procedure?
After surgery you’ll spend time in a recovery room, where you are monitored for complications. If everything is fine, then you can leave later that same day. Be sure you have someone to drive you as you may be a bit groggy.
You may temporarily experience these side effects:
Your doctor may give you these recommendations to follow at home:
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 without visual obstruction.
Note that eyelid surgery will not remove wrinkles around the eyes or “crow’s feet.” Nor will it correct any true vision problems or disorders of the eye.
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.
