Spotlight on Blepharoplasty: Is it Right for You?

Have you noticed your eyelids are drooping and it is affecting your vision? Drooping eyelids can also make you look tired and self-conscious. 

A blepharoplasty can help correct drooping eyelids and enhance the overall appearance of your eyes. But is the procedure right for you?

This article examines blepharoplasty, including its side effects and risks, and what to expect during recovery.
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How is a blepharoplasty performed?

Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and fat from the eyelids. It is performed on an outpatient basis, which means you will not spend the night at the surgical center or hospital.
Before the procedure, you may be given a sedative along with a numbing medication, so you do not feel any discomfort.

During the procedure, your surgeon removes excess skin and fat from around your eyelids, which may include the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. Additionally, the surgeon tightens the connecting muscles and tendons to improve eyelid function. The surgery improves both the function and appearance of the eyelids. 

If you have an upper blepharoplasty, the procedure will remove the skin hanging over the lashes. Doing this may improve a tired appearance and give your eyes a more open look. A lower blepharoplasty improves the appearance of loose skin on the lower eyelid including under eye bags.

If your doctor considers blepharoplasty medically necessary because drooping eyelids are interfering with vision, your insurance may cover the procedure. In other cases, the procedure is cosmetic in nature and not covered by most insurance plans.
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What is the recovery like after blepharoplasty? 

After the procedure, you spend time in the recovery area, where staff will monitor you before leaving.  A staff member provides you with instructions for your recovery, including follow-up care. Your doctor may prescribe eye drops or medication to reduce the risk of infection. 

Follow-up instructions may include placing ice packs on your eyes several times daily to reduce swelling. Your doctor may also instruct you to sleep with your head raised above your chest for a few days to reduce swelling. Wearing sunglasses may also help reduce sun exposure on sensitive, healing skin.

After surgery, you may have some temporary side effects, such as: 

• Bruising and swelling
• Watery eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Numb and puffy eyelids
• Mild pain or discomfort

Swelling, bruising, and discomfort typically lessen over time. Everyone's healing time might be slightly different, but swelling typically decreases within two weeks. Your doctor will inform you when you can resume normal activities, including exercise. 
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What are the risks? 

A blepharoplasty is generally a safe procedure. However, as with any type of surgery, there are risks and potential complications. Possible risks include the following: 

• Infection
• Skin discoloration
• Abnormal eyelid folding
• Eyelid muscle damage
• Scarring

Following post-operative instructions and being aware of the signs of complications reduces the risk of long-term problems.
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Are you a candidate for blepharoplasty? 

Not everyone is a candidate for blepharoplasty. Certain medical conditions that affect healing may be a contraindication to the procedure. Selecting individuals who are appropriate candidates reduces the risk of complications.

Individual circumstances may vary, and it is best to consult with your eye care specialists to determine if the procedure is right for you.  

According to the American Academy of Plastic Surgeons, appropriate candidates for blepharoplasty include the following: 

• Individuals who are healthy with no significant medical conditions that impair the healing process
• Non-smokers
• People with realistic goals for the procedure
• Individuals without any serious vision or eye conditions

Blepharoplasty is a good option to improve the appearance of your eyelids. In some cases, it can also improve vision that is hindered by droopy lids.

If you have any questions about whether you are a candidate for blepharoplasty, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.