What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid rejuvenation, is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures. As we age, the tissue above and below our eyes begins to look droopy. These heavy lids can make it difficult to keep the eyes open and give the appearance of fatigue. In some cases, excess fat and skin can block a person’s field of vision. If this is the case, it should be treated.

Blepharoplasty may be performed on the upper lids to restore the eyelid platform. This surgery can also improve baggy lower eyelids. Both procedures can make the eyes appear brighter, fresher and more alert.

Lower Eyelid

The lower eyelid is especially vulnerable to bags and wrinkles. Your wrinkles begin as tiny lines underneath your eye and crow’s-feet beside your eye. Those fine lines become deeper and more pronounced as gravity continues to weigh down your skin.

You have a collection of fat above and below your eye that cushions your eye in your eye socket. The orbital septum is an eyelid structure which is supposed to keep this collection of eye fat in place. As your skin loses its elasticity, your orbital septum weakens. When this happens, your fat swells into your lower eyelid. Your eyelid bulge then casts a deep shadow on your face when light shines down on you from above. This causes your eye to look puffy and swollen, and also makes you look tired.

Upper Eyelid

Your upper eyelid is vulnerable to other issues. As you age, your skin loses its elasticity, often resulting in extra fat and skin forming a drooping hood over your eyelid. The fat pad that cushions your upper eyelid may also start to protrude, causing your inner eyelid to bulge awkwardly. This results in a sagging, tired, “older” look.

The Procedure

We use a CO2 laser during your treatment to cauterize blood vessels and remove the excessive skin and underlying fatty tissue. This significantly reduces intra-operative bleeding and post-operative bruising and swelling, allowing a more speedy recovery time. The incisions are placed within the natural crease of the eyelids and usually heal without noticeable scarring.

You should plan to take three to five days off from work to have a blepharoplasty. Post-operative bruising around the eye is typical, and should be planned for. This can take anywhere from one to two weeks to clear up entirely. Discomfort tends to be relatively mild despite the bruising.

If you think you might be a good candidate for blepharoplasty, or have more questions about the procedure, please contact us today to arrange a consultation.