As with any type of facial plastic surgery, realistic expectations and good health are a must. Individuals with ophthalmologic (eye) problems or serious medical conditions may not be good candidates for surgery. Your primary physician and specialists may determine if blepharoplasty is a realistic option to consider. The goal of surgery is to carefully remove the excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids, to help achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance to the eyes. The surgery does not improve sagging eyebrows, nor does it remove the dark circles or fine lines from around the eyes. During consultation, your surgeon may recommend that simultaneous procedures be performed, such as browlift or skin resurfacing to improve the appearance of the brows or the fine wrinkles.

Blepharoplasty is usually performed under intravenous sedation or "twilight" anesthesia, using local anesthesia to provide additional comfort. The intended surgical incisions are drawn out, using a marking pen. The upper lid incisions are designed to keep the final scar camouflaged as well as possible within a natural skin crease. Sometimes a small strip of muscle is removed to further define this crease. In addition, small pockets of excess fat are removed. The incisions are closed using delicate sutures. For the lower lids, the incision is made just below the lower lid lash line, or in some cases, is made inside the lower eyelid. The main advantage of the latter approach is that the incision is completely out of sight leaving no visible scars. Dr. Sanders will determine which type of incision/approach is best for your particular case. As with the upper lids, excess fat will be removed. Occasionally, excess skin may be removed. If the surgery is done using the "inside-the-eyelid" or transconjunctival approach, the lower eyelid skin may be resurfaced during the same sitting, using a chemical peel to improve the fine lines and wrinkles. Again, Dr. Sanders and his staff can best determine if you would benefit from this additional procedure. The surgery may take from one to two hours.

While in the recovery room, iced gauze will be applied to your eyes to help minimize bruising and swelling. Dr. Sanders will also prescribe medication to help with the swelling, antibiotics to help minimize infection, and pain medication to relieve discomfort. You will be required to keep the incision lines clean and apply ointment throughout the day, for 4-5 days. The sutures are removed 4-6 days after surgery. You may begin wearing eyeglasses one day following surgery. You may have to wait 10-14 days before resuming contact lens wear. In terms of activities, you should generally avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. Depending on the level of physical activity and public exposure associated with your job, most people can return to work within one to two weeks.

For more information about Blepharoplasty visit the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery website by clicking here.