As a person becomes older, it is natural for them to experience weakening muscles and a severe decrease in the skin’s elasticity. This results in sagging, loose skin that can give you a droopy and aged look. One of the most common signs of the aging process is the development of droopy eyelids. As you age, the muscles that are responsible for lifting the eyelids and holding it in place tend to stretch, causing the eyelids to droop.

Having drooping eyelids can make you look older and constantly tired. In some severe cases, it can also affect one’s field of vision. A corrective procedure known as a blepharoplasty can be performed to lift your eyelids. This will make you look younger and resolve any issues associated with vision.

Droopy eyelids are sometimes found in young children. In such cases, blepharoplasty is recommended in order prevent a condition called lazy eye in which one eye focuses better than the other.

Blepharoplasty should only be performed by an experienced medical professional. The surgery is minimally invasive and should only be performed with the extreme care and precision that only an skilled surgeon can provide. To properly prepare for the procedure, you will need to make sure to take the precautions as advised by your surgeon during the weeks leading up to the surgery. Here is a general overview of the procedure.

Before The Procedure

Once you have decided to undergo a blepharoplasty, you will need to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, your doctor will possibly ask you to undergo some tests to evaluate the condition of your eyes and the skin around your eyes.

Typically, these tests are used to analyze factors such as dryness of the eye, the elasticity of the eyelids, and the unique anatomy of the eyes. Based on the results, your surgeon will develop a customized treatment plan to suit your needs.

The Procedure

Typically, a blepharoplasty involves the removal of excess skin and fat surrounding the eyelids and tightening the muscle that is responsible for holding up the eyelids and retaining their youthful look. The entire procedure can last up to two hours.The procedure consists of making incisions on both the upper and lower eyelid though lower lids are included only if necessary.

While operating the upper eyelid, your surgeon will first determine the amount of skin that needs to be removed and make markings along the eyelid accordingly. Incisions are made along these markings. Once the necessary incisions are made, your doctor will then remove any excess skin and fat.

Once the appropriate corrections are made, your doctor will close the incisions. For the lower eyelids, incisions are made to remove excess fat and then a special type of laser is used to smoothen out the fine lines in the skin. The incisions and suture lines will be strategically placed to limit their visibility after the surgery.

What to Expect After The Surgery

After the surgery, there will be some slight swelling around the eyes. Stitches will be removed only after a week or so. During this time, it is advisable to use ice packs to bring down the swelling. Your surgeon may prescribe topical antibiotics to be applied on the site where the surgery has been performed.

Complete healing can take a few weeks and during this period it is advisable to refrain from engaging in strenuous activities. The results provided by a blepharoplasty can last for nearly seven years and rarely needs to be repeated. The eye, however, will continue to age naturally.

Contact Our Office

Interested in learning more about a blepharoplasty? Contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Wagner. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Wagner can help deliver the aesthetically pleasing results you desire.