Cosmetic eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is used to improve the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. It is a way to treat excess skin and fat deposits around the eyes that gives a more youthful, rested and energetic appearance to the face.
If your vision is obscured, eyelid surgery can be performed for medical reasons and is often covered by insurance.
Ideal patients for eyelid surgery are individuals who are healthy and wish to rejuvenate their appearance. Eyelid surgery can specifically treat:
The procedure should result in smoother, more youthful skin contours around the eyes, presenting a more awake, attractive and healthy appearance. Vision may be improved, and your expressions may appear more positive.
Eyelid surgery may be combined with a number of other treatments for the best possible outcome. These treatments may include Botox and filler injections, a facelift or a brow lift. Skin resurfacing treatments, such as laser peels or chemical peels, may also be used to improve the surface color and texture of the skin around and under the eyes.
In order to ensure comfort and relaxation, intravenous sedation is often used for eyelid surgery. The upper eyelid incision is made within the natural crease within the eyelid and extends from the inner corner to slightly beyond the outer corner of the eye. Excess fat and skin are removed through the incision and the skin is closed with fine sutures.
Lower eyelid procedures have incisions located either immediately below the eyelid lashes or on the inside of the eyelid itself. Incisions located within the eyelid do not produce any visible scarring, but may not be used to remove excess skin. With the external incision, fat is re-positioned to maintain essential volume in the area and excess skin is removed as necessary; a laser may also be used to tighten and firm the skin beneath the eye. The incision is closed using very fine sutures for minimal scarring.
Following surgery, an ointment will be applied to the eyes which may temporarily blur your vision. Some swelling and bruising are likely, but discomfort should be minimal. The first few days should be spent with the head elevated and cold compresses applied to the eyes. Any tightness or discomfort should be soothed by the ointment or over-the-counter artificial tears.
Stitches are removed after the first week, but bruising and swelling may persist for 2-3 weeks. Concealing makeup may be applied at this time if desired. Normal non-strenuous activities may be resumed in 7-10 days, though caution should be taken not to strain the eyes or do heavy lifting for several weeks.
Call 212.794.4000 today to make an inquiry or schedule a confidential appointment at our Manhattan Office.
For Long Island, please call 516.484.9000.
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