The Effects of Heredity and Time Your eyes are usually the first thing that people notice about your appearance. They are probably the most important aspect of facial attractiveness. Even with a good night’s sleep, loose skin over your eyes or fat bags under your eyes can make you look tired or sad or older than you really are. As we go through life, even if we have taken care of ourselves, the skin around our eyes stretches and wrinkles. Fatty deposits cause the upper lids to sag while under the eye the tissue can bulge forward and become discolored. In severe cases, vision can become partially blocked. Typically, these unwanted characteristics come with age, beginning in the late thirties and early forties, but hereditary factors can cause a much younger person to appear prematurely aged. Exposure to the sun, use of alcohol, smoking and less than optimal nutrition all accelerate the signs of aging. Fortunately, through modern techniques and advances in an eyelid rejuvenation procedure called blepharoplasty, your doctor can help restore a more youthful, alert and healthy look to your eyes. Sometimes referred to as a “mini-face lift”, blepharoplasty has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for both men and women because of its high level of patient satisfaction. Blepharoplasty can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids. Before Blepharoplasty As a general rule, insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery. However, if your eyelids are encroaching upon your field of vision, the procedure may be covered as “medically necessary” surgery. Before surgery, your doctor will evaluate the condition and health of your eyes. Specifics regarding your vision, tear production, use of contact lenses, use of medications, and personal expectations will be discussed. This information, along with other factors such as age, skin type, and ethnic background, will allow both you and your surgeon to come to a mutual decision. Together, a plan will be discussed regarding the surgical technique, amount of surgery, and type of anesthesia to be used. Complications can occur with any surgery, however with blepharoplasty, serious complications are rare and most complications that occur can usually be corrected. Be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding risks and complications before giving your consent for blepharoplasty. During Blepharoplasty Blepharoplasty is generally done using only a local anesthetic. You may be given a mild sedative to help you relax. Depending on the amount of tissue to be removed, the procedure could take from 30-60 minutes. When performed on the upper eyelids, your doctor will remove the excess skin and fatty tissue that tends to accumulate along the upper lid causing the extra fullness and laxity. The incisions are made along the natural folds in the skin so that as they heal, they become difficult, if not impossible to see with the passage of time. When performed on the lower eyelids, providing there is not too much excess skin, your doctor will make the incision inside or behind the eyelid. This Technique is called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty which allows the removal of fatty deposits while avoiding the need for an external incision. If there is excessive skin or muscle folds below the eye, an incision may also be made just below the base of the eyelashes. As this incision heals, the fine scar should also become barley visible. After Blepharoplasty After the procedure you will need to have someone drive home. Bruising and swelling is common after the surgery and is usually noticeable for one to two weeks after the surgery. Some cases can be longer. Cold compresses as well as head elevation will help reduce swelling and bruising and minimize discomfort. Eye ointments and/or eye drops may be given to keep the eyes moist and clean. Postoperative discomfort is usually relatively mild although this will vary from patient to patient. Most patients require little, if any pain medication. Your eyes may feel sticky, dry and itchy for a week or so after the procedure. You will need to take special care in cleaning around the eyes for the first week or two. Your surgeon will give you a list of activities and environments to avoid being around during that time. Stitches are usually removed within five to ten days after surgery. Self-absorbing stitches will dissolve on their own. Make-up can usually be applied to camouflage bruising after the stitches are removed and a good pair of sunglasses may help you feel better when in public for a while. It is important to follow all of your postoperative instructions to speed healing and reduce the risks of incurring complications. Results of Blepharoplasty Before   |   After Most patients experience a marked improvement in the appearance of their eyes after blepharoplasty. In addition to improving some patients' vision, most patients report feeling more alert and energetic. Although the positive effects of having blepharoplasty on your appearance will be immediate, your results will not be considered final for up to six months as the healing process continues. If you want to look as good as you feel, ask Dr. Paveloff if you are a candidate for blepharoplasty. Are you interested in financing your procedure? Learn More... Understanding Your Vision   |   LASIK Vision Correction   |   NEW Multi-Focal Lenses   |   Cataracts & Eye Disease Aesthetic Procedures   |   About The Doctor   |   Questions & Answers   |   Patient Experiences   |   Connect With Us   |   Home For more information, call us at (805) 682-4459, or send an email. © Copyright 2005 Paveloff Vision Center Web Development by elation