TYPES OF BLEPHAROPLASTY

          It has been said that "the eyes are the windows to the soul".  Many Americans feel the same as over one hundred thousand men and women choose blepharoplasty every year to improve the appearance of their eyes.  In 2006, blepharoplasty, or an eyelid lift, was the most commonly performed facial cosmetic surgical procedure in the country.  Men represent 20% of the total.

         Because of its thin skin, the eyes are one of the first areas to show aging and can appear as early as the late twenties or early thirties.  Excess eyelid skin and puffiness can make you look sad, tired, or even angry.  Heavy upper eyelids can also impair vision.  BLEPHOROPLASTY   can help remove ‘bags under the eyes', improve dark circles if caused by puffiness, remove excess skin and bulging fat, and soften fine lines and wrinkles.  Blepharoplasty results in a more youthful, refreshed appearance with a younger, firmer eye.

As with all facial plastic surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites.  During the pre-surgical consultation, you will be examined and asked questions regarding your vision, tear production, use of lenses, and your desires for surgery.

        By itself, an eyelid lift cannot improve a sagging eyebrow, crow's feet, or dark circles caused by sun damage or hormonal changes.  Many times, Dr. Majmundar may also recommend a browlift or additional  SKIN RESURFACING   to achieve the best results.

       There are 2 types of blepharoplasty: upper lid and lower lid.  Both can be performed under twilight or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis.  In upper lid blepharoplasty, an incision is made in an upper lid crease and excess overhanging skin and bulging fat are removed.  Fine sutures, attention to detail, and careful skin closure are used to minimize the visibility of any scar.  This results in a more defined lid crease and an open, refreshed appearance to the eye.

         Lower lid blepharoplasty can be performed in two ways.  Most commonly, an external incision is made just below the eyelashes and bulging fat and excess skin are removed smoothing not only the lower eyelid but the cheek skin below it as well before careful and detailed  SKIN   closure using fine sutures is performed.  Alternatively, a hidden incision can be made on the inside of the lower eyelid allowing removal of fat with a separate, less invasive procedure to remove excess skin.  The type of blepharoplasty you need depends on age, skin type, ethnic background, and degree of vision obstruction.

         After the surgery, discomfort is controlled with ice packs and  PAIN MEDICINE   but most patients rely on Tylenol or nothing at all after the first night.  You can also expect to have some swelling and bruising that will resolve in approximately 7 days but can easily be covered with make-up or sunglasses.