What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, also referred to as Eyelid lift, Eyelid tuck or Eyelid surgery, is a safe, effective and common procedure that allows the surgeon to reshape the upper and lower eyelids. By removing excess fat, skin and atrophied muscles, the eyelid can be reshaped to get rid of bags under the eyes and the excess skin of the upper eyelid which very often obstructs good vision as we age. Age, sun exposure, smoking and hereditary factors can all contribute to wrinkles, deep lines and sagging skin around the upper eyes. This aging process can cause people to look older as well as cause us to have a tired or sad facial expression.
Every upper Eyelid surgery must be customized for each patient because it is critically important to create a natural, rested look after surgery and not a “wide-eyed” expression. In fact, almost every patient considering upper eyelid surgery desires a post-operative appearance that leaves them looking like a rested, better version of themselves without looking strange or “surprised”.
To view before and after surgical pictures click here.
Candidates for Blepharoplasty
- Hooded upper eyelids
- Tired, sleepy appearance
- Under eye bags
- Low eyebrows
- Vision obstruction
About the Procedure
The incision for a Blepharoplasty procedure is placed in the natural crease that is already present above the eyelid and it is therefore imperceptible when the eye is open. Through these incisions, the skin will be separated from the underlying fatty tissue, and excess fat, and loose skin will be removed. If the brow is found to be in a low position, it will be repositioned to its proper height prior to performing upper eyelid surgery in order to provide the right foundation for the most natural, youthful appearance of the upper eyes after surgery. Very fine sutures close the incisions and the eyes are lubricated with an ointment. Depending on the extent of tissue removal, the eyes may be bandaged. The Blepharoplasty procedure can be performed along with a Facelift or other facial procedures for a better outcome and more complete satisfaction.
Procedure Preparation
Prior to a Blepharoplasty procedure, Dr.Peter Abramson recommends that patients adhere to standard pre-op guidelines to allow for patient safety and maximum post-op results as follows:
- Eat a healthy diet rich in nutrients.
- DO NOT smoke in the weeks surrounding the procedure.
- DO NOT take pain medication containing aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Provide Dr. Abramson with a list of any medications that are taken regularly.
- DO NOT eat or drink after midnight the night before the procedure.
- DO NOT wear makeup or contact lenses to surgery.
- Patients must have a friend or relative drive them to and form the procedure.
Aftercare and Recovery
Because Blepharoplasty is considered to be a non-invasive out-patient procedure, patients can begin the recovery process in the comfort of their own home the same day as surgery. After the procedure, a loose fitting dressing is applied. Typically, there is little to no discomfort after surgery; however, if pain is present it can easily be controlled with over-the-counter medication. Discoloration and bruising is a normal part of the recovery process and generally fades away within seven days. To help the recovery process, Dr. Abramson suggests that patients do the following:
- Recline in a face-up position at a 45-degree angle for at least one week
- Avoid strenuous activities for 2 to 3 weeks
- Keep scheduled follow-up appointments following surgery
Rhinoplasty Atlanta uses innovative, state-of-the-art techniques and instruments to perform a variety of Rhinoplasty and aesthetic procedures for patients throughout the Metro Atlanta, GA area including Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Marietta, and Johns Creek. Call 404/297-1789 today to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Abramson to determine if Rhinoplasty is right for you.