Blepharoplasty

What is a blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects abnormalities of your eyelids. It’s informally known as an eyelid lift.

Many people experience changes in their eyelids as they age. As you get older, the skin of your eyelids can stretch, and the muscles that support your eyelids can get weaker, leading your eyelids to droop.

This can result in abnormalities, such as:

• Folds and unevenness in your upper eyelids
• Puffy eyelids
• Drooping eyelids
• Bags under your eyes
• Excess skin and wrinkles in your eyelids

Blepharoplasty can improve the appearance and function of your eyelids. Many people choose to get eyelid surgery to look more youthful and alert. Others find blepharoplasty medically necessary because their eyelids are obstructing their field of vision.

The procedure involves removing the excess fat, muscle, and skin that are contributing to your sagging eyelids. Depending on your concerns, you may receive a blepharoplasty on your upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

How do I prepare for a blepharoplasty?

Your doctor will perform a detailed eye examination to determine if you’re a good candidate for blepharoplasty. This will include a vision test, a review of your medical history, and a discussion of your goals and expectations.

Before the surgery, you’ll need to stop taking any medications or supplements that can promote bleeding, including warfarin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen. If you smoke, you’ll need to stop several weeks beforehand.

What happens during blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure, which means you’ll receive it at the office and go home shortly afterward. Before the procedure, your doctor will inject a numbing medication into your eyelids and administer a sedative through an IV.

Your doctor will then make a small cut in your eyelid, following the natural fold, so the cut will be nearly unnoticeable once it heals. Then they’ll remove excess skin, muscle, or fat. They may also redistribute some muscle or fat to create a more even appearance.

Be sure to arrange for a ride home after the procedure. Swelling and bruising are common after the surgery, especially in the first 48 hours, which you can manage with ice packs and prescribed ointments. You can expect to return to your regular activities within 7-10 days.

To find out if a blepharoplasty is right for you, book an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Wayne H. Martin, MD today.