Background:

Aesthetic (cosmetic) eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, removes the excess fat and wrinkled, drooping skin of the upper eyelids that can result in tired or sad looking face. It also eliminates bags under the eyes and tightens the lower eyelid skin. Aesthetic eyelid surgery is performed to correct problems that are the results of aging as well as inherited traits that cause patients to seek treatment as early as their 20s or 30s.

Technique:

The particular technique the plastic surgeon recommends will depend on many factors, such as the amount of excess fat and skin in the eyelid areas, the position of the eyebrows, and the condition of the muscle around the eyelids. For upper eyelid surgery, generally an incision is hidden in the natural fold of the upper eyelid and extends slightly beyond the outer corner into the laugh lines or other existing creases. Through this incision, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed. Because the incision follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid, it will be well camouflaged when healed. For lower eyelid surgery, often an incision is hidden just beneath the lower lashes. Through this incision, excess skin, muscle and fat are removed, or fat may be redistributed to eliminate puffiness and bulges. Other adjustments to correct special problems such as muscle laxity may be performed. As in upper eyelid surgery, the incision is well camouflaged by natural creases. In some cases, the best approach for removing excess fat is through an incision placed inside the lower eyelid. This technique requires no external incision, but it cannot be used to remove excess skin.

Benefits:

• Brighter, more alert and rested appearance.


• Incisions will fade over a number of months until they become barely visible.


• Significant complications from aesthetic eyelid surgery are infrequent.


• Usually performed on an outpatient basis. There is little discomfort, and patient will be able to resume most normal activities within 10 days.


• High level of patient satisfaction.

Other Considerations:

• Every surgical procedure carries some risk. Potential complications include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal), infection and reactions to anesthesia.


• Bruising, mild swelling, blurriness and "tight" sensation around the eyes are common, short-lived symptoms following surgery.


• Following surgery, there can be a feeling of dryness or irritation in the eye that requires treatment.


• Possibility of temporary decrease in sensation of the eyelid skin or impaired eyelid function sometimes requires additional surgery.


• High blood pressure, thyroid problems, diabetes, allergies or conditions like "dry eye" may increase the risks associated with eyelid surgery.