Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, can resolve sagging in both the upper and lower eyelids, as well as undereye bags and
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Eyelid Surgery
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puffiness.
Upper and lower eyelid surgery each demand careful execution and expertise. Houston board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Berry Fairchild, has the skill and experience needed to deliver results that are natural looking and restore youthful-looking eyes. Dr. Fairchild understands how important it is to look as young and vital as you feel. She works closely with each patient to understand their unique needs and goals, enabling her to craft a treatment plant that enhances natural beauty and restores confidence.
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
As we age, one of the first areas of our face to reveal the passing of time is the eyes. The eyelids may droop or sag, and wrinkles may form around the eyes, due to a loss of skin elasticity. This can also result in a gaunt appearance as fat around the eyes decreases. Bags and puffiness under the eyes can contribute to an older and tired appearance.
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can correct drooping or sagging upper or lower eyelids, as well as remove bags and puffiness under the eyes. Some patients opt for treatment on only the upper or only the lower eyelids, while others choose to have both treated. The goal of the surgery is to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
- Improves the appearance of sagging or drooping eyelids
- Reduces bags and puffiness under the eyes
- Makes eyes look more youthful and refreshed
- Enhances peripheral vision, which may be hindered by droopy eyelids
- Boosts self-confidence and can have a positive impact on personal and professional life
- Can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids, or both
- Results are usually long-lasting, although they may be impacted by the natural aging process
Candidates For Eyelid Surgery
Good candidates for this cosmetic procedure are typically individuals who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure, and may have one or more of the following issues:
- Sagging or droopy eyelid skin
- Bags or puffiness under the eyes
- Excess skin or fat in the eyelid area
- Hooding of the upper eyelids that impairs vision
- A desire to improve the appearance of their eyes and achieve a more youthful and refreshed look
It is important to note that plastic surgery procedures for the eyes are not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or certain autoimmune diseases. Dr. Fairchild will evaluate each individual’s unique case and determine if blepharoplasty is a safe and appropriate option.
Preparing For Eyelid Surgery
During your consultation with Dr. Fairchild, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your cosmetic concerns and learn about blepharoplasty surgery. If blepharoplasty is right for you, Dr. Fairchild will create a treatment plan that is custom-tailored to your needs and goals, as well as your unique anatomy.
Dr. Fairchild may advise you to stop taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or certain herbal supplements several weeks before surgery to minimize the risk of bleeding during the procedure. It’s also important that you avoid alcohol and tobacco for at least three months before your procedure to minimize the risk of complications and promote a speedy recovery.
Blepharoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, but you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night after surgery. Plan ahead for time off work and make arrangements for help with daily activities as needed. Dr. Fairchild will provide you with specific instructions to follow in the days and weeks leading up to the procedure. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to maximize the chances of a successful outcome.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Upper blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation, to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Lower blepharoplasty is typically performed using general anesthesia. Dr. Fairchild begins by making incisions along the natural lines of the eyelids, either in the creases of the upper eyelids or just below the lower lash line. The incisions may also be made on the inside of the lower eyelids. Dr. Fairchild will then remove any excess skin, fat, and muscle from the eyelids as needed. If necessary, the fat may be repositioned or removed to improve the contour of the eyelids. The incisions are then closed with sutures. Finally, Dr. Fairchild will apply dressings to the eyelids to protect them and promote healing. The entire procedure typically takes one to two hours to complete, depending on the extent of the surgery. After the procedure, the patient will be monitored for a short time before being sent home with instructions for postoperative care.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure that addresses the signs of aging in the upper eyelids. It is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper lids that can cause sagging or drooping, impair vision, and create a tired or aged appearance. The procedure can restore a youthful and refreshed look to the eyes by creating a more smooth and more defined upper eyelid contour.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses signs of aging in the lower eye area. It is designed to remove excess skin and fat that can cause baggy dark circles and discoloration under the eyes as well as puffiness, and restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance to the lower eyelids and smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.
Recovery After Eyelid Surgery
The healing process after blepharoplasty varies from person to person, but patients can generally expect some swelling and bruising around the eyes after blepharoplasty. This typically peaks in the first two to three days before gradually subsiding over the following weeks. Pain after blepharoplasty is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Dr. Fairchild will provide detailed post-op instructions for keeping the incisions clean and dry, as well as instructions on how to change the dressings. For the first few days after the procedure, the patient should avoid strenuous activity and lifting heavy objects. Most people are able to return to work within one to two weeks of the procedure, although the exact timeline can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual’s recovery.
Eyelid Surgery Results
While patients will notice visible results within weeks of surgery, the final results are typically visible within three to six months, when any remaining swelling and bruising have
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What results should I expect after eyelid surgery?
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resolved.
It is important for patients to closely follow the instructions provided by Dr. Fairchild to ensure proper healing and optimal results. Most patients who undergo eyelid surgery enjoy dramatic results and a noticeably more youthful appearance.
FAQs About Blepharoplasty
Is blepharoplasty painful?
Most people experience only mild discomfort during and after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medication.
What is the recovery time for blepharoplasty?
The recovery time for blepharoplasty varies, but most people are able to return to work within one to two weeks and resume normal activities soon thereafter.
Will I have visible scarring after blepharoplasty?
The incisions made during blepharoplasty are placed in discreet locations in the natural creases of the eyelids and will typically heal with minimal scarring.
How long do the results of blepharoplasty last?
The results of blepharoplasty are usually long-lasting, although some people may need touch-up procedures or additional surgery as they continue to age.
Is blepharoplasty covered by insurance?
In some cases, blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary, such as when it is performed to correct ptosis or drooping eyelids that are affecting the patient’s vision. However, most blepharoplasty procedures are considered cosmetic and are not covered by insurance.
Can blepharoplasty be performed in conjunction with other facial procedures?
Yes, blepharoplasty can be performed in conjunction with other facial plastic surgery procedures, such as a facelift or brow lift, to achieve a more comprehensive result. It can also be combined with non-surgical anti-aging treatments and procedures, such as laser resurfacing, fillers, and Botox.
How much does blepharoplasty cost?
The cost of blepharoplasty can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, i.e., whether you are having an upper or lower eyelid procedure, or both, as well as whether additional procedures are being performed at the same time. The best way to determine your exact cost for the procedure is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Fairchild.
What are the risks of blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and potential complications. Some of the most common risks of blepharoplasty include infection, bleeding, sub-optimal scarring, asymmetry, double vision, and poor wound healing. Some people may experience temporary dry eyes or discomfort in the eyes after the procedure, which can usually be treated with
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Blepharoplasty
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eye drops.
Schedule A Consultation For Eyelid Surgery
Dr. Fairchild is dedicated to helping patients look and feel their best. If you’re in Houston or The Woodlands and would like to learn more about how eyelid surgery can restore more youthful-looking eyes, please contact us today.
1 UCSF Health. Eyelid Surgery. Available: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/treatments/eyelid-surgery. Accessed February 2, 2023.
2 ASPS. What results should I expect after eyelid surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/eyelid-surgery/results. Accessed February 2, 2023.
3 Mayo Clinic. Blepharoplasty. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blepharoplasty/about/pac-20385174. Accessed February 2, 2023.