Do your eyelids droop and affect your peripheral vision? As the eyelids age, they can be prone to drooping along the outer edges. This can affect your peripheral vision and your appearance. Dr. Nathan Anderson can examine your eyelids and perform what is known as a blepharoplasty.
Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty is commonly referred to as an eyelid lift, but it’s not actually a lift. The eyelid skin is not pulled up during the procedure. Instead, excess eyelid skin is removed in order to restore the appearance of the eyelids. Fat can also be added or subtracted to the eyelids in order to improve the look and function.
Why Eyelid Surgery Is Performed
Eyelid surgery is typically performed on the upper eyelids, but it can also be performed on the lower eyelids to reduce puffiness. The primary reason this surgery is performed is to remove excess eyelid skin that has fallen over the eyelashes and/or collects at the outside of the eye and blocks peripheral vision. Most individuals who need this type of surgery are over the age of 35. However, younger individuals may also suffer from droopy eyelids due to genetics.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
- Improves vision by removing excess eyelid skin
- Makes eyes appear younger
- Helps decrease the appearance of bags under the eyes when lower lid surgery is performed
Risks Associated with Blepharoplasty
- Bleeding and/or infection at the surgical sites
- Blurry vision immediately after the surgery
- Decreased functionality of the eyelids
- Discoloration to the eyelids and skin around the eyes
- Eyes that temporarily feel dry or irritated
Initial Appointment
An initial appointment is needed to determine if you are a good candidate for blepharoplasty and to have your eyes and eyelids examined. Dr. Anderson will also take photos of your eyelids and ask you about your medical history. If it is determined that you would benefit from eyelid surgery, our team at Anderson Ophthalmology will schedule your surgery.
Just Prior to Surgery
Dr. Anderson will provide you with pre surgery instructions prior to your blepharoplasty. In general, you will want to stop taking any medications that cause the blood to thin, including Ibuprofen, Warfarin and naproxen. If you smoke or use tobacco, you’ll want to stop smoking for several weeks prior to the surgery. Smoking can reduce your body’s ability to heal and cause complications after the surgery. You will also need to bring another driver with you on the day of your surgery.
Your Blepharoplasty Surgery
Blepharoplasty is typically performed at an outpatient surgical center. Just prior to the procedure you will be given medication to help you relax and to eliminate any pain you might feel during the surgery. Usually, this is accomplished via an IV.
Once you are properly prepared for the surgery, Dr. Anderson will begin by making a shallow cut near the top of your eyelids. Then, any excess skin will be removed, muscle and fat if needed. Next, the incision will be closed with a few stitches. The process is repeated for the other eyelid.
If you also need lower lid surgery, this is performed after your upper eyelid surgery. For this procedure, an incision is made just below the lower lashes, which helps hide the surgical scar. Next, excess fat and skin are removed in order to improve the appearance of the lower lid.
After your surgery, you will require some recovery time, usually an hour or two. Once you are alert, you will be released to go home. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled a day or two after the surgery to ensure your eyelids are healing correctly and to address any concerns or additional questions about your surgery and the recovery process.
To have your eyelids examined to determine if blepharoplasty would help you, give our office a call at 800-462-8749 or click here to schedule an appointment.