Blepharoplasty 101: The Basics of Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
As we age, our eyelids stretch and the muscles around them begin to weaken. Excess fat may begin to accumulate above and below the eyelids, causing upper eyelids to droop and bags to form underneath the eyes. Cosmetic eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can rejuvenate weary eyes, making you look younger and more vibrant.
Dr. Anya Kishinevsky serves people in the greater Norwalk and Fairfield, CT, area. She has over 15 years of experience with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. She can answer all of your questions about blepharoplasty and explain the treatment that will make you look years younger. Here are the basics on this facial plastic surgery procedure.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that corrects droopy eyelids. It usually involves removing excess fat, muscle, and skin around the eyes.
Besides aesthetic factors, sagging skin around the eyes can reduce your field of vision. Blepharoplasty can correct these vision problems, while also creating a more youthful appearance.
Insurance may cover upper eyelid blepharoplasty if the condition is severe enough to impair vision. If your reasons for having the procedure are strictly cosmetic, insurance probably will not cover the surgery. Blepharoplasty on the lower eyelid is rarely covered by insurance.
Risks Involved with Blepharoplasty
Some risks to undergoing a Blepharoplasty procedure include:
- Infection
- Dry eyes
- Difficulty closing eyes
- Scarring
- Skin discoloration
- Temporarily blurred vision or, in rare cases, loss of vision
We work to minimize the risk of these complications through careful pre-treatment planning and attentive post-op care.
Before the Procedure
Before surgery most patients will undergo:
- A physical. A surgeon will conduct a physical examination on the patient, which may include the testing of tear production.
- A vision examination. An eye doctor will examine the eyes and test the patient’s vision, including their field of vision. This will be necessary to ensure the procedure is covered by insurance.
- Eyelid photography. The patient’s eyes will be photographed from different angles. These photos help with planning the surgical procedure.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Before the Surgical Procedure
Blepharoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure. The surgeon will numb the eyelids and may administer a sedative intravenously to help the patient relax.
During the Blepharoplasty
For upper eyelid surgery, an incision is made along the natural fold/crease of the upper eyelid. Excess fat, skin, and muscle are removed and the incision is then closed.
On the lower eyelid, an incision is made just below the lashes. The surgeon will remove or redistribute excess fat, muscle, and sagging skin and then close the incision.
After Surgery Is Completed
Patients usually spend time in a recovery room just after the procedure, where they are monitored as anesthesia wears off. Patients are then allowed to leave and recuperate at home.
Some temporary side effects to blepharoplasty may include:
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Double vision
- Eyelids that are puffy and numb
- Swelling and bruising around the eyes
- Some pain or discomfort
These side effects are temporary. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions as part of your consultation.
The Results of Blepharoplasty
Many people are happy with the results of blepharoplasty, which include a more rested, youthful appearance, higher self-esteem, and greater self-confidence.
Learn More About Blepharoplasty
Dr. Kishinevsky has an excellent reputation as a plastic surgeon. If you’re interested in learning more about blepharoplasty, call our Norwalk, CT, office at (203) 388-9919 or schedule a consultation online to learn what we can do for you.