Eyelid Surgery

One of the first things we see when communicating and connecting with people are their eyes. So, it’s no wonder that many people want to protect their appearance. With age, our skin and tissues lose elasticity resulting in droopy skin and bulging fat in the upper and lower eyelid. An eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can help to improve these issues, and restore a more youthful appearance of the eyes and face.

An upper or lower eyelid surgery can address several issues, such as:
· Drooping or excessive skin
· Wrinkles
· Puffiness or bags under the eyes
· A desire for a more youthful eye appearance or better expressions

Eyelid Surgery Explained

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure focused on rejuvenating the appearance of the eyelids. Depending on the patient’s individual treatment plan, this procedure can be performed in the office under local anesthesia or in the operating room with the patient asleep. The surgery can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids, or both, depending on individual goals. 

Upper eyelid procedure
An incision is made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid. With this incision, excess eyelid skin is removed, and possibly some underlying fat, depending on the patient’s pre-operative exam. This helps restore a more youthful appearance to the upper eyelid by accentuating its natural curves and shape. By using the natural crease of your eyelid, this incision is very well concealed.

Lower eyelid procedure
Lower eyelid surgery can vary depending on the degree of aging. Two common complaints include lower lid skin excess and bulging fat, which can give patients a “tired” or “puffy” appearance. In the operating room, an incision is made either within your eyelid or at the lower lash line. Several surgical options are possible depending on the patient’s exam, including fat removal/repositioning, tissue tightening, and removal of excess skin.

The procedure aims to create a more alert, youthful, and refreshed appearance by addressing issues such as excess skin, wrinkles, and bulging fat around the eyes. Blepharoplasty is often chosen by individuals seeking to enhance their overall facial aesthetics and diminish signs of aging in the eye area.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, offers a range of transformative benefits, addressing both cosmetic and functional concerns around the eyes. Here are key advantages:
  • Improved Aesthetic Appearance: The procedure reduces sagging skin, wrinkles, and puffiness, providing a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance to the eyes.
  • Enhanced Peripheral Vision: In cases of severe upper eyelid sagging, blepharoplasty can lift the eyelids, improving the field of vision and alleviating obstruction.
  • Reduced Under-Eye Bags: Lower eyelid surgery diminishes the appearance of under-eye bags and puffiness, contributing to a smoother and more rested look.
  • Boost in Self-Confidence: Achieving a refreshed and revitalized eye area often leads to increased self-confidence and overall satisfaction with one's facial aesthetics.
  • Long-Lasting Results: The results of eyelid surgery are long-lasting, providing enduring improvements to the contours and appearance of the eyes.

How Our Plastic Surgeons Can Help

At Pinnacle Dermatology, our skilled surgeons specialize in transformative eyelid surgeries, providing personalized solutions for a refreshed and youthful appearance around the eyes. If you're considering blepharoplasty to address excess skin or sagging around your eyelids, schedule a consultation with us today.

Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through the process, ensuring your goals are understood and achieving the best results possible. Rediscover a more vibrant and revitalized gaze with Pinnacle Dermatology. Schedule your consultation now to embark on your journey to enhanced eyelid aesthetics.

View Dr. Dino Mendez's Eyelid Before and After Gallery.

Upper Blepharopolasty Before and After Photos by Dr. Mendez: Patients 1-3

LOWER BLEPHAROPOLASTY BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS by DR. MENDEZ: Patients 1-3

Eyelid Surgery FAQs

Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, typically experience concerns such as sagging skin, wrinkles, or puffiness around the eyes. A consultation with a qualified surgeon will assess your individual goals and eye anatomy to determine if the procedure aligns with your needs.

While there will be some incisions made, skilled surgeons aim for minimal scarring, often placing incisions in natural creases or hidden areas. Over time, scars typically fade, and post-operative care instructions can contribute to optimal healing.

Recovery times vary, but most patients can expect initial swelling and bruising to subside within a few weeks. Complete healing, including the resolution of residual swelling and fading of scars, may take several months. Following post-operative care instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.

In cases where upper eyelid sagging obstructs vision, blepharoplasty can potentially improve peripheral vision by lifting the eyelids. This functional benefit is often an additional advantage for those experiencing vision issues due to sagging skin.

Skilled surgeons aim for natural-looking results, enhancing the eyes' appearance without an overly operated look. The goal is to achieve a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance that harmonizes with your facial features.

Learn about Eyelid Surgery

What to Expect at Your Eyelid Surgery Appointment

Before your eyelid surgery procedure, a comprehensive consultation appointment will take place. During this session, your surgeon will discuss your goals, assess your eye anatomy, and review your medical history to determine the most suitable approach.

Following this thorough discussion, the actual eyelid surgery procedure appointment will be scheduled, where the surgical team will implement the customized plan with precision and care. The duration of the procedure may vary based on the complexity of the surgery, but generally, it takes about two to three hours. The surgeon will begin by administering anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process.

For upper eyelid surgery, excess skin is carefully removed, and adjustments may be made to underlying tissues. In lower eyelid surgery, fat deposits may be repositioned or removed, and the skin tightened. The surgical team focuses on achieving natural, balanced results. F

ollowing the procedure, you'll be monitored during the initial recovery period, and post-operative care instructions will be provided to support a smooth healing process. 

How to Prepare for Eyelid Surgery

In preparation for your eyelid surgery appointment, carefully follow the pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. This may involve adjustments to medications, lifestyle considerations, and adhering to fasting guidelines. Communicate openly about your medical history, current medications, and any changes in your health since the initial consultation.

Wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure and arrange for transportation, as you may not be able to drive yourself home after receiving anesthesia. Ensure that your post-operative recovery space at home is comfortable and equipped with any recommended items. A supportive friend or family member can assist in absorbing the information provided during the appointment and offer assistance during the recovery process. This preparation ensures a smooth and well-informed experience as you embark on your eyelid surgery journey

Planning for Recovery after Eyelid Surgery

Following eyelid surgery, it's important to anticipate certain side effects during the recovery period. Common experiences include temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the eyes. These effects typically peak in the first few days and gradually subside over the following weeks. Pain medication, as prescribed by your surgeon, can help manage any discomfort. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can assist in minimizing swelling.

Eyelid incisions are closed with sutures which are typically removed 5-7 days after surgery.. A lubricating ointment will be applied to your incisions and eyes for the first week after surgery. Recovery time is about minimizing swelling and bruising. This is variable based on the surgery performed, but typically patients feel comfortable going out into public at 1 week and attending social events at 2 weeks. Contact lenses and makeup can usually be restarted at two weeks after surgery. Sun protection of your incisions is recommended starting two weeks after surgery.

Complete healing, including the resolution of residual swelling and the fading of any visible scars, may take several months. During this time, it's advisable to avoid strenuous activities and follow post-operative care instructions diligently. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon will monitor your progress, ensuring a successful and comfortable recovery from your eyelid surgery.

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