Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can correct sagging eyelids, pouches beneath the eyes, and excess folds around the eyes. This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat on upper and lower eyelids, resulting in a smoother, more youthful appearance. Brow and forehead lifts are designed to raise eyebrows and reduce ridges and furrows on the forehead.
Before surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. The amount, distribution and type of excess skin to be removed is carefully noted. The physician describes the anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected, and possible risks and complications
The procedure
Blepharoplasty can be performed under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or under local anesthesia in which the area is numbed and the patient remains awake. Incisions are made following natural lines and creases. Excess fat and skin are then removed from the underlying compartments. The amount of fat excised is determined by the degree of protrusion of fat when pressure is gently applied to the area. Small sutures are used to close the incision and special ointments and dressing may be applied. For a brow or forehead left, the incision is hidden in the hairline, the forehead and brows are elevated and excess skin is removed, and the incision is sutured.
After surgery
Sutures are removed within a week. Some swelling and bruising occur but subside in a few days. The physician determines when normal activities can be resumed; however, strenuous exercise must be avoided for several weeks following surgery. |
