Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty is the technical term for cosmetic eyelid surgery, a procedure that enhances the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids or both. It reduces signs of weariness and aging that arise as folds or bags, and can also treat excess skin or fat in the area.
Who can benefit from eyelid surgery?
People who are unhappy with the aging (or other) effects around their eyelids can undergo eyelid surgery to correct problems including sagging skin, folds that obscure the natural shape of the eyelids, excess fat or skin that causes puffy eyes, bags beneath the eyes, drooping lower eyelids, and wrinkles on the lower eyelids. Something of the natural firmness and alertness of the skin around the eyes is rejuvenated, achieving a younger looking set of eyelids. Occasionally, folding on the upper eyelids can cause more than cosmetic problems by impairing your vision. In this case treatment is doubly effective.
Is it right for me?
It is important to have specific goals and realistic expectations for the treatment. The most successful eyelids surgeries are usually performed on men and women with healthy faces and no medical conditions that could interfere with recovery. Certain major eye conditions are incompatible with surgery and you must disclose any eye problems to the surgeon during your consultation, particularly detached retinas, glaucoma and ‘dry eye.’ The presence of more general conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure or other difficulties with circulation will also require serious consideration.
How the procedure works
The surgery itself involves placing the patient under anaesthesia or intravenous sedation depending on the individual. The surgeon will then make an incision in the contours of the upper or lower eyelid, which is designed to conceal any visible scarring within natural folds. A bigger incision is often necessary for the upper eyelid, whereas the lower eyelid requires a smaller incision below the eyelash line. Alternately a hidden transconjunctival incision may be made, and after all incisions the surgeon gets to work on enhancing the eyelids. Deposits of fat are manoeuvred, muscles and tissues tightened, and any excess skin removed to achieve the desired results.
The incisions are closed in different ways depending on the surgeon: with suturing that either needs to be removed later or absorbs into the skin, surgical tape, or skin adhesives.
Post-surgery and results
Following surgery, post-operative care should include having cold compresses and ointment applied over the eyelids in order to reduce swelling and bruising. Gauze is sometimes placed over the eyes for a period. When the bruising and inflammation go down between 1 and 2 weeks after the procedure, the treated eyelids will be revealed with newfound smoothness and definition. They should appear younger and full of life, though these full results may not be seen until 1 or 2 months after surgery. The incision lines gradually fade within a year. Although the procedure often seeks to make permanent changes, aging continues and can catch up with the eyelids again. For the best chance of prolonged results, remain protected from the sun as much as possible.
How much does eyelid surgery cost?
The factors influencing the price include the surgeon, your geographical location, hospital fees, and the extent of treatment. To treat both sets of eyelids it is not uncommon to pay a combined price of between $4000 and $5000. Most health insurance plans do not cover eyelid surgery, although if the surgery is necessary to restore full vision then be sure to check with them.