What happens during blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery (also known as “blepharoplasty”) can be done on the lower lids, the upper lids, or both. During the procedure, fat and excess skin are removed around the eyes – this excess tissue can make your eyes look puffy and can give you those unsightly bags under the eyes. It can also help to tighten skin, which will reduce wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes.
Blepharoplasty is performed for medical reasons, too – too much tissue around the eyes can cause functional problems with eyelids, and it can also reduce your field of vision.
The surgery usually takes less than 2 hours. You will be given a local anesthetic and also a sedative to relax you. The surgeon will remove the excess fat and skin, tighten what remains, and close the incision with fine sutures.
After the procedure, your doctor will have specific instructions for you to follow for a safe recovery. There will be some bruising and swelling, but ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication can help. You should avoid smoking (in fact, you’ll need to quit at least a month before your blepharoplasty). You should avoid rubbing your eyes, and avoid strenuous activity for 1 to 2 weeks. You should plan on staying home from work for at least a week. When you do go outside, you should wear dark sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind. You can have eyelid surgery along with another procedure, such as a facelift or a brow lift – you and your doctor can decide which combination of procedures would be right for you.
“Blepharoplasty” is a fancy word to describe a little change that can make a big difference. Having tired and puffy eyes can add years to your face, but eyelid surgery can help. Contact Amara Medical Aesthetics in Bellevue, Washington, for a blepharoplasty consultation. Call (425) 455-2131 today!
