Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can rejuvenate your appearance by removing excess skin and fat from the eyelids. This procedure enhances both aesthetics and vision for those with drooping eyelids. Discover the benefits, process, and recovery of eyelid surgery for a refreshed look.
What Is Eye Lid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the eyelids.1 It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The primary purpose of eyelid surgery is to remove excess skin, muscle, and fat from the eyelids, which can cause a variety of problems, including drooping eyelids, bags under the eyes, and a tired or aged appearance.
Eyelid surgery can also be performed to correct functional problems, such as impaired vision caused by drooping eyelids. In some cases, eyelid surgery may be necessary to treat medical conditions, such as ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid) or entropion (inward turning of the eyelid).2
Eyelid surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that individuals can go home the same day as the procedure. The surgery usually takes about one to two hours to complete, and it is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the eyes.
Eye Lid Surgery: What to Expect
Before undergoing eyelid surgery, individuals will typically have a consultation with a surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. The surgeon will assess the individual’s eyelids and determine the best surgical approach. They will also provide instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, such as avoiding certain medications and activities.
On the day of the surgery, individuals will arrive at the surgical facility and be given local anesthesia. The surgeon will then make incisions in the natural creases of the eyelids and remove excess skin, muscle, and fat. The incisions will be closed with sutures, and a bandage will be applied to the eyes.
After the surgery, individuals may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. They will be given pain medication to manage their discomfort, and they will need to follow their surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care. This may include avoiding strenuous activity, wearing sunglasses, and using cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Eye Lid Surgery: Recovery
The recovery from eyelid surgery typically takes a few weeks. During this time, individuals will need to attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and ensure that the healing process is proceeding as expected. The sutures will be removed after a few days, and the swelling and bruising will gradually subside.
Most individuals are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks of surgery. However, it is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. The final results of eyelid surgery can be seen after several months, once the swelling has completely resolved.
Learn More About Eyelid Surgery
For more information about eyelid surgery, individuals can consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They can also find helpful resources online from reputable sources, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).