Eyelid Surgery
Upper Eyelids – In a surgical procedure known as blepharoplasty, incisions are made in the natural fold of the eyelids to remove excess skin, muscle or fat. These incisions are then closed with very fine sutures so that, after healing, the surgical sites become virtually unnoticeable. This procedure relieves eyelid heaviness and unnecessary folds, leaving a smooth platform for makeup and a more youthful, energetic appearance. more details…
Lower Eyelids – Blepharoplasty is also used to correct bulges or puffiness associated with the lower eyelids. Here the incisions are made directly below the eyelashes to remove excess skin. If only fat and no skin needs to be removed, the incisions can be made just behind the lower eyelids in a procedure known as transconjunctival blepharoplasty. more details…
BLEPHAROPLASTY (For Functional and Cosmetic)
Having eyelid surgery to remove excess skin and fat is referred to as a “Blepharoplasty”. Motivation for this type of procedure may be either functional or cosmetic.
FUNCTIONAL BLEPHAROPLASTY
As one ages, the upper and lower lid tissues begin to relax. These nonspecific changes may be accelerated by sun exposure, allergies or recurrent swelling and consist of stretching or senile elastosis of the skin. In some individuals, this process may be hereditary. The result is an excess of eyelid tissue referred to as “dermatochalasis”. Stretching and relaxation of the orbital septum will allow prolapse of the orbital fat into the eyelids. As a result, a “fullness” to the lid develops which increases over time. This excess lid tissue creates a tired look, may cause the patient to look older than they actually are, and may cause a heavy feeling or weight on the lid. With time, the excess lid tissues in the upper lid may hang over the lid margin and cause a visual field restriction. Patients may describe it as “something sitting there”, “like wearing a baseball cap”, or “like a shadow at the side”. In the lower lid, the excess skin and fat do not cause as much of a problem but can occasionally affect the bifocal portion of the glasses. Patients with excess skin in the upper lids causing a visual field restriction or in the lower lid affecting the bifocal segment have a functional defect that can be alleviated by surgical removal of the skin, and fat, leading to an improved and more comfortable field of view.
COSMETIC BLEPHAROPLASTY
Your eyes are often the first thing people notice about your face and are an important aspect of facial attractiveness. Unfortunately, with age, the upper and lower eyelids become “droopy” or “baggy” in appearance. Aesthetically, such conditions may detract from the overall attractiveness of ones eyes and cause a “tired” or “older” appearance. This situation bothers some individuals more than others (female > male) and at different ages. Removal of the excess skin and fat can restore a younger, more rested appearance.
