West Orange
(973) 324-9455
The eyes are the windows to the soul – so it comes as no surprise that some women crave a youthful, attractive, and alluring pair of eyes. With its ability to give eyes a beautiful and bright-eyed appearance, eyelid surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed today.
Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is a simple, effective way to reduce the effects of aging around the eyes, eliminate bags, and correct droopy eyelids. This safe and effective cosmetic procedure helps patients feel more confident in the fresh-faced versions of themselves. From consultation to recovery, Personal Plastic Surgery outlines what patients can expect before, during, and after eyelid plastic surgery.
Common Reasons for Eyelid Surgery
A natural part of aging includes the buildup of fat deposits and tissue around the eyes. Sometimes this imparts a sleepy, angry, or even unhealthy look. Aside from appearance issues, patients experiencing a severe tissue buildup may develop drooping eyelids that block or impair vision, which can cause some discomfort among patients.
Luckily, corrective eyelid surgery offers patients relief from the uncomfortable vision-blocking tissue, as well as a refreshed and younger-looking appearance. Depending on a patient’s specific needs, a board-certified plastic surgeon may also recommend a brow lift or facelift to accompany the eyelid surgery.
Preparing for Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery candidates will meet first with a plastic surgeon to discuss any concerns and possible surgical outcomes. Patients will discuss medical history, expectations, needs, and goals. Next, qualifying patients will undergo a physical examination and vision examination to confirm candidacy. The plastic surgeon will then photograph the eyelids to help plan the surgery.
Several weeks before eyelid surgery, patients should stop smoking to encourage a speedy healing process. When it comes to the day of the surgery, patients should be prepared to have a family or friend drive them home. The plastic surgeon will then advise patients on any other preparations necessary to make the procedure run as smoothly as possible.
Eyelid Surgery – The Procedure
Depending on the location of fat pockets, board-certified plastic surgeons will perform their recommended upper, lower, or a combined procedure. A typical eyelid procedure will start with a numbing medication to help patients relax. Next, the plastic surgeon will make incisions along the eyelids (usually in the creases of upper lids or just below lashes on lower lids). Excess fat and tissue are removed through these incisions and then stitched closed with fine sutures.
Eyelid surgery typically lasts between 45 minutes to a few hours, depending on the scope of the procedure. If no excess skin requires removal, patients should not have scarring. After three or four days, the plastic surgeon will remove the stitches so the patient can return to work as soon as ten days post-surgery.
The Recovery Process for Eyelid Surgery
Patients can follow helpful advice to ensure the post-surgical recovery runs without complications. First, keep the skin protected and at the proper moisture levels by using ointment treatment on the incision. Use ice packs or prescribed medications to reduce swelling and bruising. Plastic surgeons also recommend that patients keep their heads elevated when sleeping as the improved drainage of fluid will speed up recovery. Whether performed on the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or both, ocular exercises will help keep the patients’ eyes lubricated after eyelid surgery.
Discover if Eyelid Surgery is Right for You
Dr. Sanjay Lalla is proud to have performed hundreds of blepharoplasty procedures on patients living in northern New Jersey. His compassionate and experienced team is committed to helping patients look and feel their best from our initial consultation through recovery. Personal Plastic Surgery invites patients in the nearby area to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Millburn or West Orange.
Dial (973) 324-9455 today to discover if you are an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery!
