What is a Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty refers to any surgery which is used to correct a cosmetic deformity of the area around the eye. It may be used to remove excess skin of the upper eyelid which can result in vision improvement or simply remove the bags around the lower eye. Blepharoplasty can be performed on either the upper or lower eyelids or both at the same time and either the left or the right side or both at the same time.

Indications for upper eyelid blepharoplasty are several. Excess upper eyelid skin can produce a cosmetic deformity or can sometimes interfere with vision. To determine if excess upper eyelid skin interferes with vision, a test is done which measures a person’s ability to see objects in their peripheral vision in a natural position and with the excess skin taped out of the way. Excess upper eyelid skin can also be causing a cosmetic problem and for women this often leaves them without a platform to put makeup on. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty involves removing the excess skin of the upper eyelid, possibly with some muscle and closing the incision in a natural skin crease. Once healed, the incision is imperceptible. During the procedure, fat may be removed from the middle part of the eyelid to produce a less full look. Care must be taken as sometimes a low brow may be causing excess upper eyelid skin and the correct procedure to fix excess upper eyelid skin is actually putting the brow back into its correct position.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is usually cosmetic procedure. It involves removing the fat from the around the lower portion of the ye which generally causes bulges around the eyes as we age. The procedure can be done from inside of the eyelid or possibly through a small incision in the skin just below the eyelash line. In either case, once the incision heals, it too is imperceptible.

There are risks associated with blepharoplasty procedures and it is always important to seek a trained and experienced surgeon for any surgery. An experienced surgeon can sit and talk with you about the risks and benefits of the procedure. It is important to share with your surgeon all of your medical problems and any medications that you may be taking. This includes herbal supplements and over the counter medications as some of these can interfere with blood clotting and increase the risks associated with the procedure. The surgeon may ask that you cease using some medications for a time period before and after surgery to ensure the best possible outcome.

Blepharoplasty surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. Recovery times vary though most people can return to normal, non-strenuous activities within a week. Again, an experienced surgeon can better inform you as to the expected outcomes and return to normal activity schedule.

If you are contemplating blepharoplasty surgery, be sure to research the procedure and find a qualified and experienced surgeon. Additional research will help you to be a well informed and thoughtful patient.