Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery (called blepharoplasty) involves a variety of surgical procedures to treat excess skin and fat of the upper and the lower eyelids.  It can thus correct the fat bags of the lower eyelids and the excess skin of drooping upper lids to improve facial appearance.  It does not reduce the crow’s feet wrinkles at the side of the eye or raise the eyebrow—other procedures and Botox can treat these concerns.

Blepharoplasty works equally well for both men and women.  Surgery is more risky in people with thyroid disease, chronic dry eyes, high blood pressure and glaucoma.  All blood thinners must be stopped well before surgery and smoking cessation will reduce the risks of healing problems and infection.

Serious complications such as chronic dry eyes, incomplete closure of the lids, and visual impairment are quite rare.  Temporary dry eyes, especially if both the upper and lower eyelids are done, can occur.  Scarring is usually excellent.

Surgery is normally done in the operating room with some sedation but not complete anesthesia.  Surgery is done as an outpatient.  For the upper eyelids, an incision is made hidden in the eyelid crease and excess skin muscle and fat are removed as needed.  For the lower eyelid, an incision is made a millimeter or two below the eyelash line.   Excess skin is either removed or repositioned and excess muscle is removed and re-draped.  The fine wrinkles on the lids are not changed.  After surgery, ice is applied to the lids to minimize swelling and bruising.   The more you use the ice (ideally 2 or 3 days) the less the swelling and bruising so the earlier you can return to work.  Normally some swelling is present for a week or two.  Surgery is not normally very painful.  Results are usually quite pleasing. 

If you have a question or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Topol give our office a call or send us an e-mail.