What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. Dr. Keamy does this by tightening muscles and tissue or removing excess fat and skin. This procedure offers a younger, more refreshed look that reflects across the whole face.
To learn more about the blepharoplasty procedure you can view our Blepharoplasty overview informational video.
Common Causes Of Droopy Eyelids
The area around the eyes is often one of the first to show signs of damage, as the skin of the eyelid is thinner than the rest of the face. Eyelids that droop or bulge, also known as ptosis, can cause people to appear much older or more fatigued than they actually are. The following are common causes of droopy eyelids.
- Aging
- Sun damage
- Smoking
- Stretching
- Obesity
What Are The Benefits of Upper Lid Blepharoplasty?
Eyelid rejuvenation can achieve several advantageous results. This is because the eyes are a central part of the face and, because they are involved in the expression, have a significant impact on appearance. This goes beyond looking younger. When the eyes age and start to look heavy and saggy, the face may generally look tired or even angry or unfriendly. The overall appearance of the face influences first impressions. Therefore, aging eyes that look angry may contribute to a decline in enjoyable social or professional interactions. To correct hooded upper eyelids is only partially about cosmetic improvement. Doing so can have an immensely positive impact on how a person is perceived.
Candidates For Blepharoplasty
The best candidates for the Blepharoplasty procedure are men or women who are in good overall health and who do not smoke or have any serious eye conditions. If you have loose, sagging skin or puffy bags around your eyes, this procedure can help reduce these unwanted effects and leave the eyes looking young and fresh.
It is important for patients to have realistic expectations before undergoing surgery in order to be satisfied with their results. While this procedure can enhance your appearance and may improve self-confidence as a result, it cannot alter your entire appearance or change the structure of your face.
Blepharoplasty Procedure
The Blepharoplasty procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia for nervous patients. Patients may choose to have this procedure on their upper, lower or both parts of the eyelids. Depending on these choices, the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours.
If the patient chooses an upper eyelid procedure an incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid. After making the incision, Dr. Keamy may reposition fat deposits, tighten muscles and tissue or remove excess skin in order to leave the eye looking younger and refreshed.
During the lower eyelid procedure, the incision is just below the lash line in order to remove excess skin. After the procedure is complete, Dr, Keamy will close the incisions with sutures and usually wrap the area in gauze to allow it to heal.
What Results Can Eyelid Surgery Achieve?
Blepharoplasty can correct several age-related problems that occur on the upper eyelids. Common improvements include:
- Enhanced eye shape
- Rested, youthful appearance
- A more friendly-looking face
- Improved vision for people whose upper eyelids have fallen over their eyelashes
- Reduced strain in forehead muscles caused by constantly lifting the eyebrows
Before & After Blepharoplasty
How Long Do The Results Of Blepharoplasty Last?
The fat or skin that is removed during an upper blepharoplasty is permanently eliminated. Most people who have this procedure never need to repeat it. However, the tissue around the eyes will continue to age, and, over time, slight sagging may occur.
Is Eyelid Surgery Painful?
Blepharoplasty is not a painful procedure. Patients receive adequate anesthetic and sedation as needed to prevent pain signals from the operative area. After the anesthesia wears off, patients may rely on prescription pain medication for comfort. This may last only a few days before over-the-counter pain relief is sufficient. Patients may also apply cold compresses to the eye area a few times a day. This not only soothes discomfort but also helps to reduce bruising and swelling.
Blepharoplasty Recovery
When it comes to recovering from Blepharoplasty in Salem, MA, Dr. Keamy may recommend applying lubricating ointment and cold compresses to aid the healing process and minimize side effects such as swelling, bruising irritation, or dry eyes. The eyes may be wrapped in gauze after the procedure as well.
Patients can usually return to work within a week but should avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least two weeks. Swelling and other side effects usually subside within two weeks after surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes are surgery.
Combining Procedures With Eyelid Surgery
Patients who visit our practice for Blepharoplasty in Salem, MA often inquire about combining their surgery with other procedures. Eyelid surgeries are commonly paired with browlifts. Browlifts can revitalize drooping or lined foreheads, helping you to look less angry, sad, or tired. Using either a traditional or minimally invasive, endoscopic, method, the muscles above the eyes are altered to smooth lines and raise the eyebrows for a more youthful appearance.
Is Blepharoplasty Safe?
Blepharoplasty is one of the leading plastic surgery procedures performed today. It is generally considered safe and effective. Patients interested in rejuvenating their eyes should consult with a board-certified surgeon who has demonstrated proven results within their practice. Dr. Keamy has completed extensive training in ophthalmology and cosmetic procedures. She performs blepharoplasty with great care to avoid complications.
One of the most significant concerns about blepharoplasty is the risk of removing too much tissue. In upper blepharoplasty, this can result in the inability to fully close the eyes. In lower blepharoplasty, it could result in the same problem or possibly in the eyelid pulling-away from the eyeball.
What Are The Risks Of Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery is one of the safest procedures performed today. During the consultation for surgery, Dr. Keamy discusses potential risks, such as infection or poor wound healing. Most risks can be well managed by meticulous surgical technique and good aftercare at home. One of the unique risks of eyelid surgery is bleeding. Though this rarely occurs, bleeding can increase intraocular pressure, which could have serious effects on vision due to compression of the optic nerve. If bleeding occurs after eyelid surgery, patients should contact our office immediately or go to their nearest emergency room.
Schedule A Consultation
For more information on Eyelid Surgery or other services offered, please contact Dr. Keamy at 508.836.8733 today.
