What is Blepharoplasty ?
Every year many men and women chose the have corrective eyelid surgery or BLEPHAROPLASTY. Droopy lids cannot only be uncosmetic but also interfere with vision. With this complaint there is no true muscle detachment but only skin and fat excess. Blepharopasty corrects these cosmetic problems through removing puffiness and bags under the eyes. This procedure can not remove dark circles, fine lines or wrinkles , nor can it correct sagging of eyebrows which can add to the droopy appearance.
What is Ptosis ?
Patients also can suffer from true mechanical drooping as a result of a muscle detachment. This condition is called PTOSIS . In this corrective surgery , the detached muscle is reattached to its origin and the eyelid function resumes.
What is involved with the surgery
The doctor will mark the natural lines and creases in order to keep scars as invisible as possible. The incision is made with an instrument which both cuts and seals blood vessels as it goes. This way, there is minimal bleeding. The tissue, fat and excess skin are removed and the eyelids are then sewn together.
Recovery and Outcomes
There are dissolvable sutures that stay in place for 8-10 days. It is normal for the eyelids to have bruising and swelling for 1- 2 weeks. This varies from patient to patient as differences in skin types, patient medication and age all play a role in recovery. Ice packs in the first 24 hours help minimize swelling. Antibiotic ointment is used post-operatively to minimize the risk of infection.
Your doctor will discuss your individual case with you. It is important to understand the risks , complications and both agree on the expected outcome.