Gravity takes its toll as we age. Unfortunately, the skin of our brows and eyelids are particularly susceptible to drooping over time, and the result can leave you looking aged and tired, even interfering with your vision. If you have sagging upper or lower eyelids, you may feel self-conscious about drooping skin and looking fatigued. Fortunately, a blepharoplasty can help to address skin laxity, drooping fat pads, and excess skin around the eyelids to leave your eyes looking fresh and revitalized. This blog describes what you can expect when you decide to undergo blepharoplasty.
What will happen during my blepharoplasty?
You will arrive for your blepharoplasty at our state-of-the-art surgical center, where you will be made comfortable to prepare for your procedure. Our highly-skilled surgical staff will put you at ease and make sure you are ready. You will meet with your surgeon prior to the procedure to go over aftercare instructions and answer any last-minute questions you may have.
Most blepharoplasty procedures are completed using local anesthesia and some form of sedation to keep you comfortable and minimize any anxiety. You can expect your surgery to take between 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the shape of your eyelids and whether you are having both upper and lower blepharoplasties. Once your skin is completely numb, your surgeon will create small, delicate incisions in the crease of your eyelid (for an upper blepharoplasty) or along the ridge of your eyelid (lower blepharoplasty). The position of your incision is chosen to minimize visibility of scars. In fact, it is impossible to tell in most of our patients that they have had any surgery at all once healing has occurred.
After the incisions have been made, your surgeon will carefully excise extra fat and skin and pull the incision closed with the right amount of tension, creating a perfectly natural, rejuvenated look. The incision will be closed with sutures and bandages may be applied at this time.
What is recovery from blepharoplasty like?
You will be able to go home on the same day as your surgery. You will need someone to drive you and stay with you for a bit after you get home. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions, and it is important to follow these recommendations to support healing and maximize your results.
Most patients do not experience much discomfort after the procedure, but cold compresses can help reduce swelling for the first day or two. You will be instructed to clean the incision sites and apply an ointment for the first several days while they heal. When you come back for your follow-up appointment, roughly one week after your procedure, your surgeon will remove your stitches. And, you should be able to resume normal daily activities by this time. You can expect that any swelling will resolve within two weeks of surgery, and your final results will be visible.
When you are ready for eyelid rejuvenation that will create a brighter, younger-looking you, call 860.676.2473 to schedule your consult and find out if a blepharoplasty is right for you.