Plastic Surgery

Eyelid Surgery/ Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is the most commonly performed facial plastic surgical procedure in the United States (According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons – ASAPS).

Droopy upper eyelid skin and puffy bags under the eyes are often the first signs of aging. With time, the delicate eyelid tissues can develop wrinkles and bags, contributing to a worn and tired look. Droopy upper eyelids are the result of redundant eyelid skin. Mascara may become increasingly more difficult to apply as excess upper eyelid skin starts to rest on the eyelashes. In the lower eyelids, bags develop with age due to movement of fat beneath the eyes causing shadows and dark circles, thus giving the appearance of tiredness. Surgery to correct saggy or baggy eyelids (blepharoplasty) removes excess skin from the upper eyelids and fat from the lower eyelids. By removing small amounts of excess skin and fat one can transform the eyelid region to a more youthful and refreshed look.

Understanding The Surgery
In upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Sonne first marks the individual lines and creases of the lids in order to produce the finest scars along these natural skin folds. These incisions are camouflaged in the crease of the eyelid and are only visible when the eye is closed. The incision is made, and excess fat, muscle, and loose skin are removed. Fine sutures are used to close the incisions, thereby minimizing the visibility of any scar. The procedure lasts roughly an hour and is performed with sedation anesthesia at an accredited out-patient surgical facility or under local anesthesia in our office. Not infrequently eyelid surgery is combined with other procedures, such as a browlift or facelift for a more complete facial rejuvenation. However eyelid surgery in and of itself makes a tremendous improvement in ones appearance and is often performed as a stand alone procedure.

In lower eyelid surgery, eyelid puffiness caused primarily by excess fat may be corrected by a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. The incision is made inside the lower eyelid, and excess fatty material is removed. When sutures are used to close this kind of incision, they are invisible to the eye as they are self-dissolving and leave no visible scar. Under normal conditions, a lower lid blepharoplasty takes about an hour.

What To Expect After The Surgery
Recovery is quick and most patients are presentable one week after surgery, however many patients are up and about within the first few days. Although there is minimal discomfort after eyelid surgery, bruising and swelling are common. The application of cold compresses can help with postoperative discomfort and should be applied the first few days to minimize bruising and swelling. For a week following upper lid blepharoplasty (typically there are no outer incisions on the lower eyelid), you may need to clean the incision lines. Eyedrops also may be recommended. Permanent stitches will be removed in three to five days after surgery. Self-absorbing stitches will dissolve on their own.