Related Articles Featuring Dr.
Antell
What
is a blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty refers to eyelid surgery and is
designed to remove the excess fat, along with skin
and muscle, from the upper and lower eyelids. It
is the second most common aesthetic procedure performed
by plastic surgeons.
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What
are the goals of eyelid plastic surgery?
A properly performed blepharoplasty procedure will
brighten the face and restore a more youthful appearance.
In some patients the procedure will improve vision
by removing the excessive skin of the upper eyelids
which can hang down and interfere with peripheral
vision.
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How
is eyelid surgery performed?
Eyelid surgery is usually performed using local
anesthesia and light intravenous sedation. It is
commonly done in a doctor s office, outpatient surgical
center or, in some cases, in a hospital. The procedure
is most often performed on an outpatient basis.
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Are
there scars from eyelid plastic surgery?
Scars are a result of any surgical procedure. The
incisions made to accomplish the goals of the procedure
are barely visible after several months as they
are placed within the normal creases and folds of
the upper and lower eyelids. In patients who only
need removal of fat from the lower eyelids, the
incision can be made on the inside of the eyelid,
and will therefore result in an invisible scar.
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Will
the fine wrinkles around my eyes go away after eyelid
surgery? What about my sagging eyebrows and dark
circles under my eyes?
The blepharoplasty procedure will not eradicate
the wrinkles around the eyes (crow s feet) nor will
it elevate droopy eyebrow. There are other procedures
designed for these purposes. Dark circles under
the eyes may improve a bit if this is related to
large bags , but most often the dark appearance
of the lower eyelid skin remains.
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Can
anyone have plastic surgery of the eyelids?
The best patients are those who are healthy, psychologically
stable and well motivated. Some medical conditions
may increase the risk of blepharoplasty surgery
such as thyroid disease, high blood pressure, and
patients who do not make sufficient tears to keep
their eyes well lubricated.
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What
are the risks involved with plastic surgery of the
eyelids?
Fortunately, when performed by a competent plastic
surgeon, complications are infrequent and minor.
All patients will experience some bruising and swelling
for a few days after the surgery. In addition, a
temporary problem with closure of the eyelids is
usually seen. Some may have temporary blurring of
their vision, usually due to the ointments applied
to the incisions post operatively. In rare instances,
the lower eyelid may be pulled down causing an ectropion.
If this does not resolve on its own, further surgery
may be necessary. The theoretical complications
of any surgical procedure, such as bleeding, infection,
wound disruption and heavy scarring are also possible,
but rare.
[Back to eyelids surgery list]
© Copyright American Society of Plastic Surgeons
If you would like to contact New York plastic surgeon
Dr. Darrick Antell, or if have any further questions
about eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or any of
our plastic surgery procedures, please use our contact
form.
Phone: (212) 988-4040
