Blepharoplasty

Your eyes are the focal point of your face and reflect a lot about who you are. If you have bags and excess skin under your eyes that make you look tired and worn, it gives a false impression of how you feel. Today, however, there is a surgical technique designed specifically for the removal of that "tired" look that can change not only your physical appearance but your emotional perspective. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, removes excess folds of skin and pouches of fat that develop in the upper and lower eyelid area.

According to Dr. Joel Alexander of the Alexander Ear, Nose & Throat Center in Atlanta, blepharoplasty can be performed in conjunction with other surgical procedures, such as a facelift or browlift, to attain a more "complete" facial appearance. Initially, the patient should consult with an experienced surgeon, such as Dr. Alexander, who is board-certified in ear, nose and throat and facial plastic surgery. The consultation is the most important meeting before the actual surgery takes place. The patient should establish a common goal with his or her surgeon and make sure there are no unrealistic expectations.

In the actual procedure, small incisions are made, following the natural contour lines of the upper and lower eyelids, to provide access for the removal of fat and excess skin. Once removed, the incisions are closed with tiny sutures. Depending upon the extent of the surgery, the entire procedure can take anywhere from one to two hours. It is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation (i.e., twilight anesthesia).

Afterward, there will be slight swelling and discoloration of the area; however, this is expected, as the skin surrounding the eye is extremely thin. If there is some minor pain and discomfort, it can easily be controlled with medication.

Swelling and discoloration are usually gone within three to five days and any hairline scars fade over a short period of time, leaving the incisions virtually invisible. Patients are also advised not to participate in any strenuous activity and should refrain from bending over for at least two weeks after surgery. In addition, it may also be helpful to wear dark sunglasses to protect your eyes from sun and wind irritation. Following these simple guidelines is essential to a quick and simple recovery period.

The result is firmer, smoother skin above and below the eyelid area. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is dramatically improved. Blepharoplasty assists patients in achieving a natural, youthful and rested look. There is no need to search for the perfect gel or cream that attempts to make empty promises of erasing the effects of sun, smoking, drinking, and aging. Blepharoplasty is a safe, effective, and proven method that not only leaves you better looking, but feeling better about yourself.