A blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a major surgical procedure done to correct the visible signs of aging around the eyes. This surgery can improve the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both, by removing excess skin and fat. A blepharoplasty improves eyelid puffiness and eliminates sagging or excessive skin, resulting in a more rejuvenated, rested appearance. Often times a blepharoplasty may be done in conjunction with a facelift, brow lift or medial-cheek suspension. There are multiple reasons why people choose to undergo a blepharoplasty, including:
To enhance their appearance and self-confidence.
To better match their outward appearance with how they feel physically or emotionally.
To correct vision impaired by drooping eyelids.
To restore their original features and make them appear more rested.
To reduce excess hanging skin or bags beneath the eyes.
Surgical Candidates
Good physical and mental health.
Maintain realistic goals for surgical results
Procedure
Performed under anesthesia within a hospital or surgery center.
Patients may spend one night within the hospital or overnight center, or may even go home the day of surgery.
The procedure involves making incisions within the natural creases of the upper eyelid and removing excess skin and fat deposits. To improve the lower eyelids, incisions are made just underneath the lower lashes and sometimes inside the lower lid, as well. Then fat pads and excess skin can be removed. After allowing time for healing, the incisions are well hidden within the natural anatomy of the eyelid.
After Surgery
Oral pain medications are prescribed to control discomfort following surgery.
A special eye care packet is also available to aid in the recovery process, which includes saline solution, eye ointment, eye pads and an ice pack.
The following medications are also prescribed to assist in your recovery:
Antibiotics, ibuprofen and stool softener.
The doctor or her assistant will visit with the patient one to two days after surgery.
It is imperative to avoid any strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks, but may resume non-strenuous work with 2-3 weeks.
Dr. Burgess will follow your healing process closely throughout the weeks and months following surgery.
Traveling far distances is not recommended in the first month following surgery.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Elisa A. Burgess specializes in Lake Oswego face lift as well as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), liposuction, tummy tuck and breast augmentation. She serves the entire northwest Portland / Vancouver metro area and beyond.
