Eyelid Surgery

The delicate eyelid and periorbital region often reveal the earliest signs of aging. A youthful gaze communicates vitality and alertness. Over time, the skin around the eyes may lose elasticity, leading to sagging skin. Fine lines and wrinkles may appear due to repetitive movements. Additionally, issues such as hollowing, under-eye bags, or dark circles can emerge.

Many individuals considering blepharoplasty express concern that their eyes convey fatigue or anger, even when they don't feel that way. Addressing these concerns through blepharoplasty can restore a more vibrant and refreshed appearance.

A blepharoplasty is a surgery that can be performed on the upper and lower eyelids. The extend of the surgery depends on the patients’ needs, individual anatomy, and risk factors for dry eyes. When performed correctly, the patient is left with a refreshed, brighter look.

• Tired appearing eyes
• Sad appearing eyes
• Drooping eyelids
• Heavy upper eyelids
• Excess lower eyelid skin
• Obstructed vision from excess skin
• Lower eyelid bags
• Lower eyelid dark circles

An upper blepharoplasty is performed by creating an incision in the natural upper eyelid crease which allows for an almost imperceptible scar once healed. Depending on the patient’s anatomy, skin and sometimes muscle is removed. Fat can also be removed or repositioned. The ultimate goal is to create a brighter, more rested look. On its own, an upper eyelid lift is a relatively simple outpatient procedure often performed under local anesthesia. An upper blepharoplasty can be combined with other facial surgeries like a brow lift, facelift, or fat grafting.

A lower blepharoplasty can be performed through various approaches. The surgeon can either create an incision from the inside (transconjunctival) or the outside (transcutaneous) of the eyelid. The approach varies based on the needs of the patient. Fat is often repositioned to reduce bags, fill hollows and smooth out the transition from the lower eyelid to the cheek. Redundant skin can be re-draped and conservatively removed. This procedure is often more involved than an upper blepharoplasty and is typically done under general anesthesia. A lower blepharoplasty can also be combined with other facial surgeries like an upper blepharoplasty, facelift, or fat grafting.

• Recovery varies on the type of blepharoplasty performed. Patients who undergo an upper blepharoplasty have mild swelling and bruising that improves after 1 week. Patients who undergo a lower blepharoplasty may have swelling that takes several weeks to resolve.
• Patients are instructed to keep their head of bed elevated for 1 week after surgery.
• Patients are instructed to apply intermittent icing to the eyelids for 1 week after surgery. Eventually, you may be instructed to apply warm compress to the eyelids.
• You will be prescribed ointment to apply post operatively.
• External sutures are often removed between 5-7 days post operatively.
• No exercise or heavy lifting x 3 weeks
• No contact lenses x 3 weeks

Choosing the right surgeon for your rhinoplasty is critical. Dr. Corliss Best is dual-trained in both Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and is uniquely qualified to address cosmetic eyelid concerns.