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Eyelid Surgery Before and After
What is Eyelid Surgery Used to Correct?
Eyelid surgery can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on your specific concerns and aesthetic goals. This versatile procedure effectively addresses multiple signs of aging around the eyes, including:
- Tightening loose, wrinkled skin
- Reducing fat deposits (puffiness or under-eye bags)
- Smoothing out crow’s feet at the outer corners of the eyes
- Improving peripheral vision that is obstructed by drooping upper eyelids
Am I a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Blepharoplasty candidates are usually 40 to 60 years old. However, factors such as genetics can also make this procedure a great option for younger and older patients.
Sometimes, people think they need upper eyelid surgery when their brow line is the actual culprit. Dr. Gannon or Dr. Hargrave will determine whether eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or a combination of both techniques will restore a refreshed look.
Your doctor may also recommend non-surgical options to rejuvenate this area. For example, injections of BOTOX® Cosmetic or dermal fillers can soften wrinkles or fill in sunken tear troughs beneath the eyes.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
Dr. Gannon and Dr. Hargrave usually perform eyelid surgery as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia and calming relaxants. In most cases, the surgery takes only about an hour. You may feel a little pressure during the operation, but for the most part, you will be quite relaxed and comfortable.
Your trusted eyelid surgeon will then place the incisions along the natural creases of the upper eyelids, along the lower lash lines, or within the lower eyelids, depending on the desired improvements. Through these incisions, Dr. Gannon or Dr. Hargrave will lift the skin, eliminate underlying fat deposits, and tighten the muscle and skin to form new, firmer contours.
If you are bothered by puffy under-eye bags, your surgeon may perform transconjunctival eyelid surgery. This technique reduces fat deposits using small incisions placed inside the lower eyelids. Lower eyelid surgery is often combined with laser resurfacing to reduce fine lines and soften excess pigmentation.
Blepharoplasty Recovery
You’ll visit your plastic surgeon several times during the recuperation period to ensure you are healing as expected and address any concerns you might have. Everyone heals at their own rate, but in general, your recovery process should proceed as follows:
- First few days—After eyelid surgery, you may have soothing ointment on your eyelids and a dressing over your eyes. You might experience some discomfort, but it is usually not long-lasting and can be controlled with prescription medication.
- 5-7 days – Your stitches will be taken out at this time. You will also begin to notice an improvement in how your eyes look.
- 1-2 weeks – It’s normal to have bruising on the eyelids and around the eyes for the first week or two.
- Several weeks – The improvements from your eyelid surgery will become more and more evident over the next weeks and months as any swelling gradually fades.
Optimizing Your Recovery
Before you go home after surgery, you will receive instructions for your recovery. Be sure to follow them closely to ensure optimum healing. Helpful recommendations include:
- Prop a pillow behind your head to keep it upright and help reduce swelling.
- Place ice packs over your eyes as directed by your surgeon.
- Use eye drops to soothe and moisten your eyelids.
- Protect your eyes from bright light and direct sun.
Eyelid Surgery Benefits
- Creates a more youthful, alert appearance
- Improves vision obstructed by drooping eyelids
- Enhances overall facial harmony
- Boosts self-confidence
- Provides long-lasting results
- Minimal scarring with proper technique
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?
The price of eyelid surgery depends on many factors, including whether you are having the upper or lower eyelids done or both, the complexity of the procedure, and whether your eyelid surgery is combined with other treatments. Most patients can qualify for financing if desired. For the most positive surgical outcome, we recommend considering your surgeon’s credentials above the cost.
Blepharoplasty FAQs
Will insurance cover the cost of my eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is typically considered elective cosmetic surgery and is therefore not covered by most health plans. However, there is a chance it might be covered if it’s regarded as a benefit to your vision. Discuss this with your plastic surgeon and your health insurance provider.
Will I be able to wear contact lenses after eyelid surgery?
While healing from blepharoplasty, you won’t be able to wear contact lenses for a couple of weeks or possibly longer. When you can wear them, they may feel uncomfortable until your eyelids complete the healing process.
Will I have visible scars?
In most cases, the scars from eyelid surgery are so carefully placed that they are virtually undetectable. Also, the scars will likely fade as time passes, and you will hardly notice them. What you will see is your refreshed, brighter, younger-looking eyes.
How long do eyelid surgery results last?
The effects of eyelid surgery are typically long-lasting, often providing benefits for 10-15 years or more. While the natural aging process will continue, most patients find that their eyes maintain a more youthful appearance than if they had never had the procedure.
Eyelid Rejuvenation At Last
If you’re considering eyelid surgery in Albany, New York, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gannon or Dr. Hargrave to discuss your goals and learn about your treatment options. During your personalized consultation, they will evaluate your unique facial anatomy, discuss your aesthetic concerns, and create a treatment plan to help you achieve a smoother, youthful look!
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