Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) - Radiant Rejuvenation - Seattle
What is Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?
Blepharoplasty (cosmetic eyelid surgery) is a surgical procedure to reduce sagging excess eyelid skin and bagginess from both the upper and lower eyelids. Drooping excess skin in the upper eyelids can be associated with loss of peripheral vision and contribute to chronic fatigue. In the lower lids (and the inside of the upper eyelids), large bulging is often caused by fatty deposits under the eyelid muscles. By removal of excess eyelid skin and its attached muscle, the surgeon can reduce some of the fat contributing to the bulge, making an improved contour with less appearance of "circles" under your eyes. Blepharoplasty (cosmetic eyelid surgery) is effective in improving the hooding effect and excess skin associated with the aging appearance, but does not completely remove the very fine wrinkles on the surface. The intended results are a more youthful and rested appearance of the eyelid area, with improved peripheral vision, particularly in the upper and outer views.
In some cases, the doctor will suggest that an eyebrow or forehead lifting procedure be performed, as the gradual sagging of these areas will contribute to the hooding appearance. It is not practical for cosmetic eyelid surgery to correct skin excesses from those areas.
The procedures are performed under local, local-sedation, or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis in outpatient surgicenters or hospitals. Most commonly, local only, or amnesia producing sedation are selected. The small incisions to remove the excess skin may be made by scalpel, laser, or radio-frequency knives, and are placed along the natural creases in the upper and lower eyelids. In some cases, removal of excess fat can be approached from the inside aspect of the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach), with either chemical peel or resurfacing laser used on the outer skin to tighten the very fine wrinkles. This approach is not appropriate in all cases, particularly for individuals with larger excess of muscle causing bulges when smiling, or in those with larger amounts of excess skin.
Small sutures are placed along the skin incision which are usually removed in the first 2-5 days, or made of a self-absorbing material. Recuperation is usually within one week, with mild bruising and swelling which mostly resolves during that time. Discomfort is usually minimal.
Blepharoplasty (cosmetic eyelid surgery) can be used to improve or add an upper eyelid crease to the Asian eyelid; it will not erase evidence of one’s racial or ethnic heritage. Blepharoplasty (cosmetic eyelid surgery) may improve, but will not remove "crow’s feet" or the fine surface wrinkles, completely eliminate dark circles under the eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows.
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is customized for every patient, depending on his or her particular needs. It can be performed alone involving upper, lower or both eyelid regions, or in conjunction with other surgical procedures of the eye, face, brow, or nose. Eyelid surgery cannot stop the process of aging, but can diminish the tired look of loose skin and bagginess in the eyelid region.
Alternatives to Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
Improvement of skin laxness, fatty deposits and some skin wrinkles may be accomplished by laser resurfacing only, chemical peeling, or brow or forehead lifting. As this is a procedure which is optional for you, you may choose no surgical treatment. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. In this type of surgery, you should weigh the potential gain against the possibility of risk. Minor or unexpected complications may occur which have a relatively small impact on the final results. Major complications are remotely possible, and are considered rare in this type of surgery.