Also known as blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery, an eyelid lift can improve the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids. When performed on the upper eyelids, this procedure can correct loose skin or puffiness. For the lower eyelids, an eyelid lift can treat droopiness or bags under the eye.
Candidates for eyelid lift surgery must be at least 18 years old. They should be non-smokers in good health and not suffer from any eye conditions. Everyone considering eyelid lift surgery must have realistic expectations about the procedure and its results.
To determine candidacy for eyelid surgery, you will meet with a plastic surgeon. He or she will examine your eyes and review your medical history. You must notify your plastic surgeon of all medications you are currently taking, as some may need to be stopped before surgery. If eyelid lift surgery is right for you, your plastic surgeon will discuss their intended surgical approach, explain the anesthetic to be used, and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
Before your eyelid lift procedure, you will likely undergo lab testing to ensure that you are in good health. If you smoke, you will need to stop several weeks before surgery, as smoking can interfere with the body’s natural healing process. You will be provided with specific instructions regarding the night before and the morning of your procedure, the type of anesthesia to be used and post-surgical instructions.
Eyelid lift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, incisions are made along the lines of the eyelids, through which unneeded fat, muscle and skin are removed. When surgery is complete, stitches are used to close the incisions. Eyelid lift surgery typically takes about two hours to perform.
For the first two weeks after eyelid lift surgery, your eyelids may feel tight and sore; painkillers are usually prescribed to minimize discomfort. During this time, you will need to refrain from using a computer, wearing contact lenses and other activities that can dry the eyes. Stitches will be removed within the first week after surgery. For the first few weeks after eyelid lift surgery, you will need to wear sunglasses when outside and avoid activities that boost blood flow to the eyes. Most patients return to work within two weeks after surgery, and results are typically noticeable within a few weeks.
All surgical procedures carry a risk of complications. Although they seldom occur, risks associated with eyelid lift surgery may include adverse reactions to the anesthesia, infection, blood clots, temporary vision impairment, ectropion (outward rolling of the eyelid), trouble closing your eyes, and dry eyes. To minimize the occurrence of complications, always choose a board-certified plastic surgeon for your procedure, and be sure to ask about the impressive before and after lower eyelid surgery results.
To find out if eyelid lift surgery is right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our plastic surgeon. Our offices are conveniently located throughout Queens, NY, Long Island, NY, New York City, and Bergen County, NJ. During your consultation, we will discuss your goals and show you impressive before and after under eye lift results.
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