Eyes

The eyelids are frequently the first to show the signs of aging, resulting in a tired, sad appearance. This is very apparent because the eyes are the first thing that we notice in a person's face. Eyelid surgery is performed on men and women of all ages who want to minimize the effects of aging. You’re a candidate for eyelid surgery if you have the following conditions:

UPPER EYELIDS

• Excess skin that covers the natural fold of the upper eyelids.
• Loose skin in the upper eyelid area. 
• Puffiness in upper eyelids that creates a tired look.

LOWER EYELIDS

• Puffy bags under the lower eyelids.
  

           

Excess skin: There may be excess skin of the upper and/or lower eyelids. The excess skin of the upper lids may also be caused by sagging of the forehead and eyebrows. A brow lift should always be considered when evaluating the upper eyelids (see section on eyebrow lift and forehead lift).

Excess fat: There may also be excess fat in the eyelids which causes "baggy" eye lids. This is frequently present in both the upper and lower eyelids. Initially the bags are noticeable only on awakening in the morning. As the problem becomes more severe, this puffy look persists throughout the day. This tendency is inherited and may appear very early in life (even in the teens and ’20s) before the aging process becomes obvious.

With eyelid surgery, the removal of excess skin and fat pads will give a rested, youthful appearance, but does very little to change the fine lines and the crow’s feet. If the skin is pulled tightly in attempt to eliminate these fine lines, the lower lid will be pulled down and a deformity created. The normal almond shape of the eyes may be distorted. We use other techniques, such as the chemical peel, Botox/Dysport or laser resurfacing, to improve or remove these fine lines.

           

EYELID LIFT (Blepharoplasty)

Procedure

In the upper eyelids, Dr. Ward makes the incision in the fold of the lid (see diagram above). In the lower eyelid, Dr. Ward makes the incision in a natural crease immediately below the eyelashes. This technique allows the patient to avoid the temporary inconvenience caused by the healing of a skin incision. Some bruising and swelling occurs in the upper and lower eyelids and may continue for seven days. No bandages are required. After one week, our surgery patients can use makeup to camouflage any residual bruising. Strenuous activities are restricted for a short time after surgery. The patient is not able to wear contact lenses for two or three days after the operation. If your job does not involve strenuous labor, you may return to work with sunglasses in one or two days.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where are the incisions made for the upper and lower eyelid surgery?

Dr. Ward begins the incision within the natural crease of the eyelid. Through this incision the excess skin is removed. The incision line follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid and is camouflaged when healed. Dr. Ward places the lower eyelid incision just below the lower eyelashes. Through this incision the fat "bags" and excess skin is removed.

How will I look and feel after surgery?

In the earliest stage of healing it is important to rest and to keep your head elevated. Although everyone heals differently, you can expect some swelling and bruising around the eyelids and they usually fade after 7-10 days. After your first postoperative visit in one week you may use make-up to conceal any discoloration.

EYELID RECOVERY

Recovery time varies with individuals but you can expect to have some bruising and swelling for the first week to ten days. Most patients return to work after their first postoperative visit.