Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty or an eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure to remove skin and fat from the eyelids. The term "eyelid lift" is a misconception because the eyelid is not lifted during surgery.

Aging, gravity, loss of elastic tissue in the skin, and weakening of the connective tissues of the eyelid, frequently contribute to a lax and redundant eyelid tissue. This excess tissues hangs down over the front edge of the eyelid. Weakening of the tissue can also cause protrusion of some eye fat presenting as puffiness in the medial upper eyelid.

These changes will result in a heavy looking eyelid, aged appearance, puffiness, and sometimes will impair the vision.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed under local anesthesia. By pinching the excess skin between two forceps, the amount of vertical skin excision is determined. The excess skin is excised and the protruding fat is removed. The incision lines are made in the natural creases of the upper lids so any resulting scarring is hidden. The wound is closed with fine sutures so the scars will become less noticeable and troublesome.

Usually patients have a short recovery time after blepharoplasty. Although bruising and swelling is usually worse on the day after surgery, they quickly begin to disappear. During the first 48 hours the use of cool compresses can greatly reduce bruising and swelling around the eyes and face. Light activity such as walking will also help speed healing. The stitches can remain in the skin for about a week. Most people return to normal activities after 7 to 10 days following blepharoplasty. By 2 weeks after eyelid surgery, the majority of the bruising and swelling will resolve.

A successful eyelid surgery can make your eyes look younger and more alert while providing you with enhanced self-esteem and confidence in your appearance.