Blepharoplasty and Ptosis Repair

EYE CONDITIONS

Blepharoplasty/Ptosis Repair is plastic surgery of the eyelids to restore the natural beauty of your eyes. In this common procedure, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed from around the eyes. 

Why is Blepharoplasty performed?

Blepharoplasty can be both a functional and cosmetic surgical procedure intended to reshape the upper eyelid or lower eyelid by the removal or repositioning of excess tissue as well as by reinforcement of surrounding muscles and tendons. When an advanced amount of upper eyelid skin is present, the skin may hang over the eyelashes and cause a loss of peripheral vision. The outer and upper parts of the visual field are most commonly affected and the condition may cause difficulty with activities such as driving or reading. In this circumstance, upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed to improve peripheral vision. Patients with a less severe amount of excess skin may have a similar procedure performed for cosmetic reasons. In certain cases your insurance may cover the surgery if you are experiencing visual difficulties caused by excess skin weighing down your eyelids. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is almost always done for cosmetic reasons, to improve puffy lower eyelid "bags" and reduce the wrinkling of skin.

How is Blepharoplasty performed?

Blepharoplasty is performed through external incisions made along the natural skin lines of the eyelids, such as the creases of the upper lids and below the lashes of the lower lids, or from the inside surface of the lower eyelid.  Depending upon the scope of the procedure, the operation is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia.

Common symptoms after surgery include:

Initial swelling and bruising take one to two weeks to resolve but at least several months are needed until the final result becomes stable. Cold compresses may be applied to reduce swelling and brusing. Resting with the head elevated is recommended after surgery to relieve soreness and discomfort. Temporary blurred vision and tearing may be experienced after the procedure.

What are the results of Blepharoplasty?

The results can be quite dramatic, however, the final outcome depends on the extent of reconstructive work required, the patient's skin structure and age, and the healing process. Blepharoplasty surgery can alter a person's appearance as well as improve their peripheral vision.