What is Involved with an Eyelid Lift?

Drooping eyelids, also known as ptosis, can have several consequences, including:

• Reduced vision: If the drooping is severe enough, it can block the field of vision, making it difficult to see clearly.
• Fatigue: Drooping eyelids can cause the eyes to feel tired and strained, leading to feelings of fatigue.
• Difficulty with facial expressions: Ptosis can cause difficulty with facial expressions, as the drooping eyelids can give the appearance of sadness or disinterest.
• Difficulty with activities that require good vision: People with ptosis may have difficulty with activities that require good vision, such as driving or reading.
• Psychological effects: Ptosis can also have psychological effects, as people with drooping eyelids may feel self-conscious about their appearance.

An eyelid lift, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids. It can be performed for cosmetic reasons to enhance the appearance of the eyes and make them look more youthful or for functional reasons to improve vision that may be impaired due to excess skin or fat in the eyelids.

What’s Involved with a Blepharoplasty?

The procedure involves making small incisions in the eyelids’ natural creases to remove excess skin, fat, and muscle. The incisions are then closed with sutures or skin glue. In some cases, the procedure may also involve repositioning the muscles and fat to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Before the eyelid lift surgery, the patient will typically have a consultation with the surgeon to discuss their goals and concerns and evaluate their medical history and current health. The surgeon will also examine the patient’s eyes and eyelids to determine the best approach for the surgery.

On the day of the surgery, the patient will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the eyes and a sedative to help them relax. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.

After the surgery, the patient will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. They may also experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the eyes, which can be managed with cold compresses and pain medication. The sutures or skin glue will be removed after a few days, and the patient will be able to return to normal activities within a week or two.

It’s important to note that blepharoplasty is not a permanent solution, and the effects of the surgery will gradually fade over time. However, the surgery results can be long-lasting and may last several years.

Overall, an eyelid lift is a relatively safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve the appearance of the eyes and give the patient a more youthful and refreshed look. However, like any surgery, it does carry some risks, including infection, scarring, and changes in sensation around the eyes. Discussing these risks and concerns with the surgeon before the procedure is essential.