How Is Facelift Surgery Performed?
Aging is inevitable, but it isn’t always kind. The passage of time takes a toll on every part of the body, but nowhere are those changes more apparent — and harder to conceal — than … Read On
West Michigan Plastic Surgery
8175 Creekside Drive, Suite 100
Portage, MI 49024
Phone: (269) 222-1611
Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
West Michigan Plastic Surgery
3035 Capital Ave SW, Suite 110
Battle Creek, MI 49015
Phone: (269) 222-1611
Tuesday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday: 12:30 p.m.–4 p.m.
Rejuvenate Tired, Puffy Eyes
If your eyes are looking tired and puffy, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate them and make you look younger and more alert. Over time, the skin around the eyes stretches and sags leading to droopy upper eyelids. The fat around the eye also shifts downward resulting in undereye bags. These issues can be addressed with eyelid surgery.
Eyelid surgery has an extremely high patient satisfaction rate when performed by a highly-skilled board-certified plastic surgeon. At West Michigan Plastic Surgery, Kalamazoo, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Scott Holley has the specific skills and training needed to deliver excellent aesthetic results after eyelid surgery.
Eyelid Surgery
Before & After Photos
Case: 1 of 6
Before & After
Case: 1 of 5
This 66 year old from Kalamazoo, Michigan presented with severe dermatochalasis and blepharoptosis of the upper eyelids causing visual obstruction. He chose to undergo facelift, necklift, as well as upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
Before & After
Case: 2 of 5
This 55 year old from Delton, Michigan presented with a desire for comprehensive facial rejuvination. He chose to pursue a plan that included facelift, hairline browlift, upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, and limited facial fat transfer.
Before & After
Case: 3 of 5
This 61 year old from Scotts, Michigan presented with upper visual field obstruction and early ptosis. She chose to undergo upper lid blepharoplasty with levator advancement as well as lower lid blepharoplasty to improve their appearance.
Before & After
Case: 4 of 5
Before & After
Case: 5 of 5
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty or eyelid lift surgery, is a procedure that corrects signs of aging around the eyes. Eyelid lift surgery may involve surgery on either the upper or lower eyelids, or both. Upper blepharoplasty addresses droopy upper eyelids while lower blepharoplasty corrects sagging lower eyelids and bags below the eyes.
Candidates For Eyelid Surgery
Men and women with droopy upper eyelids that interfere with their peripheral field of vision or make them look tired are ideal candidates for eyelid surgery. Individuals with under-eye bags are also good candidates. Candidates for blepharoplasty must be in good health and have realistic expectations of surgery.
Eyelid surgery is very commonly combined with other procedures such as face/neck lift and brow lift surgery in those seeking complete facial rejuvenation.
How Does It Work?
Eyelid lift surgery at West Michigan Plastic Surgery can be done under local, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. Blepharoplasty takes 1-2 hours to complete.
The incision for upper blepharoplasty is made in the natural fold of the eye, so the resulting scar is indiscernible. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the incision sutured.
In lower blepharoplasty, the location of the incision will depend on the problem being addressed. If excess skin is being removed, the incision is made just below the lashes. In cases where there is no excess eyelid skin, the incision can be made inside the lower eyelid. This technique is known as a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. During a lower eyelid lift fat below the eyes is removed or repositioned, and excess skin trimmed as needed.
Results
Mild swelling and eyelid irritation are common for one week following surgery. Most patients do not require narcotic pain medication. Stitches are typically removed in 5-7 days, and most resume work and normal activity within 7-10 days. Complete healing may take 6 weeks and results are long-lasting.
Recovery
You may experience tightness around the eyes, swelling, bruising, and eye dryness after eyelid lift surgery. A cold compress can be used to minimize bruising and swelling. Side-effects will gradually subside in the days following surgery. You may also experience excess tearing, sensitivity to light, and temporary blurring or double vision in the weeks following surgery.
FAQ’s About Eyelid Surgery
Are there any risks associated with eyelid lift surgery?
There is always the possibility of risks with any type of surgical procedure. Risks associated with eyelid lift surgery include infection, bleeding, and irritated eyes. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform the operation and adhering to post-surgical instructions can help to minimize risks after blepharoplasty.
How do I plan for eyelid surgery?
Your initial consultation with Dr. Holley is vital in determining if you would be a good candidate for eyelid lift surgery. Dr. Holley will discuss the concerns you have with the appearance of your eyes and outline what you can expect from eyelid lift surgery. He will also need to review your entire medical history, test your vision, assess your tear production, and learn about your aesthetic goals and expectations.
How do I prepare for eyelid surgery?
You will be asked to stop taking certain medications, supplements, and anti-inflammatory drugs. You will also need to stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption. It’s also important to arrange to have someone drive you home after surgery.
How soon will I be back to normal after eyelid lift surgery?
Patients are generally able to go back to work within 7-10 days of surgery. Any lingering bruising can usually be covered with makeup. However, side-effects such as sensitivity to light, wind, and other irritants will persist for several weeks. It’s therefore advisable to wear sunglasses and sunscreen that is safe for use around the eyes when going outdoors.
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