Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is a type of surgery that repairs droopy eyelids and may involve removing excess skin, muscle and fat. As you age, your eyelids stretch, and the muscles supporting them weaken. As a result, excess fat may gather above and below your eyelids, causing sagging eyebrows, droopy upper lids and bags under your eyes.

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Procedure

Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids or both. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. To help decide which is best for you, your doctor will consider your specific condition, the natural shape of your eyes, the condition of your skin and your overall health.

Upper eyelid surgery

In upper eyelid surgery, the surgeon makes an incision along the fold of the eyelid, removes some excess skin, muscle and possibly fat, and closes the incision.

Lower eyelid surgery

In lower eyelid surgery, the surgeon makes an incision just below the lashes in your eye's natural crease or inside the lower lid. He or she removes or redistributes excess fat, muscle and sagging skin, and closes the incision.

Risks

As with any surgery, blepharoplasty carries some risks, such as infection and reactions to anesthesia. Other possible risks specific to blepharoplasty include:

• Dry, irritated eyes
• Difficulty closing your eyes or other eyelid problems
• Noticeable scarring
• Skin discoloration
• Need for a second surgery
• Temporary or even permanent change in vision, and very rarely, loss of vision

Recovery

After surgery, you spend time in a recovery room, where you are monitored for complications. You can leave later that day to recuperate at home.

See Also

• Plastic Surgery
• Cosmetic Surgery
• Eyelid Disorders