UPPER AND LOWER EYELID LIFTS
Each year thousands of men and women choose eyelid surgery to help restore a more energized, youthful appearance. Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery can correct sagging eyelids, remove fatty pouches or “bags” under the eyes, and remove excess skin. Sometimes referred to as a “mini-facelift”, blepharoplasty has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because of its high level of patient satisfaction. This procedure can be done alone or in conjunction with a facelift or brow lift.
CONSULTATION
During your initial cosmetic surgery evaluation, Dr. Cook will evaluate the health of your eyes; discuss your expectations, and the probable outcome of treatment. You will be shown before and after photographs of patients having similar conditions and you will receive an explanation of your treatment. Blepharoplasty is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and most insurance companies will not pay for the procedure. However, if your eyelids are encroaching upon your field of vision, the procedure may be covered as “medically necessary” surgery. We would be happy to contact your insurance carrier to determine if they cover the procedure.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON PROCEDURE DAY:
You will arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure. Once you have been checked-in and settled comfortably, you will be prepared for surgery. Your before photographs will be taken and you will be given a mild sedative to relax. Blepharoplasty is generally performed using a local anesthetic.
If you are having surgery performed on your upper eyelids, Dr. Cook will remove the excess skin, muscle, and fatty tissue that have accumulated in the inside corner of your eye. The incisions will be made along the natural folds in your skin so that as the incisions heal, they become difficult, if not impossible to see.
If your surgery is on your lower eyelids, Dr. Cook will make the incision inside or behind the eyelid (providing there is not too much excess skin). This technique is called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, which allows the removal of fatty deposits while avoiding the need for an external incision. If you have excessive skin or muscle folds below the eye, an incision may also be made just below the base of the eyelashes. As this incision heals, the fine scar should become barely visible.
After the procedure you will need someone to drive you home. You may experience some bruising and swelling for a week to a month after surgery. Frozen peas placed in a Ziploc bag and head elevation will help reduce these effects. Dr. Cook will also prescribe an eye ointment to be used on your incision to keep the area moist and clean.
