Understanding Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a common cosmetic surgery procedure. Blepharoplasty can be done on the upper or lower eyelid. Upper eyelid surgery is done to lift the eyelid and skin above the eye. This can be to remove obstructions to a patient's vision, or to give them a more aware and awake appearance. The purpose of lower eyelid surgery is to remove bags below the eye.
Upper eyelid surgery involves making an incision along the natural upper eyelid crease, removing the excess skin and/or fat and muscle from above the eye. This helps to remove or reduce the heavy lidded and sleepy appearance that the drooping of the eyelids and the deposition of fat deposits over the eyes creates and it makes the patient appear more awake and youthful.
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty offers the choice of two different procedures, the external or transcutaneous lower blepharoplasty and the internal or transconjunctival blepharoplasty. The external or transcutaneous, meaning “through the skin” lower eyelid surgery is good for the removal of excess fat and skin of the lower eyelid, and sometimes muscle. This helps to remove the puffiness and “bags” under the eyes. The incision is made on the outside of the eyelid, along the curve so that the scar is concealed by the shape of the eyelid. This procedure allows for the removal of more tissue for a more severe issue. The internal/transconjunctival “through the conjunctiva”lower blepharoplasty is good for the simple removal of puffiness-causing fat from the lower eyelid. This procedure can only be used to remove fat from under the lower eyelid. The incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, so that there is absolutely no incision visible.
Both types of lower eyelid surgeries are performed most commonly under general anesthesia. However, both types can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Most types of cosmetic surgery that occur around the eyes utilize protective lenses similar to contact lenses during the procedure so that no damage to the cornea of the eye occurs during the delicate work.
Like any surgery, blepharoplasty, both upper and lower, carries risks. On the upper eyelid, if too much skin is removed, it may limit the ability of the eyes to close fully. Lower eyelid surgery can cause muscle injury, scarring, misshaped eyelid and the possibility of a hollow under the eye. There is also risk of injury to the eye or eye muscles, and of course risk of infection and bleeding that goes with surgery of any kind.
Dr. Pollard of Pollard Plastic Surgery is happy to consult with new patients about upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, their benefits and their risks. Please call us at Pollard Plastic Surgery to make an appointment.
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