blepharoplasty

Overview
As time goes by, the muscles of our eyelids weaken and we can
develop fat pockets on our upper or lower eyelids. The appearance of
our eyes can make us look older, more tired and in some cases it can
impede vision. Blepharoplasty is an eyelid surgery that can create a
younger, more vibrant appearance by removing excess skin, muscle
and fat of the eyelids.

At Marcus Facial Plastic Surgery, our highly trained and award winning
facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Keith Marcus, offers complimentary
consultations for all of his patients. During the consultation, you will
determine a treatment plan tailored for your individual needs. During
your pre-operative appointment, Dr. Marcus will conduct a medical
examination, ask you questions concerning your health, discuss your expectations, and answer any questions you might have. There are
many different types of blepharoplasty and depending on the etiology of the problem, the skin type, and the patient’s ultimate goal,
Dr. Marcus will determine which technique is most ideal.

Goal
The goal of blepharoplasty is to rejuvenate the eye area and once again make this a positive focal point of a person’s face. The surgery
can correct various upper and lower eyelid problems such as droopy eyelids which impair vision, bags under the eyes which create a
tired appearance and redundant skin that makes a person look older. The result is a fresh appearance with younger looking eyes.

Procedure
Blepharoplasty is a relatively short surgery, typically performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia or moderate sedation.
Upper and lower eyelid surgery is safe and oftened performed at the same time. The surgeon marks the eyelid and makes an incision
along the natural fold of the upper eyelid; the excess skin, muscle and fat are then removed. The incision is meticulously closed, leaving a
nearly invisible scar. The incision on the lower lid is made just below the lashes in your eye’s natural crease or inside the lower eyelid.
Excess fat, sagging skin and muscle are removed. If sutures are placed, they are placed within the lower lid’s natural crease, leaving a
nearly invisible scar.

Recovery
Directly after the surgery, the surgeon will place ice packs over the eyes and the patient will intermittently use cool compresses for the
next 24-48 hours. Cool compresses and elevation of the head will aid in any swelling and bruising that may occur after surgery. Due to
the ointment used to lubricate the eyes, it is not uncommon for the patient to experience excessive tearing or partially blurred vision briefly
after surgery. During recovery, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise and weight lifting until one week after surgery. Sutures will be
removed three to five days following the procedure, and patients should protect the delicate eyelid skin from sun exposure while the
incision is healing and the scar is fading.