Droopy Eyelid Surgery Rejuvenates the Eyes and Results in a Youthful Appearance
Ptosis, or sagging, droopy eyelids, can give a person the appearance of always being tired. If the sagging is significant, it can impair vision, especially in the periphery. Advanced age can bring about the condition known as dermatochalasis, or baggy eyes, where there is an excess of skin in either the upper or lower eyelids.
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, aims to reverse the appearance of tired-looking or baggy eyes and correct any vision impairment they cause. At Plastic Surgery Specialists of South Florida in Hollywood, FL, we are committed to delivering exceptional patient results. We can perform eyelid surgery with precision and skill through advanced techniques, resulting in natural-looking outcomes that leave our patients feeling confident and happy with their appearance. We prioritize safety and quality in every aspect of our work, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care and attention throughout the entire process.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the eyelids. It involves removing or reshaping excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids or creating a crease in the upper eyelid for individuals with a single eyelid.
- Upper eyelid surgery focuses on the upper eyelids, addressing droopy or sagging skin that can impair vision or create an aged appearance.
- Lower eyelid surgery targets the lower eyelids, reducing bags, excess skin, and puffiness.
- Double eyelid surgery is primarily performed to create a crease in the upper eyelid for those with a monolid (single eyelid).
Eyelid surgery can result in rejuvenated eyes and a youthful appearance. You may want to consider blepharoplasty if you have:
- Droopy upper eyelids
- Eyelids that interfere with your vision
- Droopy lower eyelids that sag below the iris
- Excessive skin on the lower eyelids
- Dark bags or sunken skin under the eyes
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
Youthful and Rejuvenated Appearance
One of the primary benefits of eyelid surgery is its ability to restore a youthful and rejuvenated appearance to your eyes. By removing excess skin and reducing puffiness, the procedure can help you look more vibrant and well-rested.
Improved Vision
Eyelid surgery can improve vision by removing excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. This can reduce the appearance of droopy or sagging eyelids, which can obstruct vision. The procedure can also reduce puffiness around the eyes, which can help improve vision.
Elimination of Under-Eye Bags
Eyelid surgery effectively targets under-eye bags, often caused by fat accumulation and sagging skin. By addressing this concern, the procedure can give you a more rested and refreshed look.
Enhanced Facial Contours
Eyelid surgery can also enhance facial contours by creating a smoother transition between the forehead and cheekbones, giving the face a more balanced appearance overall.
Customizable Approach
Each individual’s eye anatomy and aesthetic goals are unique. With eyelid surgery, our skilled surgeons can tailor the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring personalized and natural-looking results.
No Visible Scarring
The incisions made during eyelid surgery are strategically placed in natural creases, resulting in minimal scarring that is virtually invisible.
Your Pre-Surgery Checklist
Complete Any Required Medical Tests
Before your eyelid surgery, we may ask you to complete specific medical tests, such as blood work or a general health evaluation. These tests help ensure you’re in good health and minimize potential risks during the procedure. Make sure to complete these tests well in advance of your surgery date.
Stop Smoking If Necessary
If you smoke, we recommend stopping as far in advance as possible. Smoking can interfere with your body’s ability to heal and may increase the risk of complications.
Stop Certain Medications
Some medications, such as blood thinners, aspirin, or certain supplements, can increase bleeding risks during and after surgery. We’ll provide you with a detailed list of what to avoid and when to stop taking them. Often, these medications need to be stopped a week or two in advance. Always consult us and your primary care physician before making any changes to your routine medications.
Arrange Your Transportation
Since eyelid surgery may be performed under general anesthesia and your vision may be temporarily affected, you won’t be able to drive yourself home afterward. Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to take you to and from the surgery center.
Prepare Your Recovery Space
Set up a comfortable recovery area at home before your procedure. Gather essentials like extra pillows to elevate your head, ice packs, and any medications or supplies we’ve recommended. Having everything within reach makes the healing process during the first few days more manageable.
What to Expect During Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty Is Simple and Safe
At Plastic Surgery Specialists of South Florida, we use state-of-the-art techniques to make dark, sagging, tired-looking eyes appear refreshed and alert. The eyelid procedures we perform include the removal of excess skin and fat to correct their appearance. Some patients benefit from transposing excess fat from the eyelids to fix the hollow region that develops with bags under the eyes. Wrinkles around the eyes can be further improved with skin removal and laser resurfacing.
Blepharoplasty is often an outpatient procedure. The anesthesia involved is a numbing agent administered by injection into the eyelids. Your plastic surgeon will make the incisions near the natural creases of your eyelids in order to hide the scars more effectively. Excessive skin, muscle, and fat are removed, and some fat may be redistributed as needed. The incision is then closed with the entire procedure taking about an hour to perform. Our eyelid surgery in Hollywood, FL can easily be performed alongside other facial procedures like brow or face lifts.
Dos and Don’ts of Recovery
Do:
- Ice the Area: Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the treated area can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the first few days after your eyelid surgery. Use a soft, clean cloth to protect your skin, and apply the ice for short intervals as directed. Avoid placing ice directly on your skin to prevent irritation.
- Use Prescribed Medications: Take all medications exactly as prescribed, including any antibiotics we recommend. These medications can help manage discomfort and lower the risk of infection. If you have any concerns about side effects or how to take your medications, reach out to us for clarification.
- Protect Your Eyes From the Elements: Your eyes will be more sensitive after surgery, so shielding them from bright sunlight, wind, and debris is important. Wear sunglasses with UV protection and consider using a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. If we provide lubricating eye drops, use them as instructed to keep your eyes comfortable.
- Elevate Your Head: Sleeping with your head elevated helps minimize swelling and promotes proper healing. Use extra pillows or a wedge cushion to keep your head raised, even while resting during the day. Avoid lying flat or sleeping on your side to prevent unnecessary pressure on the treated area.
Don’t:
- Rub Your Eyes: It’s natural to want to touch or rub your eyes if they feel itchy or irritated, but doing so can disrupt the healing process and lead to complications. If discomfort persists, let us know, and we can recommend ways to soothe the area safely.
- Resume Smoking: Smoking slows down your body’s ability to heal and can increase the risk of complications like poor wound healing or infections. Avoid smoking entirely during your recovery period.
- Strain Your Body: Heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous exercise can increase blood pressure and swelling, which can interfere with healing. Stick to light activities and avoid anything that raises your heart rate significantly until we clear you to resume normal physical routines.
- Wear Contacts: Contact lenses should be avoided until the healing process is complete, as inserting or removing them can irritate the area. Instead, use your glasses, and we’ll let you know when it’s safe to start wearing contacts again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eyelid Surgery
Is Eyelid Surgery Painful?
Eyelid surgery is typically well-tolerated, and any discomfort is usually minimal. Our team prioritizes patient comfort, and we use local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure.
What Is the Recovery Period Like for Eyelid Surgery?
The recovery period for eyelid surgery is relatively short. You may experience swelling and bruising, but these side effects should subside within a week or two. Most patients can resume their regular activities within a few days after the procedure.
How Soon Can I Wear Makeup After Eyelid Surgery?
You can typically start wearing makeup again a week after eyelid surgery once the incisions have healed. We will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Are the Results of Eyelid Surgery Permanent?
While eyelid surgery can deliver long-lasting results, it does not stop the natural aging process. However, the improvements achieved through the procedure are generally significant and can last many years.
Does Eyelid Surgery Address Crow’s Feet and Fine Lines?
While eyelid surgery primarily targets excess skin and puffiness around the eyes, it can also help diminish the appearance of crow’s feet and fine lines, contributing to a more youthful overall look. We may recommend combining the procedure with other treatments like Botox® or dermal fillers for more comprehensive wrinkle reduction.
Are There Any Potential Risks With Eyelid Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, eyelid surgery carries some potential risks. These may include temporary swelling, bruising, or dryness of the eyes. In rare cases, complications such as infection, bleeding, or difficulty closing the eyes may occur. We take every precaution to minimize these risks by thoroughly evaluating your health and providing detailed pre and post-operative care instructions. If you have specific concerns, we’re happy to address them during your consultation.
Am I a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery suits individuals experiencing droopy or sagging eyelids, under-eye bags, and puffiness, and those seeking to rejuvenate their eye appearance. To determine if you are a good candidate, schedule a consultation with us at Plastic Surgery Specialists of South Florida.
How Visible Are Blepharoplasty Scars?
Scars from eyelid surgery are discreet. Incisions are placed in the natural creases of the eyelids, such as the upper lid fold or just below the lower lash line, making them less noticeable once healed. Over time, scars usually fade and blend with the surrounding skin. Proper wound care, including keeping the area clean and using any recommended ointments or scar treatments, can further improve healing. If you’re concerned about scar visibility, we can discuss your skin type and healing tendencies and make recommendations.
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?
The cost of eyelid surgery depends on several factors, including the extent of the procedure and any additional care required. At Hollywood Surgical Center, we provide a Good Faith Estimate of anticipated charges. If your health insurance covers a portion of the procedure, we can help determine your cost-sharing responsibilities. For patients without coverage or those facing financial challenges, flexible payment plans or discounts may be available through our financial assistance policies.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Blepharoplasty
Selecting a surgeon for your eyelid surgery is an important decision that can influence your outcome. At Plastic Surgery Specialists of South Florida, we prioritize educating you about the procedure. Our surgeons combine extensive expertise with a commitment to patient care, offering surgical and non-surgical treatments in a comfortable and modern environment.
Our South Florida center features an accredited ambulatory surgical facility where the procedure is performed under the highest safety standards. With this facility, we can safely perform complex procedures on an outpatient basis, eliminating the need for a hospital setting in many cases.
In addition to surgical expertise, our med spa offers non-surgical treatments like injectables, facial peels, and laser hair removal to complement your results. During your consultation, we work closely with you to develop a personalized approach to enhance your appearance while prioritizing your comfort and safety.
Achieve a Youthful and Refreshed Look With Eyelid Surgery in Hollywood, FL
At Plastic Surgery Specialists of South Florida in Hollywood, FL, our team of skilled surgeons is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care regarding eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. This surgical procedure is sought after by men and women alike who want to achieve a more rested and youthful appearance around their eyes. Whether it’s drooping eyelids or under-eye bags, eyelid surgery can help to address these problem areas, resulting in a rejuvenated appearance.
Blepharoplasty can do wonders for one’s appearance. If impaired vision is present, it is likely that your medical insurance will cover the procedure. Contact the experts at Plastic Surgery Specialists of South Florida to schedule your consultation and learn about how we can help. You can get in touch with us through our website or by phone at (954) 987-8100.
