Blepharoplasty

The aging process often causes the eyelids to sag with excess skin and fatty pockets. As the skin relaxes, the natural fold of the upper eyelid can become more apparent due to excessive skin, while wrinkled, redundant skin of the lower eyelid may reveal protrusions of fat. A deep crease known as a “tear trough” can form at the junction of the lower eyelid and the cheek that exacerbates the aged look.

A blepharoplasty involves the removal of excess skin and fat pockets, or repositioning of the fat pockets to correct the tear trough deformity. This cosmetic procedure gives the eyelids a trimmed, tightened, more youthful look.

Best Candidates for Blepharoplasty

Optimal candidates for blepharoplasty should have the following circumstances:

Overall good health
Baggy, droopy eyelids
Minimal laxity of the eyelids
Minimal complaints of dry eyes other than seasonal allergies
No recent changes in visual acuity
Realistic expectations

If you feel you are a candidate for blepharoplasty and would like to learn more about the procedure, please call Bowers Plastic Surgery at 336-907-7980 or Contact Us to arrange an appointment with Dr. Bowers.

Techniques

A blepharoplasty is designed to restore the balance between the skin and soft tissues. This requires the removal of a certain amount of excess skin and either trimming the fat pockets or repositioning them in a favorable location. The goal is to create a more youthful appearance for the eyelids as opposed to a hollow look that may result when too much skin and fat is removed.

The upper eyelid is addressed through an incision in the natural fold. Visible bulging of the fat pads is removed while care is taken to avoid the sacrifice of too mush volume. The lower eyelid is a delicate structure and must be respected as such. It may be approached through an external incision just below the lash line, an internal incision located inside the eyelid, or a combination of the two. If removal of excess skin is planned, it must be performed through an external incision. The fat pockets can be removed or repositioned in the lower eyelid to fill in the tear trough. This repositioning of the fat pockets as opposed to removal can result in a smoother contour and enhanced volume consistent with a more youthful appearance.

The Surgery

Blepharoplasty is performed in an outpatient setting under local, sedation (“twilight”), or general anesthesia. You and your surgeon will decide what type of anesthesia is best in your situation.

The incision for the upper eyelid is placed in the natural crease close to the lash line. It may extend slightly beyond the outside corner of the eye where hooding of skin is often present. The excess skin is removed, a small amount of muscle may be trimmed, and the removal of visible bulges of fat performed.

The lower eyelids may be approached through an external incision located just below the lashes, an incision inside the eyelid, or a combination of the two. The removal of any excess skin necessitates an external incision. The underlying fat pads are either trimmed or repositioned. Repositioning permits restoration of volume in the depressed area known as the tear trough and the creation of a smoother transition of the contour from the eyelid to the cheek. The result is a more youthful, relaxed, and rested look.

Recovery

It is normal to experience bruising and swelling for the first couple of weeks. The intermittent application of ice compresses for a few days helps to control these side effects. It is best to avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks because it may aggravate these symptoms. Head elevation for a week will promote the resolution of swelling. You should be able to shower and perform light activities around the house in a day or two. You may be asked to use some eye drops. Artificial tears may prove helpful initially. Sutures are removed in the office within a week.

Risks

There are risks associated with blepharoplasty as there are with any surgery. An experienced surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery can help minimize the chances of complications. The risks include bleeding, infection, increased pigmentation, scars, inability to close the eyelids, displaced eyelid margin (ectropion), dry eyes, and excessive tearing. Dr. Bowers will discuss the risks with you carefully and answer any questions you may have. The safe performance of the procedure is the primary goal.

Costs

Costs will vary slightly depending upon the amount of operative time that will be needed. Our office manager will discuss the costs and provide a written quote for you.

Commonly Combined Procedures

Blepharoplasty can be performed with other facial surgeries such as facelift, mini facelift, or brow lift. You should discuss the combination of procedures with Dr. Bowers if you are interested. Call Bowers Plastic Surgery at 336-907-7980 or Contact Us to arrange a consultation with Dr. Bowers.

Get in Touch

Phone: 336-907-7980

1002 North Church Street, Suite 203

Greensboro, NC 27401

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