Blepharoplasty refers to upper or lower eyelid surgical rejuvenation. For excess upper eyelid skin, I remove this tissue in a nearly scarless method. This procedure is a relatively small procedure and can sometimes even be performed under local anesthesia although I do usually perform it under general anesthesia to completely alleviate patient anxiety.
I begin the procedure by injecting local anesthetic into the upper eyelid skin to be removed. This also helps to minimize any bleeding or bruising. Once the medication has taken effect, I begin the upper blepharoplasty by creating an incision along the natural fold in your eyelid. Placing the incision here helps to hide your scar.
I then carefully remove excess fat deposits and sagging skin. Because the skin is so thin in this area, the scar heals very well. I will then use an extremely fine suture to close the incision.
For a lower blepharoplasty, I usually access the fat bags under the eyes through a small incision on the inside of the eyelid. While this may sound scary, the eyes are protected with special plastic shields and this approach actually prevents any scar on the outside of the eyelids and heals extremely well. Fat is removed as needed to create a smooth transition from the eyelid to the upper cheek. A special stitch is usually placed to help support the lower lid to protect it from pulling down and away from the eye.
At the end of the procedure, ointment is placed in the eyes to protect them from drying and a cooling pack is placed over the upper face to reduce swelling. You will keep your head up for the first week to minimize swelling in the face.