FAQ's - Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery, Eyelid Lift)

Eyelid surgery, also called an eyelid lift or blepharoplasty, can rejuvenate puffy, sagging or tired-looking eyes by removing excess fat, skin and muscle from the upper and/or lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery may be performed for cosmetic reasons or to improve sight by lifting droopy upper eyelids out of the patient's field of vision.

What can eyelid surgery do for me?
What won't blepharoplasty correct?
Am I a good candidate for an eyelid lift?
How is a blepharoplasty performed?
What is recovery from eyelid surgery like?
What are the risks of eyelid surgery?

What can eyelid surgery do for me?

Eyelid Surgery | Eyelid Lift | Long Island | Suffolk County Blepharoplasty is ideal for the correction of multiple issues with the eyelids. Loose, sagging and/or folded upper eyelids that may limit vision can be corrected by removing the excess skin. Puffiness, which is actually due to excess fat from around the eye may be removed to give a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Excess skin or laxity and drooping of the lower eyelids may similarly be corrected with surgery. Sometimes, wrinkles in the eyelids may be improved by removing excess skin.

What won't blepharoplasty correct?

Blepharoplasty cannot raise the eyebrows or reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, crow's feet or dark circles under the eyes. However, eyelid lifts can be combined with other procedures such as browlifts, BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments and laser procedures to achieve these results.

Am I a good candidate for an eyelid lift?

The best candidates for blepharoplasty are generally healthy, do not smoke, have realistic expectations and do not have any serious eye conditions.

How is a blepharoplasty performed?

Eyelid surgery is usually performed in an office, usually with local anesthesia and IV sedation, although more complicated cases may be performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made along the eyelids in inconspicuous places. The upper eyelid incision is made in the natural eyelid crease. The lower eyelid incision either lies directly below the eyelash line (subciliary incision), or is made on the inside of the eyelid (trans-conjunctival incision), hiding the incision from view. With the latter procedure, there are no visible scars.

What is recovery from eyelid surgery like?

Bruising, swelling and a sense of tightness in the eyelids are common after eyelid surgery. These should subside within 2-4 weeks. Most patients resume activities in 3-5 days. Sutures are removed in six days. You may return to work in about 10 days. By one to two months after surgery, you should see the true results of your eyelid lift: a more awake and cheerful look around the eyes, and greater self-confidence.

Contact lenses may not be worn for two weeks. Eyes can be sensitive to light and wind and may be slightly irritated for a short while. Dr. Epstein may prescribe eye drops and cool compresses to ease any discomfort.

What are the risks of eyelid surgery?

Complications from blepharoplasty are uncommon, but can include infection, reaction to anesthesia, dry eyes, double or blurred vision for a few days, temporary swelling of the eyelids, tiny whiteheads, and difficulty closing the eyes when going to sleep. Uneven healing and scarring, and ectropion (pulling down of the lower lids) are very rare and may require surgical correction. Patients with thyroid problems, dry eye, high blood pressure, diabetes, detached retina, glaucoma or other health problems should consult with an ophthalmologist about eligibility.