BLEPHAROPLASTY

Blepharoplasty (BLEF-uh-roe-plas-tee) is a type of surgery that repairs droopy eyelids and may involve removing excess skin, muscle, and fat. As age increases, eyelids stretch, and the muscles supporting them weaken. As a result, excess fat may gather above and below the eyelids, causing sagging eyebrows, droopy upper lids, and bags under the eyes.

Besides making look older, severely sagging skin around the eyes can reduce side vision (peripheral vision), especially the upper and outer parts of one’s field of vision. Blepharoplasty can reduce or eliminate these vision problems and make their eyes appear younger and more alert.

Blepharoplasty may be an option if one has:

·        Baggy or droopy upper eyelids

·        Excess skin of the upper eyelids that interferes with your peripheral vision

·        Excess skin on the lower eyelids

·        Bags under your eyes

One may undergo blepharoplasty at the same time as another procedure, such as a brow lift, face-lift, or skin resurfacing.

Before your eyelid surgery, you'll undergo:

·        A physical examination. Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination, which may include testing your tear production and measuring parts of your eyelids.

·        A vision examination. Your eye doctor will examine your eyes and test your vision, including your peripheral vision.

·        Eyelid photography. Your eyes will be photographed from different angles. These photos help with planning the surgery, assessing its immediate and long-term effects.

Risks

Possible risks of eyelid surgery include:

·        Infection and bleeding

·        Dry, irritated eyes

·        Difficulty closing your eyes or other eyelid problems

·        Noticeable scarring

·        Injury to eye muscles

·        Skin discoloration

·        The need for a follow-up surgery

·        Temporarily blurred vision or, rarely, loss of eyesight