Eyelid Surgery | Blepharoplasty | Upper Eyelid Lift | Manhattan | New York City (NYC)
The eyes are one of our most intriguing facial features. Our emotional and physical feelings are often reflected in the appearance of our eyes. For this reason, the signs of aging in this area are quickly noticed by others. Several factors such as aging, sun damage, smoking, stress, genetics and weight fluctuation can cause the eyelids to droop and sag as the supporting tissues weaken. The eyelids (periorbital region) are often one of the first areas on the face to deteriorate, as the skin of the eyelid is thinner than the rest of the face. Eyelids that droop or become puffy can cause people to appear much older or more fatigued than they actually are.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids by removing excess fat and skin. This procedure can be performed on men and women alike and offers a younger, more refreshed look. Blepharoplasty is now the third most popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedure. The popularity of this procedure reflects the importance of the eyes in improving our overall appearance. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyes, you may want to consider blepharoplasty to improve your look and boost your confidence through this safe procedure.
Candidates
The best candidates for eyelid surgery are individuals who are in good overall health and who do not have a serious eye condition. If you have loose, sagging skin or puffy bags around your eyes, this procedure can help reduce these unwanted effects, and leave the eyes looking alert and refreshed. Adults of all ages, with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind, can benefit from this procedure.
Procedure
The eyelid lift procedure is usually performed as an outpatient, with sedation/twilight anesthesia. Occasional patients may have an upper eyelid lift with local anesthesia. Patients may choose to have this procedure on their upper or lower eyelids, or both. Depending on these choices, the procedure can take anywhere from one to three hours.
Upper Eyelid Lift (Upper Blepharoplasty)
Upper eyelid lifts are one of the most frequently performed facial procedures and can remove excess skin and puffiness in the upper eyelid region. A discrete incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid fold and is used to remove and reposition fat deposits and remove excess skin in order to leave the eye looking younger and refreshed. As with other cosmetic procedures, there are considerations that affect the result. Patients with fullness in the outer aspect of the upper eyelid may have a prominent tear gland (lacrimal gland), which may diminish the effectiveness of the surgery. Patients with droopy eyebrows can also have fuller upper eyelids that will not significantly improve without a brow lift.
Lower Eyelid Lift (Lower Blepharoplasty)
Lower eyelid lifts can tighten the skin of the lower eyelids and remove excess fat that causes puffiness. It can be performed alone or in combination with the upper eyelids. For the standard approach to the lower eyelid, a discrete incision is made just below the lash line in order for excess skin and fat to be removed. Occasionally, extra support is needed in the lower eyelid and additional tightening of the eyelid itself is performed (cathopexy/canthoplasty).
In instances where the main problem is puffiness, an incision can be placed inside the eyelid to address puffiness, thus avoiding an external scar. This approach is known as a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, and is commonly performed with laser resurfacing to tighten and smooth the periorbital skin.
Recovery
After the blepharoplasty procedure, Dr. Schwartz recommends applying lubricating ointment and cold compresses to aid the healing process and minimize side effects such as swelling, bruising, irritation or dry eyes. Patients can usually return to work within five to seven days if an upper eyelid lift is performed alone, and approximately ten to fourteen days if upper and lower eyelid lifts are performed together. Exercise and strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks. The majority of swelling and other side effects usually subside within two weeks after surgery. Dr. Schwartz will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes after surgery at his practice in New York City.
Results
Results of a blepharoplasty procedure are visible almost immediately. As swelling and bruising subside, the results will continue to improve for up to a year after surgery. The scars from the blepharoplasty procedure are usually extremely well-concealed and will fade with time until they are virtually unnoticeable. The incision is hidden inside the crease of the eyelid in an upper blepharoplasty, and just below the lashes or inside the eyelid in a lower blepharoplasty.
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with this procedure. Although rare, these risks include bleeding, infection, dry eyes, skin discoloration and visual difficulties. You can discuss these risks, along with any other concerns you may have, with Dr. Schwartz at his practice in New York City.
If you are interested in learning more about an Eyelid Lift in New York City, call 212-737-9090 to schedule a consultation.
It is important for patients to have realistic expectations before undergoing surgery in order to be satisfied with their results.