Eyelid surgery is an excellent choice for those who have a visual obstruction caused by excess eyelid skin, or for those who are unhappy with the appearance of their eyelids. Common complaints of those seeking eyelid surgery are:

• lower eyelid bags
• excess eyelid skin
• tired appearance of the eyes
• puffiness of eyelids
• droopy eyelids
• sagging eyelids
• eyelid folds or wrinkles
• visual obstruction

Whatever your individual concerns, if you are in good health and have realistic expectations, eyelid surgery may be an excellent choice for you. Call Allure Plastics today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Walker to see how eyelid surgery can give your eyes that well-rested and refreshed look you would like to achieve.

While eyelid surgery is an excellent procedure for healthy individuals with appropriate expectations, there are some conditions that can increase your potential for a less-than-desirable outcome. These include:

• bleeding or clotting disorders
• anticoagulation or antiplatelet medications such as Coumadin, Plavix or aspirin
• poorly controlled blood pressure
• certain eye conditions including dry eyes
• medical conditions such as myasthenia gravis or thyroid disease
• conditions which result in poor wound healing capability
• smoking
• unrealistic expectations

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess eyelid skin and fat to relieve visual obstruction and/or produce a youthful, refreshed, or well-rested appearance to the eyes.

Upper eyelid surgery is performed under local anesthesia with light sedation or general anesthesia. It takes approximately one hour to perform. During the procedure, skin incisions are designed to hide in naturally occurring folds of the eyelids. Excess eyelid skin and fat is then removed or repositioned. Skin incisions are then closed.

Lower eyelid surgery, in general, follows the same series of steps. However, if your individual anatomy includes excessively lax skin or other conditions, additional procedures may be required to add support to the lower eyelid and help with the prevention of complications. These will be discussed during your consultation, if they are required.

Eyelid surgery is tolerated well by the vast majority of patients. Pain is mild to moderate and well-controlled by oral medications. Most patients go home the same day. Prescriptions will include oral medications for pain and nausea (which is a common occurrence after anesthesia), and they may also include an antibiotic.

Some mild swelling and bruising is expected. You will need to sleep with your head elevated for a few days. Cold packs may be applied intermittently during the first few days that follow the eyelid surgery. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for the first week or two following the operation. There are generally no sutures to be removed as Dr. Walker uses absorbable sutures that are buried beneath the skin.

Excess skin and fat of the eyelid will be removed during the surgery. This will give your eyes a refreshed, well-rested, and youthful appearance. The eyes will appear brighter and more alert. Visual field obstruction due to excess eyelid skin will be corrected. Scars from eyelid surgery are hidden in natural lines in the eyelid, and scars in this area tend to heal well, leaving only a fine line that is unnoticeable to others.

*Individual results may vary

Eyelid surgery is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. During your consultation, Dr. Walker will perform a detailed history and physical exam. We will identify the factors that may cause an increased risk regarding the surgery. This will help solidify our plan to relieve your symptoms or improve the aesthetic appearance of your eyes. While not common, risks and potential complications include the following:

• dry eyes
• ectropion
• difficulty closing eyes completely
• skin breakdown or delayed wound healing
• bleeding or hematoma formation
• infection
• unfavorable scarring
• vision changes or blindness
• anesthesia risks
• asymmetry
• need for further surgery

During the preoperative consultation, these potential risks will be discussed with you in great detail. Should you have any questions or concerns, they will be addressed. Dr. Walker is dedicated to the education of his patients, and he will help you understand the risks, benefits, and potential alternatives to eyelid surgery.

Many insurance companies will cover eyelid surgery if visual field obstruction is present due to having excess eyelid skin. Some insurance carriers require specific criteria to be met. Please check with your health insurance plan to see if it may be covered in your case. Pre-authorization will be needed if covered by your carrier.

It is important to note that if visual field obstruction is not present, then eyelid surgery is considered cosmetic, and it will not be covered by insurance.

It has been stated that, “the eyes are the windows to the soul.” Many individuals seeking eyelid surgery feel this to be true, and they feel that their eyes appear tired or sad. They seek eyelid surgery to help them achieve that refreshed, rejuvenated, and youthful appearance.The eyes are very prominent features on every individual’s face. Eye contact in everyday conversation, whether it be with friends and family or in a professional setting, leaves a lasting impression on others.

Eyelid surgery can make a dramatic result in one’s overall appearance. Individuals who decide to undergo eyelid surgery are pleased with the results, and they happily share their stories about friends, family, and acquaintances asking them about their recent vacation and stating how great they look–without ever knowing that a surgery was performed.

Deciding to undergo eyelid surgery is a personal choice, and choosing the right plastic surgeon is paramount. The eyelid is a delicate structure, and the anatomy is complex. Minor changes in operative technique can be the difference between a poor outcome and an outstanding result. With that being said, choosing the right plastic surgeon for you is extremely important.

Through attention to detail in your physical exam and in-depth conversation about your concerns, I will gain a better understanding of your distinct goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan that is best for you. Call our office today to schedule your appointment. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve the rejuvenated eyelid appearance you desire.