Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and wrinkles from the upper eyelids. It also corrects droopiness of the upper eyelids. Upper eyelid surgery can improve a person’s visual field. Sometimes a forehead lift may also be needed to restore visual field.
Who Can Benefit from Eyelid Surgery?
The best candidates for eyelid surgery are individuals in good health who have realistic expectations about the outcome. They are usually at least 55 years old and nonsmokers.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
A typical eyelid surgery takes about one to two hours. You’ll receive a local anesthetic with shorter acting general anesthesia. Upper eyelid surgery incisions are made along the natural folds of the eyelids and the skin is separated so that excess tissue, fat and muscle can be removed.
What Can I Expect with Eyelid Surgery?
While eyelid surgery is a common procedure that thousands of people undergo every year without problems, there is always some risk involved with surgery. Possible complications include infection, hematoma, scarring, allergic reactions, an inability to completely close the eyes, loss of vision and dryness or irritation in the eyes. You’ll likely experience some swelling or bruising and may experience blurry vision and a sensitivity to light.
Results are usually long lasting, although continued aging can make forehead skin sag, resulting in the appearance of droopy eyelids again over time. Some patients may benefit with a browlift and others may need additional surgery on the upper eyelids after a number of years
Call Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery at (503) 581-1567 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
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