Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Fortunately, a fairly short, outpatient surgery with minimal discomfort is available. SHarper Plastic Surgery offers blepharoplasty in Indianapolis. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that can minimize the factors that contribute to an “older” or “tired” appearance. Blepharoplasty can provide a powerful improvement in the patient’s appearance, but should not produce an artificial look, and when combined with other treatments, including Botox®, dermal fillers, medical-grade skincare, and even a facelift, this surgery can provide a youthful and rested result.
BEFORE
& AFTER
Choosing Eyelid Surgery: Who is a Good Fit?
The most common complaints of patients requesting blepharoplasty include drooping upper eyelids, “bags” under the eyes, and an overall tired or weary appearance. Patients who have these concerns may be appropriate candidates for blepharoplasty surgery. If these problems are of concern, please contact Dr. Stanley Harper for a consultation and evaluation.
Nonetheless, the best candidates for blepharoplasty surgery are people who tend to have realistic expectations from the procedure. Most patients are above 35 years old, however, if droopy or baggy eyelids are a genetic phenomenon, then you should consult Dr. Harper sooner.
You will see a big difference in your appearance after your blepharoplasty in Indianapolis. Not only does it enhance the aesthetics of your face but it can boost your confidence.
How Do the Eyelids Age?
Aging skin is characterized by a loss of elasticity. This factor combined with the constant gravitational pull leads to the accumulation of excess skin on the upper and lower eyelids. The presence of excess skin on the lower eyelids makes bulges and wrinkles very prominent. In the upper eyelids, the collection of excess skin can hang on the eyelashes and obstruct your vision.
The fat tissue from the skull that acts as cushions for the eyeballs can also bulge in both upper and lower eyelids. There is a thin membrane that holds this fat tissue in place, but it loosens with age, thereby causing the tissue to come forward like a hernia.
How to Prepare for Eyelid Surgery?
On the day of the surgery, you will need another person to drive you home after the procedure. Try getting a friend or family to stay over with you at night to help you out. Also, you should plan to take off from work and reduce your activities for a couple of days after your blepharoplasty in Indianapolis so that your eyelids heal. Some people tend to have dry eyes after the procedure, but the symptom rarely lasts more than two weeks. If you have dry eyes for more than two weeks, you should contact your doctor.
Have the following items ready at home:
- Ice cubes and an ice pack.
- Small gauze pads.
- Eye drops or artificial tears as recommended by your doctor.
- Clean washcloths and towels.
- Over-the-counter painkillers as recommended by your doctor.
Eyelid Surgery: What to Expect?
Your eyelid surgery will be an outpatient procedure and should last between one and three hours. General anesthesia will be used to ensure you are completely comfortable.
Incisions are placed along the natural lines of the eyelids so that scars will be well hidden. The incisions in the upper eyelids are usually placed in the crease of the upper eyelid. Lower eyelid incisions are placed below the lashes.
Dr. Harper will separate the skin from the underlying fatty tissue and muscle, remove or reposition excess fat, and trim sagging skin and muscle. The incisions are then closed with fine sutures.
Dr. Stanley Harper performs blepharoplasty with the patient undergoing general anesthesia. This allows him to have precise control over the procedure, without the risk of the patient moving. This technique additionally provides the patient with comfort during the procedure.
After the patient is placed under anesthesia, Dr. Stanley Harper will remove the excess skin, muscle and possibly remove or reposition excess fat and then will close the cut.
The eyelids have an amazing ability to heal, and Dr. Harper will place the scars within the natural folds of the skin. While the scars are permanent, most patients are surprised at how well they are hidden once healed.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Recovery from Blepharoplasty is mostly considered “social.” This means that while there will be some pain or discomfort initially, the majority of patients state their main concern is bruising and swelling around the eyes, as well as the appearance of stitches that will be in place for the first week. Some patients describe having a blurred vision for several days after the surgery, which is completely normal.
Dr. Stanley Harper encourages patients to remain in an upright or elevated head position for the first week, and moderate use of ice packs are helpful to reduce swelling and bruising. Aerobic exercise and heavy lifting (more than 10 pounds) can be resumed 3 weeks after your blepharoplasty in Indianapolis.
