The depth and breadth of Dr. Schnarrs’ background enables him to find the right solution for every patient he works with. He believes that patients enjoy the best outcomes when their doctors aren’t “providers” but rather partners in achieving optimal results.
Overview
Most people will develop aesthetic issues with their eyelids as they age. From sagging skin or puffiness in the upper eyelids to droopiness of the lower eyelids, the result can be a tired, aged appearance. Blepharoplasty is surgery that removes excess skin, fat or muscle to correct these issues.
Is Blepharoplasty Right for You?
Eyelid surgery can decrease the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the upper and lower eyelid, and provide a more youthful appearance. You may be a good candidate for blepharoplasty if you:
- Don’t have a medical condition such as allergies that is causing the aesthetic issue you are trying to change
- You are in good overall health
- You have sagging skin, lines or wrinkles that make you uncomfortable with your appearance
- You have realistic expectations about the results of your surgery
In some situations, a functional blepharoplasty may be needed to address issues like excess upper eyelid skin interfering with a person’s vision, in which case it may be covered by insurance.
What to Expect with Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty generally takes 1-3 hours and is typically performed with a local anesthetic and sedation but may be performed under general anesthetic. In most cases, eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure.
In upper eyelid surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in a skin fold. Through that incision they remove excess skin or fat to tighten the lid. In the lower eyelid, an incision is made just below the lower lash line. Here again, excess skin or fat is removed. In a third approach called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, the incision is made inside the lower eyelid. No skin is removed with this technique, and the incision is closed without sutures.
In a standard blepharoplasty, stitches are removed 5-7 days after the procedure. The minimal scarring produced by the surgery is hard to see after three weeks and almost undetectable in six months. Patients typically return to work in 5-7 days and can resume exercising in 2-3 weeks.
Side effects of blepharoplasty may include temporary discomfort, tightness of lids, swelling, bruising and dryness, burning or itching of the eyes. Excessive tearing and sensitivity to light may also occur for the first few weeks after surgery.
