(Eyelid Surgery)

Procedure

Blepharoplasty is to correct droopy upper eyelids by removing the excess fat, wrinkled skin and muscle. Eyelid surgery will eliminate bags under the eyes and tighten the lower eyelid skin and muscle. For upper eyelid surgery generally an incision is hidden within the natural fold of the upper eyelids, and will extend slightly beyond the outside corner into the laugh lines or other existing creases. For the lower eyelid surgery, the incision is often hidden just below the lower lashes. The excess fat will be removed or re-draped eliminating the bags under your eyes.

Length of Procedure

This procedure will take approximately 1 to 3 hours.

Type of Anesthesia

Eyelid surgery is done usually under local anesthesia with sedation, occasionally general anesthesia. This procedure is done on an outpatient basis.

Side Effects

You may experience temporary discomfort; you may feel a "tight" sensation around the eyes with some discomfort that can be controlled with medication. There will be swelling and bruising, the bruising is usually resolved in 7 to 10 days, while the swelling may persists for several weeks. There will be temporary dryness, burning and itching of the eyes, which can be minimized by eye drops. Sensitivity to light and excessive tearing will resolve within the first few weeks.

Risks

Fortunately, significant complications from this procedure are infrequent, and thousands of people undergo this procedure with no complications. However anyone that is considering this procedure should be aware of the benefits and risks. The potential complications of surgery are best discussed on a personal basis with your surgeon. Though some complications that may be discussed are temporary blurred vision, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Slight asymmetry in healing or scarring, difficulty in closing eyes completely, in some cases may require additional surgery.

Recovery

Reading (due to temporary blurred vision) usually can resume after 2 to 3 days. You can usually return back to work in 7 to 10 days. Contact lenses can usually be worn after 2 weeks or more. Strenuous activities and alcohol consumption can resume approximately 3 weeks. The bruising and swelling subsides in several weeks. Stitches are usually removed a few days following surgery.


Reading about your prospective procedure is your first step in gathering information. Once you have decided that the procedure is right for you, a personal consultation is available for your convenience with Dr. H.A. Najafi. This will give you a more detailed explanation of your prospective procedure and answer any questions or concerns you have regarding your surgery. Click on contact us to contact a member or our staff, to schedule your consultation today!