Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Dr. Monica Halem is a Board Certified Dermatologist specializing in aesthetic cosmetic surgery. Among many cosmetic procedures she offers in her upscale New York City, Manhattan office, her technique in Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) is painless and can be quickly done with little to no downtime.
What is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Dr. Halem specializes in upper eyelid surgery only.
Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.
Specifically, eyelid surgery can treat:
- Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision
- Excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids
In general, good candidates for eyelid surgery include:
- Healthy individuals who do not have a life threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing
- Non-smokers
- Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for eyelid surgery
- Individuals without serious eye conditions
Remember that the eyelids are part of the face. The appearance of a drooping upper lid may also be due to relaxation of the forehead skin and eyebrow. Sometimes a drooping eyelid is caused by stretching of one of the upper eyelid muscles, the levator.
Dr. Halem will evaluate your anatomy thoroughly to determine the causes of your eyelid appearance, and what procedures might best remedy them.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery
During your eyelid surgery recovery, lubricating ointment and cold compresses may be applied, and in some cases your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze, after your procedure is completed.
You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for your eyes, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your overall health, and when to follow-up with Dr. Halem.
Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, irritation or dry eyes, and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses, and ointment. Irritation at the incision sites is also possible.
Be sure to ask Dr. Halem specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.
- Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
- What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
- Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery?
- When will they be removed
- Are stitches removed? When?
- When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
- When do I return for follow-up care?
Eyelid Surgery Recovery & Sun Protection
You must practice diligent sun protection and use darkly tinted sunglasses until the healing process is fully complete.
Eyelid Surgery Procedure Steps
An eyelid surgery procedure includes the following steps:
Step 1 – Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. This procedure is performed at Dr. Halem’s office with local anesthetic.
Step 2 – The incision
The incision lines for eyelid surgery are designed so the resultant scars will be well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region.
The upper eyelid can be corrected through an incision within the natural crease on the eyelid. This allows for removal or repositioning of fat deposits, tightening of muscles, and removal of excess skin.
Step 3 – Closing the incisions
Eyelid incisions typically are closed with:
- Removable sutures
- Skin adhesives
- Surgical tape
Step 4 – See the results
The results of eyelid surgery will appear gradually as swelling and bruising subside to reveal a smooth, better-defined eyelid and surrounding region, and an alert and rejuvenated appearance.
What are the risks of surgery?
As with any surgery, make sure you choose a qualified, experienced surgeon. The complications associated with earlobe surgery are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, as with any procedure, there risks associated with torn earlobe repair is the risk of infection. If such infections occurs it is usually treated with antibiotics.
How do I schedule the procedure?
Dr. Halem and her staff will be happy to discuss eyelid surgery with you. Please call office to schedule a consultation or schedule an appointment online.
