Eyelid Lift Surgery in Birmingham
Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed for men and women who have excess tissue around the upper or lower eyelids. Dr. Petro may recommend eyelid surgery as a single operation or within a series of procedures for facial rejuvenation.
When to Consider Eyelid Surgery
Most patients who undergo eyelid surgery are older than 35, although it may be recommended for younger individuals in select cases. When loose skin and excess tissue collect around the eyelids, it can make you appear tired or unhappy – even when you’re not. A variety of causes contribute to the formation of eye bags. Heredity, aging and stress can play a role. The skin is also very thin around the eyelids, so it stretches and loses elasticity over time.
If you are bothered by these conditions, you may be a candidate for eyelid surgery:
- Droopy or baggy eyelids
- Loose eyelid skin
- Tired appearance
It may be necessary to consult with your eye doctor before surgery. Some circulatory disorders and medical problems of the eye (dry eye, glaucoma, etc) may be reasons to forgo the procedure.
Your Blepharoplasty: What to Expect
As an outpatient procedure, your eyelid surgery will require 1 – 3 hours. Local anesthesia is administered, which numbs the area(s) around the eyes. You’ll be insensitive to pain but conscious during the surgery.
Incisions follow a natural line along the eyelid and eyelid crease. Dr. Petro separates the skin from the underlying tissue and then trims the excess. A small amount of fatty tissue may also be removed. The doctor then closes the incisions using very fine sutures. One alternative technique used by cosmetic surgeons is called the transconjunctivital technique, which requires an incision inside the lower eyelid.
What Happens After Eyelid Surgery?
Average recovery time from eyelid surgery is about ten days. At the end of the operation, Dr. Petro will lubricate your eyes, apply special ointment and then apply a bandage. Expect some soreness in the eyes as the anesthesia wears off. During the first 24 hours, you will likely experience some discomfort, swelling, blurred vision and bruising. Itching, which peaks after about three days, is another commonly reported effect during recovery from eyelid surgery.
Dr. Petro can explain these details for your individual case, as well as provide specific instructions for the recovery period. You may be advised to keep your head elevated, use cold compresses to reduce swelling, and postpone exercise and contact lens wear for about two or three weeks.
What questions do you have about cosmetic eyelid surgery in Birmingham? Get detailed answers during your personal consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Melanie L. Petro. Contact our office to learn more about scheduling an appointment.