EYELIDS

What is eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery is also called blepharoplasty.  One of the first signs of aging in the face happens in the eyelids. Excess skin and fat in this area give the patient a sad, tired and aging look. In this procedure, excess skin and fat is removed from the upper and/or lower eyelids turning back the hands of time and bringing that youthful look back.

Am I a candidate for this procedure?

If you feel you have excess skin and fat in your eyelids, giving you a sad, tired and aging look, a blepharoplasty can help.

What do I need to know about this procedure?

Depending on what the patients need, only the upper eyelids, only the lower eyelids or both upper and lower lids can be operated on.  Upper blepharoplasty is a simple procedure, which can be done under local anesthesia, and it only takes 30 minutes.  When we want to do a lower blepharoplasty or a full quad blepharoplasty (upper and lower), general anesthesia is recommended for patient comfort and it can take about 90 minutes.  Incisions are placed strategically so the scars will be inconspicuous.

Are there risks involved?

Every patient that goes into an operating room for surgery needs to be aware that risks do exist.  However, complications in this specific procedure are extremely rare.  Dr. Mejia will go over all the possible risks of this procedure with you during the initial consultation.  It is very important that you are honest with Dr. Mejia about your medical history and habits for things to go as smooth as possible.

What is the aftercare like?

It is very important to apply cold compresses over your eyes for the first three days after surgery. This helps reduce the swelling and the bruises.  Sleep with head elevated (2-3 pillows) for the first 2-3 nights.  Sun block should be worn daily all over the face over the bruises but not over the incisions. Sun block is used during the day and creams for the bruises should be worn at night.

The conjunctiva (white part of the eye) can be swollen and red. This can last a few weeks post op.  Mild bleeding from the wounds can be seen post op. This is normal.

Dryness of the eyes is normal up to 3 months post op. Eye drops (natural tears) can be used for hydration of the eyes 3 times a day. Normal shower can be taken after surgery. The stitches come off 7 days post-op. No exercise for 2 weeks after surgery.

No sun exposure for a month after surgery (while there is still bruising). Always wear sun block (hopefully for the rest of your life). Avoid smoking for 2 weeks post op.

No make up for 3 weeks.

How much downtime is there?

Patients can usually go back to their normal activities 7 days after surgery.  Final results are seen 3-6 months after surgery when all the swelling disappears.