Blepharoplasty is a procedure that can give you a bright, refreshed look with very little downtime.  Commonly called “eyelid surgery“, blepharoplasty is used to remove excess skin of the upper and lower eyelids and protruding fat pads of the lower lids, often called “bags”. It is usually the first cosmetic surgical procedure to be done on the face. Some patients have just the upper lids or lower lids done while others require upper and lower blepharoplasty. Eyelid surgery can be done alone or with other facial surgery such as:

• Facelift

• Neck Lift

• Chemical Peel

• Laser Resurfacing

• Fat Transfer

• Injectable Fillers

Blepharoplasty is mostly done as an outpatient procedure, under local anesthesia combined with intravenous sedation or a light general anesthetic. Iced compresses are used for 24 hours after the procedure. There is minimal discomfort. Results can take up to three months to fully mature. Consult your plastic surgeon for risks and details of your individual eyelid surgery.

Once you decide to have blepharoplasty surgery, some helpful tips include:

Have extra pillows or a recliner to keep your head elevated for the first few days

Have soft ice packs ready in the freezer

Download music or books on tape in order to keep ice on your eyes for the first 24 hours

Have water near you to stay hydrated

Make sure you have your glasses as you will not be able to wear contact lenses

Have big sunglasses around

Purchase Arnica pills to help with bruising and swelling

Be sure to follow all instructions provided by your plastic surgeon.