Blepharoplasty isn’t often thought of as an eye or vision related procedure since it technically treats the eyelids rather than the actual eye. However, because drooping eyelids can interfere with vision if severe enough, Silverstein Eye Centers physicians may suggest this procedure to help maximize your field of vision. By removing excess eyelid skin or fat, your field of vision may increase and you may also look younger, rested, and more alert. Specifically, eyelid surgery treats:
- Upper eyelids: Removal of excess fat deposits that cause a puffy appearance to the upper eyelids.
- Loose or sagging eyelids: Removal of excess tissue that creates a drooping or hooded appearance.
- Lower eyelids: Removal of excess skin along the lower eyelids to remove fine wrinkles.
If you suffer from any of the above conditions, you may be an ideal candidate for blepharoplasty. Ideal eyelid surgery candidates are typically healthy adults who have healthy facial tissue and muscles. Ideal candidates may also need to have a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes for surgery, which will be reviewed with you on behalf of your Silverstein Eye Centers doctor prior to scheduling your procedure. During your consultation, it is important to let your doctor to know if you are taking any blood-thinning medications.
If you suffer from any eye diseases such as glaucoma, dry eyes, or detached retina, you must inform your doctor during your consultation. You must also disclose whether you have any thyroid disorders, or suffer from cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Although these conditions may not necessarily prevent you from being able to undergo blepharoplasty, these factors will be taken into consideration when determining if you are an ideal candidate.
Following blepharoplasty, you will have lubricating ointment and gauze applied to your eyes. You will need a friend or family member to drive you home after surgery, and ideally, to stay with you for the rest of the day. After surgery, you will experience swelling and bruising on the eyelids and may feel irritation similar to dry eyes. Your doctor may prescribe lubricating ointment, antibiotic ointment, or other medications to help you through recovery. You may also be instructed to use cold compresses to help with any swelling and discomfort you experience during your recovery period. Wearing dark-tinted sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and other forms of sun protection will be essential until you are fully healed.
Recovery from surgery will take a few weeks, and it may take up to a full year for your incisions to fully fade. Although the aging process will still continue, your surgery results will be long-lasting. To improve the longevity of your results, use sunscreen on your face, and wear dark sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors.
To learn more about eyelid surgery, call Silverstein Eye Centers today at (816)358-3600 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.