Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
As the natural focal point of the face, the eyes are one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Symptoms typically include excess upper eyelid skin, baggy lower eyelids, and excess fat deposits around the eyes. These aging features can make a person appear tired, sad, or older than they really are. Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, addresses these issues by removing excess skin and fat from around the eyes to produce a more youthful, rested appearance. Dr. Behmand performs cosmetic eyelid surgery in Nashville, Tennessee.
Eyelid Surgery Procedure
During the initial consultation, Dr. Ramin Behmand, will examine your eyes, and discuss your specific concerns with you. He will suggest a treatment plan based on your examination which will meet your desired aesthetic goals. Here is an overview of what to expect during eyelid surgery:
- Upper Eyelid: As skin ages and stretches, it can cause sagging on the upper eyelids. To correct this, Dr. Behmand will make an incision in the natural crease of the upper eyelid, through which he will remove excess skin and fatty tissue. The natural crease of the eyelid typically well conceals the incision scar, and it may become virtually undetectable once healed.
- Lower Eyelid: For concerns about excess skin, fine wrinkles, and bagginess of the lower eyelids, Dr. Behmand will make an incision just below the lash line of the lower eyelid to remove excess skin and fatty tissue. This procedure reduces puffiness and adds volume to the semicircular hollow beneath the eyes, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance in the lower eye area. If needed, a procedure called canthopexy will tighten the underlying eyelid muscles.
- Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty: Also addressing the lower eyelid, transconjunctival blepharoplasty is a surgical approach that removes or relocates excess lower eyelid fat through an incision made on the interior of the lower eyelid. This method is appropriate for individuals with under-eye fat pockets but minimal excess skin. As this technique requires no external incisions, there are no visible scars.
Eyelid Surgery FAQ’s
- What is a blepharoplasty?
- Blepharoplasty, also called eyelid surgery, is a procedure treating excess skin and fatty tissue of the upper and lower eyelids.
- Can I combine upper and lower eyelid surgery?
- Absolutely. In fact, for many of our patients, combining upper and lower eyelid surgery offers the most optimal results.
- Where is the incision located?
- Each approach utilizes a different method. The incision is placed in the natural crease of the eyelid during upper eyelid surgery. In lower eyelid surgery, the incision is made either along the lash line or on the inside of the lower lid. Regardless of the location, we create the incision to remain as concealed as possible.
- Can BOTOX® Cosmetic provide similar results as blepharoplasty?
- No. BOTOX® Cosmetic is designed to relax the muscles around the eyes, helping reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It cannot correct sagging or excess skin or reduce fatty tissue, which is the purpose of blepharoplasty.
- How long do results last?
- Results of eyelid surgery last many years, depending on various individual factors. The effects, however, are not permanent. Natural aging continues after the surgery. You can often extend the outcome by maintaining good general health following surgery, including sun protection.
- Is there a specific age to consider blepharoplasty?
- Anatomic indicators, not age, determine candidacy for eyelid surgery. We typically see patients between the ages of 30 and 85 years of age requesting this procedure. Our cosmetic surgeries around the eyes are customized to suit each patient.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Dr. Behmand will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions before your procedure. You should expect to take at least one week off work and avoid all strenuous activity, including exercise, for approximately four weeks following surgery.
Some bruising and minor swelling is common post-surgery. While most side effects will typically fade after a few weeks, the skin around your eyes must be treated with extra care for several months. Dr. Behmand advises wearing dark-tinted sunglasses and sunblock during the day to help protect your eyes from sun and wind. Once healed, your eyes should appear younger, fresher, and more alert.
“Although it has only been two weeks since my operation, my results are phenomenal and exceed my expectations! Words cannot justify my feelings. Thank you so much.”