If the idea of having surgery on your eyes scares you, you’re not alone. The good news is, many patients are surprised at how simple an eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, surgery actually is. In fact, it was the fourth most popular cosmetic surgery last year, and for good reason.
This surgery can help repair drooping eyelids and bags under the eyes. Because drooping eyelids can affect vision, the surgery is done for both cosmetic and medical reasons.
First, anesthesia is administered to help make you more comfortable during the procedure. Then, Dr. Davis uses a scalpel or laser to cut the skin in the natural crease of the eye. Then a cut is made around the extra fold of skin, and the extra skin is removed. Depending on each situation, excess fat deposits can be removed or repositioned and the muscles can be tightened at this stage. Finally, everything is sutured back together. Most of the time this procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery, meaning patients are free to go home the same day.
After the procedure it’s normal to experience:
- Watery eyes
- Swollen, numb eyelids
- Blurry vision from the ointment
- Sensitivity to light
- Bruising on and around the eyes
- Double vision
To help with healing, you may apply ice to the eye for 10 minutes an hour the first day and four times a day for the next few days. You should avoid any strenuous activities for several days after surgery to protect your eyes, which will be more sensitive at this time. You also won’t be able to wear contacts for about two weeks after the surgery.
To find out if you’re a good candidate for a blepharoplasty, call Dr. Davis at the Advanced Eyelid Surgery Center today at 817-778-4444.
