Blepharoplasty/
eyelid surgery

Prior to surgery, the cosmetic surgeon marks the areas where incisions will be made. To minimize scarring, these marks follow the natural lines and creases of the upper and lower eyelids. Fat, excess skin and muscle may be removed during the procedure and fine sutures make the incision almost invisible.

This eyelid surgery, called blepharoplasty, can be performed in an office based facility, an outpatient surgical center or hospital. It is usually done on an outpatient basis, not requiring an overnight stay. Local anesthesia is typically used with some intravenous sedation. The procedure can take one to three hours, depending on the areas being treated. In younger patients it is now possible to remove fat from the lower lids by employing a procedure known as transconjunctival blepharoplasty. This procedure consists of making incisions inside the lower eyelid that leave no visible scar. This procedure works best on younger patients whose skin is elastic.

Postoperative pain is usually mild and relieved with oral medications. Exercise is to be avoided, elevation of the head is required while sleeping, as is the use of cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising which subsides in a few weeks. Sutures will be removed within the first week of surgery. Within 10 to 14 days, most people return to work or social situations and feel comfortable in public with makeup covering the incision lines.

The positive effects can last for years and some results may even last for years.

As with any medical procedure, there are certain inherent risks which should be discussed with a qualified physician. Costs vary depending upon the extent of the surgery and areas treated. For confidential personalized information at no cost or obligation, please contact the office of Dr. Paul Pin, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon based in Dallas, Texas.