Blepharoplasty
in Novi, Michigan
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Often referred to as an “eyelid surgery” or “eyelid lift,” blepharoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that enhances the eyelids’ appearance. Blepharoplasty can target the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both, offering a rejuvenating solution for sagging, puffy, or tired eyes. By removing excess skin, fat, and muscle, this procedure can enhance the appearance of the eyes. Additionally, eyelid procedures can address functional issues by lifting droopy eyelids and improving eyesight by removing obstructions from the patient’s field of vision.
Eyelid Surgery Before & After
Different Types of Blepharoplasty
There are two primary types of blepharoplasty: upper eyelid lift and lower eyelid lift. Each targets a different area of the eye and addresses distinct issues.
Upper Eyelids
Upper blepharoplasty addresses concerns related to the upper eyelid, such as drooping lids, sagging skin, and excess fat. It involves an incision along the eyelid’s natural crease to remove or reposition fat, tighten muscles, and eliminate excess skin.
Lower Eyelids
Lower blepharoplasty addresses cosmetic and functional concerns around the lower eye area. The surgical approach mainly depends on the patient’s specific needs, typically reflected in the type of incision made: subciliary or transconjunctival.
Subciliary Incision
Using the subciliary approach, surgeons make an incision below the lash line on the outer surface of the lower eyelid, granting direct access to excess skin, fat, and muscle that cause under-eye bags or wrinkles. This technique’s notable advantage is its capability to remove or reposition fat and excess skin, benefiting patients with significant skin redundancy or wrinkling. The incision is closed with sutures following adjustments, resulting in a faint scar hidden beneath the lash line.
Transconjunctival Incision
The transconjunctival approach for lower lid blepharoplasty involves an incision inside the lower lid, making it invisible externally. This technique, best for addressing under-eye bags from fat deposits, allows surgeons to adjust or remove fat without leaving a visible scar. The incision’s inner location minimizes the risk of altering the eyelid’s shape, but it can’t remove excess skin, making it more suitable for younger patients with good skin elasticity.
Subciliary Incision
Using the subciliary approach, surgeons make an incision below the lash line on the outer surface of the lower eyelid, granting direct access to excess skin, fat, and muscle that cause under-eye bags or wrinkles. This technique’s notable advantage is its capability to remove or reposition fat and excess skin, benefiting patients with significant skin redundancy or wrinkling. The incision is closed with sutures following adjustments, resulting in a faint scar hidden beneath the lash line.Transconjunctival Incision
The transconjunctival approach for lower lid blepharoplasty involves an incision inside the lower lid, making it invisible externally. This technique, best for addressing under-eye bags from fat deposits, allows surgeons to adjust or remove fat without leaving a visible scar. The incision’s inner location minimizes the risk of altering the eyelid’s shape, but it can’t remove excess skin, making it more suitable for younger patients with good skin elasticity.What to Expect During Your Blepharoplasty Procedure?
During an upper lid blepharoplasty, Dr. Lakin will skillfully make an incision following the natural fold of your eyelid. This incision allows him to remove or reposition excess fat and loose skin proficiently and, if necessary, tighten lax muscles. This transformative procedure can significantly enhance the appearance of your eyes, and in cases where sagging upper eyelids obstruct vision, it can also improve your sight. For this surgery, patients may undergo either local anesthesia or general anesthesia, providing the option to be awake or asleep during the procedure while ensuring the targeted region is adequately numbed and maximizing the patient’s relaxation.
During a lower eyelid blepharoplasty by Dr. Lakin, the incision is strategically placed either just below the lash line (subciliary approach) or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach). Dr. Lakin will skillfully remove or redistribute excess fat to address under-eye bags and may also remove excess skin to reduce wrinkles and enhance overall appearance. Lower eyelid surgery requires general anesthesia, inducing a sleep-like state to ensure patients remain comfortable.
Combining upper and lower blepharoplasty involves addressing the lower and upper lids in a single surgical procedure. This comprehensive approach allows for a harmonious rejuvenation of the entire eye area, addressing concerns such as drooping eyelids, under-eye bags, excess skin, and wrinkles. In addition, combining these procedures allows patients to achieve a more balanced and younger-looking appearance. Similar to the lower eyelids, this procedure requires general anesthesia — a sleep-like state to ensure patients remain comfortable.
Procedures That Can Be Combined With Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can yield significant results, but it is often combined with other procedures for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Some other facial procedures that can be coupled with blepharoplasty for more extensive results are:
- Ptosis repair
It corrects drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid caused by weakened or stretched muscles. It involves tightening or reattaching the muscles to restore the eyelid’s proper position and functionality, resulting in a more alert and youthful appearance.
The facelift surgery complements blepharoplasty by addressing sagging and wrinkles in the lower face and neck, providing a balanced rejuvenation.
- Facial fat grafting
Botox complements blepharoplasty by targeting fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, giving the face a smoother and fresher appearance.
Morpheus8 enhances blepharoplasty results by improving skin tone, texture, and tightness. It also reduces wrinkles and promotes a youthful look.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post-operative Care
After your upper or lower blepharoplasty, it is typical to experience bruising and swelling, and your eyes may be covered with gauze. If general anesthesia is administered, it is normal to feel groggy. Once at home, it is important to rest with your head elevated to minimize swelling. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort. You may also be prescribed eye drops or ointments to keep your eyes lubricated and alleviate dryness or itching.
Timeline for Recovery
The recovery from blepharoplasty varies between individuals, but a common trend has emerged. Typically, patients begin to feel improved within a few days post-surgery, with significant swelling and bruising diminishing by the end of the first two weeks. In addition, suturesare typically removed after one week, marking a key recovery milestone. As such, a typical time frame for returning to work or usual activities is about one-week post-surgery.
Tips for a Speedy and Smooth Recovery
- Rest
- Stay Hydrated
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
- Protect Your Eyes From the Sun
- Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions
What is the cost of Blepharoplasty?
Benefits of Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty
- Reduces under-eye bags and puffiness
- Removes excess fat and loose eyelid skin
- Improves vision and functionality
- Creates a more alert and rejuvenated look
- Enhances facial symmetry and proportion
- Boosts self-confidence and enhances facial appearance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do the results of upper and lower blepharoplasty last?
How long do the results of upper and lower blepharoplasty last?
Can upper eyelid surgery correct droopy upper eyelids?
How does blepharoplasty help with excess skin on the eyelids?
What does upper eyelid surgery involve, and how does it differ from lower eyelid surgery?
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you’re seeking the expert guidance of Dr. Lakin or Dr. Ozolins, or have a clear idea of your needs, scheduling a consultation is the obvious and easy next step. Meet and sit down with one of Michigan’s premier plastic surgeons and start your journey into illuminating the best version of yourself.
