Eyelid Surgery to Correct Droopy Eyed Objects (blepharosplasty) was the medical term first used in the late 19th Century when it was the first technique that corrected deformities caused in part by eyelid cancer. Following the World Wars and the increased need for cosmetic reconstructive surgery, surgeons started developing new technologies. Surgery is not the only option to fix wrinkles or puffy, drooping eyes. Dermal Filler Injections or Laser Surgery can sometimes repair these areas and improve the patient’s look, but most treatments are temporary. A drooping lid, also known as ptosis (or drooping muscle), is a condition that occurs when the muscles of the eyelids are weak or damaged. It is possible that this condition will impair your peripheral vision. If so, you may need plastic reconstructive surgical procedures to help improve it. This is only true for the upper lids. Surgery done on the lower eyeslids tends to be purely cosmetic.
Patients who undergo this procedure are typically at least 35. In elective eyelid procedures, age is very important because with time the skin under the eyes can sag. Many Asian patients are seeking eyelid surgery for a raised upper eyelid. The candidate should be in overall good health. Diabetes, high blood-pressure, and cardiovascular disease are all disqualifying factors. Although eye disorders such as glaucoma or dry eyes may not disqualify the patient from undergoing surgery, these conditions can have serious complications. Plastic surgeons who are board certified perform outpatient surgeries under local, but sometimes they will opt for general anesthesia. The procedure can also be combined with other surgeries such as a face lift or browlift to reduce facial sagging.
For cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid surgeries, the surgery usually takes between 1 to 3 hours. To remove any excess skin or fat, the surgeon makes an incision at the natural skin line. This method allows for the surgeons to reduce the fat and skin in the affected areas without leaving any visible scars. A very fine stitch will be used to close the wound. This can then be taken out a few days after the operation. Up to a full week will pass before swelling subsides. It is safe to wear makeup 10 days after the surgery. It takes at least two weeks to recover fully.
Upper and lower eyelids can look dramatically better after an eyelid procedure. It is important to speak with a qualified plastic surgeon in order to find out if you are eligible and see their before and afterwards results. Some cases are considered as reconstructive procedures, while cosmetic patients will also see desirable results.