The article explores blepharoplasty technique, an aesthetic surgical procedure for eyelid rejuvenation. It analyzes its benefits, suitable candidates and the surgical step-by-step process.
What exactly is blepharoplasty?
The eyelids and periorbital area (the area around the eyes) are among the first facial features that show signs of aging (e.g. eyelid «bags»). Blepharoplasty is essentially a drastic, aesthetic surgical procedure that does not require hospitalization care and is capable of rejuvenating and offering a refreshed appearance to your eyelids, restoring the lost youthfulness from the signs of aging.
With surgical blepharoplasty, excess skin is removed from both the upper and lower eyelids, as well as the removal of accumulated fat in the lower eyelids (bags, dark circles) is achieved.
In which cases is blepharoplasty recommended?
Blepharoplasty surgical procedure is recommended and can be really effective in the following cases:
- in cases of sagging upper eyelid skin (folds that may affect vision)
- in drooping lower eyelids
- in presence of excess fat that resembles swelling in the eyelids
- in «bags» under the eyes (increased periorbital fat)
- in cases of excess skin and wrinkles in the lower eyelids
Who are suitable candidates for blepharoplasty?
In fact, suitable candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals who:
- are bothered by the appearance of their eyelids
- are experiencing functional problems and a part of their visual field is affected by a significant amount of excess skin on the upper eyelid (dermatochalasis)
- do not have a suspicious ophthalmological history with previous eye diseases and conditions
- do not face health problems that may delay or affect healing time period
- have realistic expectations for the postoperative results, according to the discussion – consultation with their eye / eyelid specialist
What is the exact process in blepharoplasty surgery?
Blepharoplasty is performed under local anesthesia, segmented on each eyelid. In special cases, it can be supported under intoxication or general anesthesia. The sutures that are used are extremely thin, and the duration of the procedure is approximately 45 minutes for an experienced surgeon.
Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed through a longitudinal incision along the upper eyelid. Fusiform part (excess fat) of the skin is removed and the incision is closed with sutures, which are removed in a few days. When eyebrow drooping is observed (inadequate or abnormal function of the frontalis muscle), the procedure can be combined with brow lift technique.
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed either with a longitudinal incision below the eyelashes or via an incision just inside the eyelid (when excess skin removal is not required).
Evangelos Lokovitis MD, FEBOphth
Surgeon Ophthalmologist
Specialized in Oculoplastics, Lacrimal & Orbital Surgery
Ophthalmica Institute of Ophthalmology & Microsurgery, Thessaloniki