Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty Procedure and Recovery

• A blepharoplasty is typically performed under IV sedation with additional local anesthetic.
• Moore will make a precise incision along the upper eyelid’s natural crease, which helps conceal any potential scarring. He will carefully reshape the eyelid tissues through this incision to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. This will involve removing excess skin and may involve removing bulging fat to achieve a natural and balanced look.
• When skin removal is complete, the incision will be closed with fine sutures, usually removed one to two weeks after surgery. The incision lines are designed to hide within the upper eyelid’s natural crease.

The recovery period following upper eyelid blepharoplasty varies from patient to patient, but it generally follows a predictable pattern:

Initial recovery

During the first week after the procedure, you can expect some bruising and swelling, irritation, dry eyes, and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses, and ointment. Keeping the head elevated when sleeping and applying ice packs every 30 minutes for three to four days after surgery can help to reduce swelling. Patients are advised to protect their eyes from sun exposure by wearing dark sunglasses until her or his wounds have completely healed. Sutures are usually removed within one to two weeks after the procedure. To reduce the potential for infection, you will receive specific instructions about home care and antibiotic ointment application. You will also be advised about how to look for specific concerns at the surgical site and when to call Dr. Moore. Follow Dr. Moore’s post-operative care instructions meticulously. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, rubbing their eyelids, and bending over to minimize swelling and prevent complications. Eye drops may be prescribed to keep the eyes lubricated and prevent dryness.

Full recovery

Full recovery can take several weeks to months. As the healing continues, swelling and bruising will gradually diminish, and the incision lines will fade. Sunglasses are necessary, and Dr. Moore may recommend applying sunscreen to the eyelids.

As with any surgical procedure, upper eyelid blepharoplasty carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, dry eyes, and asymmetry. However, Dr. Moore strives to minimize these risks through meticulous pre-operative preparation and surgical technique.

The results of upper eyelid blepharoplasty can be quite transformative. Removing excess skin and sometimes fat from the eyelids makes the eyes appear more open, alert, and youthful. The reduction in drooping skin helps eliminate the tired or aged look that can develop over time.

• The removal of puffiness and sagging skin creates smoother, more well-defined eyelid contours, which can enhance overall facial appearance and contribute to a more rested and refreshed look.
• The procedure can improve the symmetry of the eyes, especially if one eyelid is more affected by sagging or puffiness than the other. This balanced look enhances facial harmony. Removing excess skin can also make applying eye makeup easier.
• Upper eyelid blepharoplasty typically has long-lasting results. While the natural aging process will continue, most patients enjoy the procedure’s benefits for many years.
• The incisions made during upper eyelid blepharoplasty are strategically placed within the eyelids’ natural creases, making them virtually invisible when the eyes are open. With proper care, scars fade over time and blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty offers substantial aesthetic benefits, including a more youthful, refreshed appearance and potentially improved vision.