Eyelid Lift Surgery: Santa Barbara Cosmetic Surgery Highlight

Eyes are often the first thing a person notices about another person. They are sometimes referred to as the “window to our soul” because they can convey so many messages without a word being spoken. Sagging skin or fat bulges can make a person’s eyes smaller and can alter a person’s overall appearance making them look tired or unhappy, or both. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is an excellent way to restore a youthful and rested appearance.

Both the upper and lower eyelids can be treated, depending on where the issue is. When treating the upper eyelid, excess/overhanging upper eyelid skin is removed and the inner corner fat bulges are treated. Incisions are made in the natural creases of the eye and hide well when healed. A conservative approach needs to be used for males to avoid too much lid show which gives a feminine appearance to the face.

Treatment of the lower eyelid area addresses dark circles, fat bulges, and skin laxity. Incisions are hidden at the lower edge of the lashes and conservative skin removal will avoid problems such as a round eye look.

If a person has fat bulges but little to no excess skin, a transconjunctival approach is used. Incisions are made in the inner (eyeball) side of the lower lid. Fat is then able to be removed through these small openings. Sutures are usually not required.

General anesthesia is not needed for eyelid lift surgery. Either surgery can be performed under local anesthesia combined with oral sedation alone or together with IV sedation.

Pain is usually minimal and is easily controlled with over-the-counter Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Use of cool compresses and keeping your head elevated with help subside bruising and swelling. Sutures are in place for 7 days and most patients take one week off from work. Returning to contact lenses and eye make-up usually occurs at 10 days post-op and it is advisable to purchase new eye make-up to avoid introducing any bacteria from old products into the healing incisions.

Most patients can resume walking the day after surgery, gradually working up to aerobic exercises at 3 weeks post-op. Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat should be used during all outdoor activities.

Schedule an eyelid surgery consultation with Dr. Perkins by calling 805-563-0000.

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