One of the first areas to show the signs of aging is the eyes. Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of our most commonly performed procedures. The appearance around the eyes can make you look tired, sad, angry, or serious. This is sometimes due to puffiness underneath the eyes caused by excess fat bulging, muscle weakness, or skin excess. In the upper eyelids, extra skin can cause a folding of the skin that makes placing eye makeup extremely difficult.
During your examination, it is important to study the entire area of the face to accurately determine the cause of the problem. Each of Dr. Yager’s patients is different in anatomy and desires. Dr. Yager will show you if it is a skin, fat, or muscle problem of the eyelids, or if it is a sagging of the eyebrow. Computer imaging is very helpful in giving you an idea of the changes that are possible. It is also of critical importance to insure that the elasticity of the lower eyelid is sufficient to support the changes we will make, and if not to explain to you additional procedures that can be done to further correct your appearance safely.
There are many advanced techniques in eyelid surgery that we offer, including some with the ability to remove the puffiness under the eyes without sutures. Other techniques help to soften the circles under the eye and to correct differences between the eyes. There are even techniques to soften the vertical lines that appear between the eyebrows through the same approach as upper lid surgery.
The procedures take from 30 minutes to 1 1/2 hours, depending on what is done. An anesthesiologist is present to monitor your heart, lungs, and blood pressure throughout the procedure to insure the highest safety standards. Anesthesia is usually Monitored Sedation, a technique of IV medications that enables you to breathe on your own without seeing, feeling, hearing, or remembering anything. It is the most advanced and safest method available. After the procedure, there is very little discomfort. You are observed in the recovery room for 1-2 hours to insure a safe discharge home.
At home, you will be given a cold solution and some eye pads to use for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling. They are changed every 20 minutes while you are awake. Some patients have sutures that stay in from 3-7 days, and Dr. Yager removes them in the office. You will have a pain medication for any discomfort, but Tylenol is usually sufficient. Antibiotics are also prescribed in some cases. The key to a speedy recovery is rest, keeping the head elevated, and using the compresses. Some patients also like to utilize herbal remedies that can help in recovery, and we are happy to suggest some. A week off from work is suggested. If you have a special function or need to be in the public eye, we suggest a longer period of time before you are camera ready.