Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
Blepharoplasty is commonly referred to as an eyelid lift, but it’s not actually a lift. The eyelid skin is not pulled up during the procedure. Instead, excess eyelid skin is removed in order to restore the appearance of the eyelids. Fat can also be repositioned in order to improve the look and function.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
- Improves vision by removing excess eyelid skin
- Makes eyes appear younger
- Helps decrease the appearance of bags under the eyes when lower lid surgery is performed
Risks Associated with Blepharoplasty
- Bleeding and/or infection at the surgical sites
- Blurry vision immediately after the surgery
- Decreased functionality of the eyelids
- Discoloration to the eyelids and skin around the eyes
- Eyes that temporarily feel dry or irritated
Just Prior to Surgery
Dr. Ayazifar will provide you with pre surgery instructions prior to your blepharoplasty. In general, you will want to stop taking any medications that cause the blood to thin, including Ibuprofen, Warfarin and naproxen. If you smoke or use tobacco, you’ll want to stop smoking for several weeks prior to the surgery. Smoking can reduce your body’s ability to heal and cause complications after the surgery. You will also need to bring another driver with you on the day of your surgery.
Initial Appointment
An initial appointment is needed to determine if you are a good candidate for blepharoplasty and to have your eyes and eyelids examined. Dr. Ayazifar will also take photos of your eyelids and ask you about your medical history. If it is determined that you would benefit from eyelid surgery, our team at Capital Eye Medical Group will schedule your surgery.
Your Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty is typically performed at an outpatient surgery center. Dr. Mitra operates at numerous locations which allows us to accommodate your surgery needs in a timely manner. After your consultation visit, you will meet with Dr. Mitra at a preop appointment. During this visit, we will review the details of your surgery along with pre and postoperative instructions. You will have to arrange a ride to and from the surgery center on the day of your procedure.
Once you are properly prepared for the surgery, Dr. Ayazifar will begin by making a shallow cut near the top of your eyelids. Then, any excess skin will be removed, muscle and fat if needed. Next, the incision will be closed with a few stitches. The process is repeated for the other eyelid.
If you also need lower lid surgery, this is performed after your upper eyelid surgery. For this procedure, an incision is made just below the lower lashes, which helps hide the surgical scar. Next, excess fat and skin are removed in order to improve the appearance of the lower lid.
After your surgery, you will require less than an hour in recovery unit.. Once you are alert, you will be released to go home. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled a day or two after the surgery to ensure your eyelids are healing correctly and to address any concerns or additional questions about your surgery and the recovery process.
To determine whether eyelid surgery is right for you, give our office a call at (530) 615-3775 (Grass Valley) or (916) 797-6747 (Roseville) to schedule your appointment.
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