Blepharoplasty Treatment | Bergman Folkers Plastic Surgery Bergman Folkers Plastic Surgery > Blepharoplasty Treatment Blepharoplasty Treatment Blepharoplasty refers to cosmetic surgery of the eyelids and related areas. Many people turn to blepharoplasty to correct a number of common issues, either with the appearance or the function of their eyelids. If you’re considering blepharoplasty, our Iowa cosmetic surgery team at Bergman Folkers Plastic Surgery will be happy to answer all of your questions regarding this eyelid procedure. Reasons for Blepharoplasty Our eyes are our key to seeing the world and all it has to offer, so any problems with your eyelids that inhibit your ability to see can be especially frustrating. Fortunately, blepharoplasty exists to help us see things the way they were meant to be seen, and can also help others see our eyes their beauty as well.

Blepharoplasty can help with: Eyelid disfiguration, deformation Eyelid Lift | Chicago Northfield Facial Plastic Surgery Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Surgery Lower eyelid surgery, also referred to as lower eye lift or lower blepharoplasty, can rejuvenate and refresh puffy, tired looking eyes, dramatically improving their appearance, prominence and contour, without altering their natural expression. As we age, bone and skin changes may result in the eyes looking sunken, tired, puffy, and wrinkled, conveying an angry, sad, sleep-deprived or weary expression that may not reflect our inner mood or state of being; the delicate structures of bone, skin and tissues of the eyelid area provide the expression of our mood and emotions. The aim of eye rejuvenation is to subtly refine these structures of tissue, bone, fat and skin that have become out of balance by skillfully removing, or re-contouring these tissues to restore the harmony that was once there.

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Background Fatty deposits located in the lower eyelid area, can cause unattractive puffy bags, pouches and bulges, commonly referred to as “bags under the eyes.” They may occur alone or in combination with the sagging of excess skin in the same lower eyelid area. Puffy bags under the eyes is a result of an inherited tendency toward too much fat for perfect contour, as well as an increased visual laxity of the retaining skin structure. Because it is structural fat, diet or weight loss will have no effect. The most effective procedure for lower eyelid surgery is one which removes a selected and controlled amount of fat through discrete and hidden incisions. Eyelid Surgery Chicago Transconjunctival Techniques There are a few different techniques that may be used for lower eyelid surgery – more technically called a lower blepharoplasty procedure. The older, more common approach involves inserting the incision under the eyelashes and subsequently removing the fat and sometimes skin. This method has reported some complications with vision. This technique is very effective in correcting the lower eyelid; however there are risks involved with this technique, and the visible incision leaves a small white scar.

Chicago-based, board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Anthony Geroulis helped pioneer an approach to lower eyelid surgery called the “transconjunctival technique.” This approach, that accesses the fatty deposits of the lower eye from the interior skin side of the eyelid, leaves no visible incision. Dr. Geroulis utilizes this approach and has had incredible results. “This technique is, to the best of my knowledge, one of the safest techniques in the hands of a competent surgeon with no reported cases or any complications with vision,” explains Dr. Geroulis, clinical professor of surgery at University of Chicago Medical Center. During transconjunctival technique lower eyelid surgery Chicago procedure, the fatty pads or bags are expertly removed; a selected and controlled amount of fat is taken out and the skin re-contours to accomplish a natural appearance in overall eye rejuvenation. This unique and technically advanced approach, was further developed and refined by Dr. Anthony Geroulis, professor of surgery at the University of Chicago Medical Center. This innovative approach to lower blepharoplasty Chicago style procedures, performed for patients throughout Illinois, has earned renowned status across the country and overseas.

It requires both a mastery of surgical skill in facial cosmetic surgery and experience in artistic creativity in order to achieve natural looking results. A lower lid blepharoplasty with the transconjunctival approach, if performed expertly, can be one of the most discrete, effective and rewarding procedures for face rejuvenation, dramatically enhancing the attractiveness and shape of the eyes for a smoother, more refreshed and relaxed look. In some men and women, diagnosis of a lower blepharoplasty may be accompanied with fat repositioning. This technique is applied when the protrusion of lower eyelid fat is associated with a depression or hollowing over the cheekbone, producing a circle effect. If the fat is removed this may accentuate the hollowed and “depleted” look to the entire eye area. Instead of the removal of fat, it is expertly re-positioned to accomplish a more evenly balanced, smoother and flatter result for the skin around the lower eye. In such cases, repositioning or redistributing the existing fat in this area, reduces the bags and fills in the depressions, in one procedure. With this technique the surrounding eye area retains its youthful fullness.

With a lower blepharoplasty procedure with fat-repositioning, the incision is made inside the lower eyelid and is therefore not visible. Other corrective procedures may be performed at the same time as the re-balancing or removal of fat. With the aging process and years of facial movement the muscle (known as the orbicularis muscle) that lies beneath the eyelid skin may weaken, losing its tone and can manifest itself in unattractive bulges beneath the skin. Specialist techniques for correction will include the trimming and tightening of this muscle to enhance support and result in naturally looking, more youthful eyes, which is a common procedure that patients request at Dr. Geroulis’ surgical facility on the NorthShore. A lower eye lift Chicago surgery with either fat removal or repositioning, may be performed individually or in conjunction with other face procedures.

Popular and effective treatments that tend to be combined with a lower eyelid blepharoplasty may include either an eye lift where there is excess skin weighing down on the upper lids, a resurfacing physician peel, laser treatment to obtain smoother skin around the eye area with less wrinkles, or a face and neck lift to address excess sagging skin in the areas of the cheek, jaw line and neck area. During your consultation for lower eye lift surgery, whether it be in Chicago, Northfield or Hoffman Estates, Dr. Geroulis will evaluate the approach and technique most appropriate for your facial structure. What To Expect Lower eyelid surgery is a relatively short and painless procedure – patients can return to work and their other normal routines just a few days following the surgery. Typically, patients return to Dr. Geroulis the day following their procedure and a few more times in the following weeks. Bruising and swelling can last about a week, but the worst of it is usually over after 48 hours. Many individuals combine lower eyelid surgery with another facial rejuvenation procedure such as a facelift or forehead eyebrow lift.

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty Surgery The role of the cosmetic surgeon is to harmonize a person’s visual perception of their face with the youth they feel on the inside. An Upper Blepharoplasty procedure, also known as Upper Eyelid Surgery or Upper Eye Lift procedure utilizes delicate surgical techniques that allow men and women to modify the appearance and signs of aging around the eyes, without disturbing the natural expression of the whole face. Upper Blepharoplasty Target Area Eyelid drooping happens when there is an excessive amount of upper eyelid skin due to a loss of elasticity. Puffy upper eyelids may be the result of an inherited tendency to have excess fat in this area combined with a visual laxity of skin. Because it is structural fat, any diet or weight loss will have no effect in this area. The most effective procedure is upper eyelid surgery which removes a selected and controlled amount of fat through discrete and hidden incisions. Upper eyelid surgery is an eye rejuvenation procedure that addresses the excess skin of the upper lid that begins to droop and sag as we age. While the amount of excess skin could be related to genetics, it is often something that affects individuals as they age and their skin loses some elasticity.

Sometimes, men or women have puffy upper eyelids which very well may be a result of their genetic make up. Upper blepharoplasty surgery addresses the structural fat of the upper eyelid, the kind that cannot be altered or improved by diet or exercise, in order to open up the eyes and restore balance and harmony to the face. An upper eyelid surgery can improve the entire facial structure: patients look younger, happier and more vibrant. Upper eye lift is typically the first step or intervention against early signs of aging. Patient as young as 35 years old undergo this eye rejuvenation procedure. It is impossible to say the “right” time for someone to undergo upper eyelid surgery because everyone’s eyes and entire face age at a different rate. Upper Eye Lift Technique A finely performed blepharoplasty procedure removes excess skin from the upper eyelids, corrects a drooping eye appearance and restores the natural oval shape to the eye in one procedure.

When the eyelids are too heavy, if there are large folds of skin that weigh on the eyelids and impede the opening of the eye, or when the excess upper eyelid skin is accentuated by an internal pocket of fat that causes an unattractive swelling, a tired, sad and weary appearance may result, permanently. An upper eyelid surgery also known as upper eye lift procedure or blepharoplasty can dramatically improve the appearance, prominence and contour or the eyes, restoring a happier, more vibrant expression to the eyes and a rejuvenated appearance to the overall face. What to expect during Upper Eyelid Surgery Upper eyelid surgery is a short procedure. It only lasts about an hour and can make an enormous difference to the overall balance of the face. The procedure is not painful and at the most there is mild discomfort. Swelling and bruising are the side effects which may last for about a week, although they diminish greatly after just a few short days. Many individuals who are patients of Dr. Geroulis combine the procedure with a lower eyelid surgery, facelift or forehead eyebrow lift for even better results.

Surgeon Requirements An blepharoplasty surgery demands a surgeon with an excellent knowledge of the orbital zone and eyelids, a mastery of operatory technique and a meticulous, preoperative analysis of the issues to be addressed. Considered the first anti aging intervention for men and women, this procedure is popular for those from 35 to 80 years of age: eyelids are the first facial feature to display signs of facial aging. During your consultation for upper eye lift surgery, whether it be in Chicago, Northfield or Hoffman Estates, Dr. Geroulis will evaluate the approach and technique most appropriate for your facial structure. Blepharoplasty Blepharoplasty Filed under: Blepharoplasty - Pinned | Spread the word ! For many people cosmetic surgery isn’t simply something they want to do, but something that can greatly increase the quality of their life. Throughout the whole of human history, people have been pushing technologies limits to make themselves better for a wide variety of reasons.

Some people train and tan in order to get that sleek physique that they have been lusting after in magazines for the last twenty years while others undergo radical surgeries to remove the fat from their bodies and have their stomachs banded so they can lead a healthier lifestyle. However, there is one very commonly overlooked part of the body that can easily be made to look younger and healthier and actually improve vision acuity. Blepharoplasty is a surgery in which the eyelids of the patient are worked on in order to reduce puffiness, droopiness, wrinkles and even discoloration. All of these different issues can have a different result on the vision of the person and most of them will have an effect on how the person views themselves and can create psychological and self-image issues. Because of the problems that can arise, this relatively simple and fast surgery is something that, if needed, is no worse than going to the gym every day. Nevertheless, there are no surgeries that are without their risks and the biggest issue with blepharoplasty is that, in the event of something going wrong or an accident of some sort, the result could be blindness in one or possibly both eyes.

This is an unlikely risk, but it does highlight just how important it is to find a doctor that you can trust and that has a solid track record before you go under the knife. Shopping around and ensuring that the surgeon is approved by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) can help make your surgery much easier on your mind, body and your wallet. (4 votes) Things To Consider Before Cosmetic Surgery Filed under: Surgery Procedures - 26 Mar 2013 | Spread the word ! Cosmetic surgical interventions have become really popular nowadays. Though a cosmetic surgery, your appearance can be improved, helping you achieve the beauty you have always dreamed about. However, it is important to know that cosmetic surgeries are not for everyone. If you consider undergoing such a medical intervention, you should first make sure that you are properly informed regarding all aspects it supposes. Why cosmetic surgery? Cosmetic surgery is considered to be the best option for individuals who are willing to make a change in their appearance or improve their physique. So, in case you are not satisfied with a certain aspect of your body or look, considering cosmetic surgery is a great choice.

Blepharoplasty Facts Filed under: Blepharoplasty - 27 Nov 2012 | Spread the word ! Blepharoplasty is a surgery during which excess skin, muscle and fat is removed with the purpose to repair droopy eyelids. The medical intervention is common among elderly people. Aging causes eyelids to stretch, which is actually determined by the weakness of the muscles supporting them. Consequently, excess fat is formed below, or abode, the eyelids. This skin makes patients look older, but in the most severe cases it can actually cause impair of the vision. Blepharoplasty is usually recommended in such cases, to repair vision and improve lifestyle. However, the intervention can also be recommended for cosmetic reasons. All You Should Know About Recovery After Blepharoplasty Filed under: Blepharoplasty - 10 Jul 2012 | Spread the word ! Source Blepharoplasty is a surgery performed on the eyelid. This actually is a surgical modification of the eyelid during which excess tissue is removed or repositioned.

The surgery can be performed in cases patient need to be submitted to the procedure due to a health problem, but it can also be a cosmetic surgery. In fact, in most cases the surgery is performed with cosmetic reasons. During this medical intervention wrinkling of the skin can be decreased, while the lower eyelid bags can be reduced. However, before making up your mind about being submitted to such an intervention it is important to be careful at all risks and know everything about the recovery process. Recovery will most commonly take a few weeks. Naturally, recovery will be dependent on the way each patient cures. In some cases it can take up to a few days, but in most situations recovery will last weeks. Patients will be told which are the main steps of home recovery and what should they do to increase the rapidity of this process. They are most likely going to receive painkillers to ease their pain due to the incisions. During the first two days after the surgery, patients are going to also receive an ointment treatment. During this period of time painkillers will recommended to all patients. Patients may also be advised to keep some ice on the eyes, with the purpose to reduce bruising and swelling.

Preventing infections and complications of the surgery, but also helping curing the incisions much quicker is the most important purpose of recovery. Medications can also prevent bruises and swelling after surgery, so they are surely going to be recommended in the great majority of cases. Medications can be different for different days of the recovery, meaning that they will be administered depending on the level in which injuries are healed. Stitches are most commonly removed about two days after the surgery. However, there may be situations in which your doctor will decide to prolong that period of time, naturally depending on the way each patient cures after blepharoplasty. Wearing constant lenses after the surgery is prohibited and patients should ask their doctors’ advice to find out when it is the right moment to start using them once again. Scars may remain visible for a period of time. They can be well hidden until curing, but you should know that the risk of scars not fading will always be present. (No Ratings Yet) Filed under: Blepharoplasty Risks And Recovery - 16 May 2012 | Spread the word ! All surgeries and medical interventions suppose the existence of some risks. Naturally, blepharoplasty makes no exception.

This is a medical intervention that supposes the removal of the fat surrounding the muscles and tendons. It can actually be described as a cosmetic surgery, being almost in all cases made with cosmetic reasons. The procedure supposes external incisions through which fat will be removed. Before the intervention will be performed, patients should be aware of the main risks and the possible side effects that such a surgery can suppose. One of the most common ones, which can actually be a risk in all kind of surgeries, is a possible negative reaction to the anesthesia. Infections can also be formed after the medical procedure. Other side effects that can be experienced by patients who undergo surgery for eye fat removal include temporary numbness of the eyelid skin, dry and irritated eyes, impaired eyelid function, but also injury to eye muscles. These are the main risks of such a surgery when it comes to the potential damage that can be caused to the eye. A really small risk, but still a risk, is linked to blindness, which can occur because of bleeding behind the eye. Other eye surgery risks are temporary vision changes, such as the existence of double vision, but also scarring.

Scarring can be an important issue for many individuals, as scars are visible and in case they are not healed properly, they will always remain below the eye area, where the intervention has been performed. Before undergoing a blepharoplasty intervention, you have to be aware of all risks that such a surgely may suppose. Negative reaction to the anesthetic, but also improper healing can lead to bad reactions and various complications. Only after knowing all risks, you can decide on whether you want to continue the procedure and move on to be submitted to a surgery or not. The recovery process after this medical procedure can take up to a few weeks. Respect your doctor’s recommendations and the risk of complications to occur will be much decreased. Although you will not remain in hospital during this period of time, you will receive indications from specialists on how to perform recovery care at home. In most cases painkillers are going to be recommended to ease the pain. In case any type of infections and complications are experienced by the patient, scheduling a doctor’s appointment is a must as soon as they are first felt.

(2 votes) Blepharoplasty – The Key Of A Youthful Look Filed under: Blepharoplasty - 12 Apr 2012 | Spread the word ! If you want to look young and beautiful even after you passed a certain age, you should take care especially of your eyes, because they are those showing your true age. If your eyes got puffy and you have wrinkles around them, you may start taking in consideration a blepharoplasty. The blepharoplasty is a surgery that can modify your eyelids, in order to help you get rid of the fat and reinforce your muscles and tendons. The blepharoplasty is not only used as a cosmetic surgery, but also as a functional one in some cases. Blepharoplasty, as we know it, is done since the first half of the 19th century and the doctor that introduced it, Karl Ferdinand von Grafe, used it to repair the signs of eyelids cancer that his patients had. Actually, surgeries similar to blepharoplasty were done since about 3,000 years ago by the ancient Egyptians.

The ancient Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans used several surgery techniques very alike to the blepharoplasty that is performed today to keep their youth and to make sure they do not have wrinkles or other signs on the face, near the eyes. The only time when these surgeries were prohibited was in the Middle Ages, when it was considered that people that take care of their beauty and youth are not enough spiritual. In the more recent years, after World War I, the blepharoplasty became very popular, because many women wanted to tend to their looks. If you want to improve your aspect, the blepharoplasty is a great choice. Although there are numerous non-surgical alternatives to blepharoplasty, none of them work really great. Through blepharoplasty, all the fat is removed and your eyes will look wonderful. A very important things is that after such a procedure you will have no external scars. Thanks to the blepharoplasty, you can look young and fresh once again. After it, there is a short period of recovery of a few weeks, but after that you will be as new and you will not feel a thing.

The blepharoplasty is a great cosmetic procedure and it would be a pity not to take advantage of it if you desire it and afford it. (2 votes) Things To Know About Blepharoplasty Filed under: Blepharoplasty - 22 Mar 2012 | Spread the word ! A blepharoplasty is medical intervention which aims to eliminate excess tissue. Most commonly, the blepharoplasty is a surgery made on the eyelid to remove excessive skin or fat. The blepharoplasty is performed with the purpose to cure certain health problems that people may develop, but it can also be a cosmetic surgery. Naturally, the purpose of blepharoplasty as a cosmetic intervention, is to help individuals look better and much younger. Actually, in the great majority of cases, the blepharoplasty is made with cosmetic purposes, to eliminate wrinkles. The intervention is not considered to be a dangerous one and it most commonly lasts about three hours to complete. Complications are not generally formed after or during a blepharoplasty, but patients should be aware of all risks before being submitted to the medical procedure.

So, complications can be formed because of dry eyes, but also due to a laxity of the lower lid margin. Risks of blepharoplasty include temporary numberless of the eyelid skin, dry and irritated eyes, but also temporary vision changes, including here double vision. However, these are not the only risks that can be associated with a blepharoplasty. Other common risks include impaired eyelid function, scarring, but also severe injury to eye muscles. A risk of blepharoplasty, which however occurs in few cases, is blindness. Blindness can be caused by bleeding behind the eye. Recovery after blepharoplasty will most likely last one to two weeks, but there also are cases in which recovery lasts up to several months. In fact, until the whole area is perfectly cured and all the bruises of the intervention are eliminated, several months will pass. A doctor will keep the patient under supervision until the final results of blepharoplasty become stable. All patients who have been under a blepharoplasty will receive the needed instructions for the best home care treatment. Painkillers can also be recommended with the purpose to decrease pain.

Medication can accelerate the curing process of a patient and it can help as a type of additional treatment to surgery. A doctor will establish the right recovery scheme for each particular case. (No Ratings Yet) Blepharoplasty Requires Informing Yourself Filed under: Blepharoplasty - 15 Feb 2012 | Spread the word ! Looking incredibly good and younger is one of the most important desires that people have. They are very influenced by magazines and what mass media presents, so it is a trend to look good and to dress as sensual and provocative as you can. Plastic surgery is one of the most used techniques to improve the way we look and even young girls support it. One of the first thing we see at someone are the eyes, so if they do not look nice and the eyelids have wrinkles and the skin is not so firm as it used to be, then we may opt for a blepharoplasty. Blepharoplasty refers to getting rid of the puffiness, dropping eye lids, as well as discolorations. Wrinkles can also be removed with the help of the blepharoplasty, so all these changes will make that person look younger, fresh and more expressive.

Although blepharoplasty is not a major surgical intervention, there are still some risks as in any other process of this type. If the doctor will not do its job great, any mistake will be a disaster for the way someone looks like. There were cases when the results of blepharoplasty made the patient look worse than before, so it is good to choose a professionally trained doctor, with great previous results, so you will be safe. Before having a blepharoplasty, it is also extremely important to search details about the hospital where the medical procedure will take place. This way, you will find out more about the staff, the devices and tools they use, how the rooms look like, if they are clean and so on. All these details are very important to your security and comfort. It is not easy to have the courage to have such an intervention, no matter if is blepharoplasty or anything else, so inform yourself to be sure that there will be no negative consequences. Swelling is the effect of the blepharoplasty, but do not worry. There are special creams that will be prescribed to you to get rid of that and after, you will look great.

(No Ratings Yet) The Recovery After Blepharoplasty Filed under: Blepharoplasty - 19 Jan 2012 | Spread the word ! After a surgery as important as blepharoplasty, you need a period to recover and to achieve that wonderful look you hoped to get when deciding for such an intervention. So, before committing to a blepharoplasty, you should know exactly what will happen in the recovery period and what should you expect. The process of recovery after blepharoplasty takes a few weeks and your doctor will teach you how to take care of yourself all this time. Of course, to ease the pain you will have due to incisions, you will receive painkillers to help you surpass this period. During the first two days after the blepharoplasty is performed, you will receive an ointment treatment to keep the area hydrated. You could also use ice pads to stop the bruising and swelling of your eyes. Another important thing is to keep your head higher than the rest of your body. You could even receive a prescription for eye drops in order to avoid infection.

To accelerate your recovery, the doctor will probably prescribe you some medication for you to take the rest of this time after the blepharoplasty. One of the most use medications after blepharoplasty is Wobenzym, used to moderate swelling. This is administrated in the third day after the blepharoplasty. Similar to Wobenzym is Auriderm, but this must be used 10 days before the surgery and for some period after the surgery, twice a day. Of course, there are other medicines similar to these, but your surgeon will know what is the best for you. In the first week after the blepharoplasty, you will experience excessive tearing, sensitivity to lightning and also double or blurred vision. These symptoms will last for two or three weeks. In the first week after the blepharoplasty you may even read or watch TV and after the first 10 days you may return to work. Scars from your blepharoplasty will still be visible, but after the first 10 days you are aloud to use make-up, so you can cover them.

After the healing is completed, small scars from the blepharoplasty still remain, but fortunately, these are well hidden and they totally fade in time. (4 votes) What is eyelid surgery? | Eyelid Surgery | American Society of Plastic Surgeons What is eyelid surgery? Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Surgery can be performed on either the upper or lower lids, or both. Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.

Specifically, eyelid surgery can treat: Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision Excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids Bags under the eyes Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid Next: Eyelid surgery cost Blepharoplasy | Eyelid surgery Blepharoplasty Eyelid surgery Blepharoplasty, more commonly called an eyelid lift or cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a procedure designed to remove droopy, puffy or baggy skin deposits from the area around the eyes. These skin deposits tend to make the patient look older or appear tired. Asian eyelid surgery is a common variation of this procedure; it creates a supratarsal eyelid crease for a single-lidded appearance. This is also called double eyelid surgery. Cost of Blepharoplasty It's difficult to estimate the cost of eyelid plastic surgery because it involves a reduction in muscle, skin and fatty tissues surrounding the eye. The full of extent of the surgery will vary from patient to patient and even from one eye to another.

However, the typical blepharoplasty cost ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. These costs include surgeon, facility and anesthesia fees. As with other types of cosmetic surgery, this procedure is generally not covered by health insurance plans unless it is related to ptosis or another medical condition. Patient Evaluation Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are emotionally stable, physically fit and knowledgeable about the procedure, with realistic expectations for its outcome. Patients should be at least 35 years of age, but exceptions are possible. If you suffer from hypothyroidism, glaucoma, Graves' disease, dry eyes, high blood pressure, diabetes or cardiovascular disease, you may be rejected as a candidate for eyelid surgery. You should also tell your doctor if you've recently had laser eye surgery performed. The Blepharoplasty Procedure The plastic surgeon makes incisions along the creases of the upper eyelid and, if needed, along the outside lower rim of the eye. An incision inside the lower eye rim may be necessary as well. Fat and muscle tissue is separated from the skin so that any excess tissues can be removed.

The laser blepharoplasty procedure involves an incision on the inside of the lower eyelid and uses a laser to smooth away excess tissue on the outside. This allows for faster healing and a reduced risk of scarring. You may be under local or general anesthesia while the operation is performed, and you should consult your doctor to see if you can choose the option you prefer. Surgery may last as long as three hours, with most patients returning home within a few hours of the operation. Risks of Blepharoplasty Surgery As in other types of facial surgery, there are risks involved with blepharoplasty. These include the risk of infection, scarring and reactions to the anesthesia. Other specific risks of eyelid surgery include dry, itchy, teary or burning eyes, sensitivity to light and double vision. These symptoms may last for a few days after the surgery and can often be relieved by using eye drops. Other rare complications include a pulled-down appearance of the lower eyelids or trouble closing the eyes completely. Both of these conditions may be permanent; if they're correctible, they may require further surgery. Recovering from the Operation Immediately following the surgery, your eyes will be bandaged and lubricated.

Painkillers may be prescribed. To speed the recovery process, you may be asked to avoid television and told not to wear eye makeup or contact lenses. Stitches are often removed about one week after surgery; your doctor has to wait for the bruising to subside. Wearing sunglasses and using sun block to protect the eyes is recommended. You may resume normal activity within 10 days, though you may have to wait up to three weeks before engaging in strenuous exercise. Alternative Procedures If you're not a candidate for blepharoplasty, there are alternatives that may offer similar benefits. Check with your doctor to determine if you're eligible for any of these non-invasive procedures: Laser skin resurfacing: Eliminates damaged outer skin tissue while stimulating collagen production. Botox injection: Temporarily prevents muscle contractions that create wrinkles in the skin. Thermage eye treatments: Uses a radiofrequency tip to stimulate collagen growth and tighten existing skin. Lastly, brow lift surgery can also address drooping eyelids while minimizing the look of frown lines and forehead lines. This is one of the simplest and least invasive facial surgeries available.

Blepharoplasty | Eye Diseases & Problems | Auckland Eye Age changes in the eyelids With aging, the skin loses its natural elasticity. This, combined with the effects of gravity, tends to cause 'drooping' of the eyebrows and the appearance of redundant skin in the upper and lower eyelids. Muscles around the eye may also become thickened (hypertrophic), particularly in smokers. In addition, many people lose fat around the eye (atrophy), resulting in a sunken appearance. The connective tissue layers in the eyelids may thin out, causing fat to move downwards and form 'bags' under the eyes. Loss of elasticity and subcutaneous fat often leads to an increase in wrinkle formation (rhytid) and permanent lines such as frown lines. The results of these changes produce the cosmetic concerns many have regarding the eyelid region, the most common of which include: overhang of upper lid skin puffy looking eyelids the appearance of 'bags' in the lower lids hollowing associated with the 'tear trough' 'dark circles' around the eyes Most of these concerns can be addressed by surgical or non-surgical means.

The 'dark circles' are more problematic as they relate to the specific anatomy of the lower eyelid skin which is devoid of sub-cutaneous fat and therefore allows colour changes from the underlying vascularity to show through very easily. There is no useful surgical treatment for this issue. Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty Upper eyelid surgery is often recommended for functional or cosmetic reasons or a combination of the two. Brow surgery may also be recommended, although this is far less commonly indicated. Most medical insurance companies will cover upper blepharoplasty surgery if the conditions for functional visual impairment are met. Pre-op upper blepharoplasty (front view) Post-op upper blepharoplasty (front view) Generally, surgery involves excision of some redundant skin, underlying muscle and if necessary, excess fat. The skin crease is an important structure in the upper lid as this determines the position of the fold which drapes the upper lid. The skin crease is typically higher in women than men and lower or absent in most oriental races. Loss of the skin crease can contribute to the overhang of skin and often reformation of the crease is indicated during blepharoplasty surgery.

Pre-op upper blepharoplasty (oblique view) Post-op upper blepharoplasty (oblique view) Upper blepharoplasty is the most common cosmetic surgical eyelid procedure performed. There is a very high satisfaction rate amongst patients and it should achieve a significant cosmetic improvement in the upper lids while still maintaining a natural appearance. Asian blepharoplasty This procedure goes by a number of names but the term "double eyelid" is often used by the patient and refers to eyelid skin being seen above and below a crease. The surgery involves the creation of a skin crease in the upper lid in patients with a particularly low or absent skin crease. Attention needs to be paid to the significant differences in the Asian and Caucasian eyelids, as well as variations within Asian races. Patient born with left skin crease but absent right crease Following right upper lid skin crease reformation Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty This surgery involves removal of skin and removal or redistribution of fat. There has been a move away from skin excision in recent years as this is more likely to result in lower lid retraction or ectropion formation.

Another trend has been towards reducing the removal of fat in the lower lid, as this can skeletonise the face, ultimately hastening the aging process. A prominent hollowing (termed the "tear trough") can occur at the junction of the lower lid and cheek, and this usually relates to a combination of loss of fat over the rim, fat prolapse above this and cheek descent. Fat may be redistributed into the tear trough to address this condition though more recently tissue fillers have been found to give very good improvement and now are often the treatment of choice. Lower lid fat prolapse Lid following fat removal The current approach to lower blepharoplasty therefore is to assess whether to remove, reposition or replace tissue (refer below). Fat prolapse and obvious tear trough Appearance after reposition of fat pad Potential complications With well-performed surgery, these procedures rarely have significant complications. The eyelash region may be numb for a number of weeks following division of the fine sensory nerves, but with time this returns to normal. Significant scarring is unusual around the lids because of the fine skin and excellent blood supply in the area.

Patients are often aware of an altered blink following surgery, which may affect the tear film and impact on the vision a little, although this is generally only present for the first couple of weeks after the procedure. Loss of vision has been reported in rare cases (particularly with lower blepharoplasty) and this has a 1:40,000 chance of occurring. By using meticulous technique, performing surgery under local anaesthetic and avoiding post operative padding, this complication is further reduced. Associated conditions Ptosis Some patients may have pre-existing ptosis (low eyelid position) of their upper lids, and this should be corrected at the time of blepharoplasty surgery. Lid laxity In the lower lid, any laxity should also be addressed, particularly where skin is removed in an effort to prevent post operative eyelid malposition. The issues involved in cosmetic eyelid procedures are complex and this is a very specialised area to deal with, particularly when surgery can affect the comfort or function of the eye. Treatments may be surgical or non-surgical and the variations in anatomy of different genders and races need consideration, as do the changes naturally occurring with aging. Common questions about eye lid surgery Is lid surgery covered by medical insurance?

Most insurance policies exclude 'cosmetic surgery' as a rule but will accept the costs if there is a functional reason for the surgery (i.e. improving the field of vision) or if the problem is caused by a medical condition such as thyroid eye disease. Surgery for eyelid malpositions such as ptosis or ectropion is not considered cosmetic and is covered by medical insurance. How long does the surgery take? Bilateral upper or lower blepharoplasty generally takes only 60 to 90 minutes and the majority of cases are performed under local anaesthetic as an outpatient, although some patients choose intravenous sedation (or very occasionally a general anaesthetic). What is involved? In upper lid surgery the incision is made through the skin crease and following removal of excess tissue, the resulting wound is sutured. These sutures are removed within five to seven days. In lower lid surgery the incision is made just below the lashes if skin is excised, but in cases where only fat is removed, the incision is made from inside the lid through the conjunctiva. These sutures dissolve without the need for removal. How soon will it heal?

Following surgery, your eyes needn't be padded, but it is recommended that you apply ice masks regularly to help reduce bruising. Swelling and bruising can vary and while it will generally settle within two weeks of surgery, in some cases it may take longer. Due to gravity, the swelling and bruising will often appear in the lower lids or cheeks even with upper eyelid surgery. Can lid surgery be performed with laser? In some patients wanting lower lid blepharoplasty, laser resurfacing may be the preferred technique. In upper lid blepharoplasty, skin is excised and the laser does not have significant advantages over other methods used to cut tissue or diathermy vessels. Can it affect my eyes? There have been reported cases of loss of vision with lower lid blepharoplasty although this is very rare and is estimated at only one per forty thousand cases. This exceedingly rare complication should be avoidable with careful surgery and appropriate post-operative care. More commonly there is some transient blurring after surgery from a mild alteration to the blink and tear film. How long is the recovery period after surgery?

The surgery can be performed under local or general anaesthesia (more commonly local) and post-operatively the eyelids will take one to two weeks to settle. Bruising and swelling is minimised by firm patching initially and the regular use of ice pads for 48 to 72 hours after the surgery. Eyelid Surgery Boston, Blepharoplasty Newton, Facial Procedures MA Photo Gallery Eyelid Surgery Boston Tired and older looking eyes can be caused by a variety of different factors such as genetics, sun damage, smoking, stress, weight loss or weight gain. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity. Eyelid skin is the thinnest skin on our bodies and in an area exposed to the sun. It is no wonder that the first signs of aging on our face involve the area around our eyes! Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, eyelid tuck, or eyelift, refers to the cosmetic procedure which can transform the tired, older look of your eyes. This popular procedure for both men and women is designed to restore a bright, energetic, more youthful and less tired appearance.

Upper eyelid tucks remove the skin and fat that can droop down to the lashes and in some instances can even correct obstructed vision. Lower lid tucks remove the bags created by fat pouches under the eyes and tighten the lower eyelid skin. A special technique is used in the Asian eyelid to create a double crease eyelid. The effective results of blepharoplasty have made it the most common cosmetic surgical procedure in the world. While it is commonly a cosmetic procedure, blepharoplasty may also serve more functional purposes, such as correcting congenital deformities, as well as vision impairment caused by excess eyelid skin or fat, and damage caused by trauma, inflammation, or infection. Blepharoptosis, for example, is a congenital deformity which can occur in men and women both young and old and involves the abnormal sagging or drooping of the upper eyelids resulting in a sleepy appearance. Similarly, blepharochalasia is the congenital excess bulging of lower eyelid fat that can occur even in young people.

Blepharoplasty may consist of upper eyelid surgery and/ or lower eyelid surgery, depending on the state of the problem area, and on your desires and expectations. Both upper and lower eyelid tucks can be performed either as an office procedure under local anesthesia or with general anesthesia in the hospital operating room. In my practice, most patients choose the former and find it a convenient and well-tolerated treatment. When undergoing an upper eyelid tuck, careful measurements are made to determine how much redundant skin should be removed. Local anesthesia is administered and extra skin and also any offending extra fat is removed. Fine stitches are placed under the skin and tape is applied to the skin at the outer corners of the eyes. Cold compresses are applied for several hours following treatment to reduce any swelling. There may be some bruising that can take some days to fade away but fortunately the scars from the incisions are very fine and hard to notice. Lower blepharoplasty is similar to upper lid surgery although the removal of bags under the eyes from redundant fatty tissue tends to be most important. Folds of extra skin can be tightened along with the underlying muscle and ligament at the corner of the eyes.

Usually one can return to work in one to two weeks depending on the amount of swelling and bruising. Discomfort tends to be mild. Although others may notice a more rested, youthful appearance soon after your procedure, full healing can take several months as with all plastic surgeries. Some representative examples of results can be seen in our before and after photo galley. * Enter the characters below: I agree to the Terms of Use Dr. Volpe specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face and body, utilizing up to date techniques and state of the art technology. Eyelid Surgery - Blepharoplasty in Corpus Christi Texas Eyelid Surgery Home » Plastic Surgery Procedures Corpus Christi » Face Procedures » Eyelid Surgery Eyelid Surgery ( Blepharoplasty ) Known as the windows to the soul, the eyes are a very important first impression feature of the face. Each year patients seek this popular procedure to reverse signs of aging and regain youthful eyes. Eyelid surgery with a triple board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gentile (certified in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Plastic Surgery) can give you a bright, radiant appearance. Contents 10 Pricing What is Blepharoplasty?

Your eyes are the first to show the signs of aging and eyelid surgery can make a big difference in the way you look. Blepharoplasty, more commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgery performed on the upper, lower, or both eyelids. The procedure is designed to remove excess drooping upper or lower eyelid skin and eliminate under eye bags and puffiness. Eyelid surgery can be performed on both men and women. It is important to understand though what the surgery can and won’t achieve. Eyelid surgery will not correct fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles under the eyes, or change the position of the eyebrow. It will however give patients refreshed, youthful eyes. Blepharoplasty can also be paired with procedures like Botox or Brow Lift to add a rejuvenated glow. Ideal Candidates Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery have loose, drooping skin on the upper lids and bagginess or bulging fat pads on the lower eyelids. These patients appear tired due to bags underneath their eyes. With time, the upper eyelids begin to thin and fold, and the muscles supporting them begin to weaken.

Drooping or puffy eye skin can make people look tired or older than they actually are. Besides making you look older, your sagging skin on your eyes can reduce your side vision, especially the upper and outer parts of your vision field. Blepharoplasty can reduce or eliminate these vision problems and your puffiness and make your eyes appear younger and more alert. The above occurrences can be caused by sun exposure, genetics, aging, or not taking care of the skin around the eyes. And while you may want eyelid surgery to correct a physical imperative issue, others may simply desire a cosmetic enhancement. Blepharoplasty patients are typically 35 years or older, and cannot have any serious eye conditions to be a candidate. Reasons to Get Eyelid Surgery Double Eyelid Double eyelid surgery is a procedure that creates a crease in the upper eyelid for those that lack one. This is a popular procedure among patients of Asian descent. The crease made divides the upper eyelid into two sections. Ptosis Ptosis is the clinical terminology for droopy upper eyelids; this is caused by a dysfunction of the muscles.

Eyesight is often hindered in patients who experience ptosis, either in one or both eyes. And with age, the muscles can continue to weaken. On the other hand, ptosis may present itself from birth; this is known as congenital ptosis. If not treated early enough, the muscles may not develop, vision can be blurred, or cause a lazy eye. This condition makes it difficult to carry on the easiest of tasks, and does not improve on it’s own. A Blepharoplasty procedure with Dr. Hervé Gentile can resolve blocked eyesight due to elongated or drooping eyelids and better your vision. Entropion Entropion, the opposite of the above, refers to when the lower eyelid rolls and tucks inward. This circumstance causes the eyelid to rub against the eye, irritating it and making it sensitive to light and wind. Permanent damage can result from scratched corneas or infections caused by this occurrence. Entropion can be present from birth, induced by trauma, or develops with age. Ectropion Ectropion is a term that refers to the lower eyelid sagging and turning outward. The white under the iris is left visible, exposed and unprotected.

This is a common occurrence with aging, but can also be due to trauma, stroke, or prior surgeries. Before & After Photos Consultation During your consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hervé Gentile , you will have the opportunity to share the cosmetic concerns you have about the area around your eyes and your aesthetic goals. He will then perform a comprehensive examination and analyze your skin type and your eyes in context to the rest of your facial features. With all of his findings, both you and he will work together to assess which technique will give you optimal results. You will be shown before and after pictures of patients with similar scenarios to give you an idea of what your results could look like. Results vary from patient to patient, but this will give you a general expectation of results. Please share any medical conditions or ocular diseases as these may affect your candidacy. Dr. Gentile will gladly answer any questions about the entire process. Pricing inquiries can be addressed at this time as well. Preparing for Eyelid Surgery Dr. Gentile will have you complete certain tests and examinations prior to your surgery, including a vision test and on certain occasions a tear production test. Smoking should be avoided several weeks beforehand, as well as after the procedure.

Anti-inflammatory medications and herbal supplements should not be consumed as these increase bleeding. Pain medications will be prescribed by Dr. Gentile to keep you as comfortable as possible during your recovery. Please arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery as you will not be able to yourself. It is recommended to have someone stay overnight with you. Plan on taking several days off from work as rest is key to recovery. Stock your home with plenty of ice cubes and ice packs, as well as clean washcloths and gauze. Do not wear anything to surgery that you need to pull over your head; you do not want to disturb the treated area. Bring a top that you can wrap around yourself. Procedure Information The procedures consists of removing the excess skin or the fatty bags or both and is performed in our surgical office suite under local anesthesia. The length of your procedure varies between patients, but usually takes 1-2 hours. Patients can choose to undergo eyelid surgery for just the upper eyelids, just the lower, or both. There is no “better” choice; each has its merits. Dr. Gentile will gladly go over each with you during your consultation . The incision locations on the eyelids will be marked by Dr.

Gentile. In the Upper Blepharoplasty not only is a strip of skin removed from over your eyes but also some fat which is usually present near the nasal edge. The scars will blend into the natural eyelid folds and lines and will heal very quickly, since the lid skin is very thin, becoming barely noticeable after a few months. Fine sutures are used to close the incision which minimizes the visibility of any scarring. Incisions in the lower eyelids are either made below the eyelid near the lash line (subciliary) or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival.) The transconjunctival approach is used in the lower eyelid to remove fat bulges, which results in a non-visible scar hidden behind your eyelid. Dr. Gentile will have determined during your consultation which incision would suite your case best. Fat, tissue, muscle, and excess skin are either repositioned or removed. For patients with significant lower eyelid redundancy or eye prominence, a lateral canthoplasty is sometimes performed through the same incisions. A canthoplasty repositions the lateral angle of your lid to a higher position thereby tilting the outside of your eyes upwards (almond shape eye).

Alternatives Depending on your desired outcome, an alternative procedure may be deemed more appropriate. Blepharoplasty results however can be greatly enhanced by adding an ancillary procedure. Botox Botox is a minimally invasive FDA approved injectable that corrects fine lines and wrinkles on the face that Blepharoplasty alone does not address. The drug is injected into the facial muscles which temporarily weakens them. Botox can be used to diminish crow’s feet, laugh lines, and forehead wrinkles. This is not a permanent solution to correcting wrinkles and has to be repeated around 3 times a year for continuous results. Brow Lift A Brow Lift raises drooping eyebrows to a more youthful positioning. Through this process wrinkles between the eyes and on the forehead are diminished, and the upper eyelids are slightly raised as well. If you experience tension headaches due to always raising your eyebrows to better see, this procedure can potentially alleviate them. A Brow Lift can be performed in conjunction with eyelid surgery. Facial Peel Facial peels are an alternative to Blepharoplasty when patients wish to address fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, or discoloration of the facial skin. These peels will reveal glowing, radiant skin.

There are different peels that produce varying results, but you and Dr. Gentile will come to a decision together to determine which would give you the best results for your aesthetic desires. In the media you may discover Neotensil, a new product which you can buy over the internet to help with your baggy lower eyelids. It is similar to the detailing products you use on your car tires. It is expensive and only lasts a few hours. The results as you can expect are minimal and don’t look any better than what you obtain using an egg white mask. It is not a cure but a Band-Aid at best. Postoperative Recovery After your surgery you will spend some time in the recovery room recuperating where you will also be monitored. You may leave with a friend or family member after a few hours or when deemed ready by Dr. Gentile. You will be given instructions on how to keep your incisions clean. You will also be given eye drops to prevent dryness or itching. Slightly blurred vision is normal for a couple days, as well as some sensitivity to light. You can reduce swelling and bruising by applying cold compresses to the eyes. Dr.

Gentile will ask you to keep your head elevated for several days. Some swelling and bruising is normal; this will subside quickly. Discomfort and pain, which is minimal if at all, can be controlled by medication. Walking and light activities can speed up the healing process. Recovery is quick and most patients are presentable in four days (make-up is allowed after three days). Expect your eyes to feel tight and pulling for at least a week after surgery, but do remember that it is normal and natural to have a few remaining wrinkles when your lids are open which are the result of functional winking. Sunglasses are also recommended since your eyes for a while will be more sensitive to the light. At your postoperative appointment, Dr. Gentile will assess your recovery progress. In most cases dissolvable sutures are used which do not require removal. Final, radiant results can be seen within a few months. Everyone’s eyelids experience some laxity with age, but results from eyelid surgery can be enjoyed for many years. You may receive comments on your improved appearance but generally speaking nobody will know why, even if you have a new sparkle in your eyes.

Pricing The cost of the Upper Blepharoplasty is approximately $2,800 and a bit higher for the lower eyelid with the combo significantly discounted. While in the past some insurances did cover the procedure it is virtually an impossible task today. Even Medicare requires that the excess skin in your upper eyelid reduces your vision by 50% or more prior to granting approval. To receive an estimate quote for your specific case, schedule a private consultation . Navigate Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery in Michigan | Allure Medical Spa ThreadLift Cosmetic Eyelid Lift Procedures in Michigan – Blepharoplasty Eyelid surgery is one of the best ways to help make the face look less tired. Sometimes when there is excess skin, drooping skin, or bags under the eyes, the world may see a face that is tired or sad, when truly, you feel fine. When you visit us at Allure Medical Spa for a consultation, we will discuss treatment with you that includes options for the lower eyelids, upper eyelids and eyebrows. The team at Allure Medical Spa offers many of the latest eyelid surgery procedures.

While the procedures performed may differ, the goal always remains the same: to create a more youthful but natural-looking eyelid appearance. These procedures are offered so you can put your best face forward, the one that more accurately reflects your inner expressions and emotions. The goal is a natural, relaxed and alert appearance. Prices for eyelid surgery at Allure Medical Spa start at $2,500. For a personalized quote, schedule a consultationiwth an Allure Medical Spa provider today. Come see us today so we can help you devise a plan that will address your unique and specific needs. We’re happy to help you express how you feel on the inside by portraying it on the outside. Laser Eye Lift Laser Blepharoplasty offers new advances in eyelid rejuvenation that can help restore a more youthful look to patients of all ages. Read More Upper Eyelids The eyes are the most attractive and the most expressive parts of the face. Aging changes in this area can falsely project an appearance of tiredness, sadness, anger, or lack of interest. The upper eyelids in particular consist of extremely thin skin. In fact, they have the thinnest skin in the body.

Read More Lower Eyelids The lower eyelids are a major cosmetic focus for many people. They convey a message to others based on their appearance. For example, lower eyelid bags or dark circles make one appear tired. Lower eyelid wrinkles make one look older than their actual age. Read More Droopy Eyelids Blepharoptosis, also called eyelid ptosis refers to an upper eyelid that is droopy or rests in a low position. This can cause the eyelid to interfere with vision. This is different from excess upper eyelid skin which is corrected by skin removal. Read More Brows The eyebrows are very expressive and their position can send messages about our mood. Aging changes in the brows can be seen as tiredness, anger or sadness. Read More To learn which eye lift procedures are right for you, schedule a consultation with one of Oculofacial surgeons. Just call us today at 800-577-2570 or 586-992-8300.

Additional Information Asian Blepharoplasty Dallas, Asian Eyelid Surgery Plano, TX You are here: Home » Cosmetic Surgery Procedures » Asian Blepharoplasty Asian Blepharoplasty Dallas Asian eyelid surgery is a topic Dr. Lam has trained extensively in and is familiar with all the techniques, offering his patients the widest range of surgical options to achieve the desired look. In his book, “ Cosmetic Surgery of the Asian Face “, Dr. Lam instructs other physicians how to perform these different Asian eyelid procedures correctly. This landmark publication represents the only major textbook on Asian facial cosmetic surgery in the English language.. All Asian Blepharoplasty procedures are performed by Dr Lam himself, at his cosmetic surgery center in Dallas, Texas. To schedule a Asian eyelid surgery consultation call 1-888-866-3388 or email us . The details of your Asian eyelid procedure (both the limitations and the benefits in your particular situation) will be explained to you during your Asian eyelid consultation with Dr. Lam and his team.

Asian Blepharoplasty Procedures Creation of a natural-appearing “double eyelid” Asian upper-eyelid surgery represents the most common surgical procedure for the Asian face. Two decades ago, “Westernization” of the upper eyelid constituted the most frequent request for those who elected to undergo this type of procedure. Today, many Asians recognize that a very high lid crease and overzealous removal of upper-lid fat impart a foreign and unnatural look to their face. Furthermore, a hollow eye that may appear attractive on a Caucasian face may indicate premature aging in the Asian patient. Elimination of the “Epicanthal fold” In addition to Asian double-eyelid surgery, Dr. Lam also performs surgery to soften or eliminate the so-called “epicanthal fold”, the web-like skin fold that drapes over the inner part of the eye. This fold can make the eye look distinctly ethnic and may not always be a desirable trait. In addition, a wide fold can make the nose appear even flatter and broader, and small correction of this fold can improve even the way the nose looks. Inner and outer folds and different eye shapes are all possible with the right surgical technique.

As a result of the Asian double-eyelid procedure, the eye will look wider, more open, and less “sleepy” looking. However, if the patient desires an even wider eye that still appears natural, Dr. Lam offers his technique that addresses the outer side of the eyelid. He can widen the eye even further in conjunction with the double-eyelid procedure and/or the removal of the “epicanthal fold”. Let’s take a step back and review exactly what the difference is between an eyelid that has no crease and one that does have a crease. An eyelid with a crease or skin fold exhibits the crease by virtue of the attachment of the levator muscle (the muscle that opens the eyelid) to the skin. The Asian eyelid that has no crease has the levator muscle insert either very low (for partial or low creases) or not at all into the skin so that no crease is visible. The reason that the Asian eyelid appears narrower than the Occidental eye is that the fat (postseptal fat) hangs lower over the eyelid to make the eyelid appear both fatter and the eyelid opening narrower.

In the past, a lot of this puffiness was reduced by removal of fat that would lead to a hollow appearing eye after the procedure or many years down the road. Removal of excessive fat is oftentimes not necessary to “open the eye”. Creation of the crease moves the fat out of the way and creates the same degree of opening in the eyelid aperture. Only about 30% of the time, Dr. Lam encounters excessive fat that needs to be conservatively removed to reduce the puffy appearance of the eyelid. Let’s now review the same anatomy from a different perspective, i.e., from the vantage of what the surgeon encounters during the procedure. After the initial skin incision, the orbicularis muscle is encountered and moved out of the way to visualize a structure known as the orbital septum. The orbital septum holds back the fat that we discussed before and needs to be opened to expose the underlying fat. Immediately below the fat pad lies the glistening white levator muscle (shown as gray in the following illustration). The levator is the structure that is fixated to the skin with sutures to create the levator-to-skin crease that is desired.

As mentioned, these sutures are removed after one week when the levator to skin fixation is already durably created during the healing process. Let’s now review the same anatomy from a different perspective, i.e., from the vantage of what the surgeon encounters during the procedure. After the initial skin incision, the orbicularis muscle is encountered and moved out of the way to visualize a structure known as the orbital septum. The orbital septum holds back the fat that we discussed before and needs to be opened to expose the underlying fat. Immediately below the fat pad lies the glistening white levator muscle (shown as gray in the following illustration). The levator is the structure that is fixated to the skin with sutures to create the levator-to-skin crease that is desired. As mentioned, these sutures are removed after one week when the levator to skin fixation is already durably created during the healing process. With the full incision method, the precise shape of the eyelid crease can be accurately created. An inside fold refers to how the fold closes downward to touch the epicanthus (the inner part of the eyelid).

The inside fold is a more common occurrence in the Asian population and may be considered slightly more “ethnic”. It is commonly paired with a slightly flared crease known as an oval eyelid shape. An outside fold ends further inside the epicanthus and does not touch close down to touch the epicanthus. It is oftentimes paired with a round eyelid configuration in which the crease remains parallel throughout the entire distance of the eyelid. Any of these combinations however are possible and are shown above. Please view our Asian Face Learning Module to learn more.

Question: Blepharoplasty refers to a common cosmetic surgery on?
Answer: Eyelids