l Aesthetic Plastic Surgery r
t

Check with insurance as some eyelid surgeries are covered by insurance if used to correct visual field defects.

Eyelid Surgery Before and After
Eyelid Surgery Before and After
b

Eyelid SurgeryDroopy upper eyelids and baggy lower lids can be improved for a brighter, less “tired” or “angry” look. Excess skin and fat is removed and tightened to rejuvenate the eyes. Incisions are hidden in the natural folds and “grain” of the skin. Depending on the particular case, the lower eyelid surgery may be performed through a non-visible incision on the inside of the lower lid.

Operation

Performed typically in one to two hours as an outpatient surgery in our surgical facility in Hinsdale. A local anesthetic with or without intravenous sedation by our certified anesthetist is used. Antibacterial ointment is placed on the incision immediately following surgery to facilitate healing.

Scarring

Scars are placed inconspicuously in natural folds where they are easily hidden. The scars may extend into the crows feet area but will be hidden. They will usually be red or pigmented for about one to two months and then fade to unnoticeable by four to six months after your surgery. Eyelid surgical scars are rarely troublesome but as with all scars, they are permanent but their height and width are not totally predictable.   

Recovery

Iced water in baggies will be used for the first two to three days following surgery along with instructions to apply ointment in the first week. There will be some swelling and bruising. After one week, swollen areas will begin to subside. Sutures are removed four to six days following surgery. Patients will be seen one to three days after surgery and then in one month and finally four months following surgery.

Healing Time

Reading can typically be done in two to three days after surgery. Usually swelling begins to subside in the first week but it will take four to six weeks for minimal to no residual swelling. Light exercise can be started at two to three weeks. Vigorous exercise can resume four months following surgery.

Time to return to public eye

Typically 10-14 days after surgery with makeup. Sunscreen should be worn to protect healing skin.   

Actual Results

Most patients have very good long-term results with this surgery lasting several years and sometimes permanent.

Risks

Temporary blurred or double vision may occur as well as swelling at the corners of the eyelids or dry eye sensation. Formation of whiteheads may be seen or slight asymmetry in healing or scarring. Difficulty in closing eyes completely is rare but may require further surgery. Blindness is extremely rare.