BLEPHAROPLASTY FAQ

What Is Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)?

Blepharoplasty is an eyelid surgery that removes or repositions fat and skin and tightens and supports eyelid muscles. Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper or lower or both eyelids.

Does Blepharoplasty Remove Wrinkles?

Blepharoplasty removes puffiness and sagging skin and can improve the appearance of some wrinkles in the lower lids. Wrinkles at the corner of the eyes ("crows feet") will not be removed with blepharoplasty and must be addressed with other procedures such as Botox injection or laser treatment.

Will I have Scars From Blepharoplasty?

All surgery produces some scarring. The scars from blepharoplasty are usually minimal, heal well, and are ultimately well concealed.

Is Blepharoplasty Permanent?

Blepharoplasty results are long lasting and most patients do not require additional procedures. The fat, which is removed, does not grow back.

Is There An Ideal Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

The ideal candidate for blepharoplasty has excess sagging skin of the upper or lower lids often with associated fatty bags of puffiness. Additionally, the best candidates would be people who:

• Are in good health
• Have a positive outlook and realistic expectations for the procedure
• Are not long-term cigarette smokers

What is the Recovery Period Like?

The initial healing process usually includes some degree of swelling, bruising and occasional eye irritation, characterized by increased tearing, blurring, and light sensitivity. Ice compresses, saline eye drops and occasionally nighttime lubricants will reduce these symptoms. Any non-dissolving sutures will be removed during the first week. Bruising will resolve in ten to fourteen days. Make up may be used after a week to conceal bruising or early scar redness. During the first three weeks strenuous activity such as sports or heavy lifting should be avoided.

How Long Does The Surgery Take?

Upper lid blepharoplasty alone is a very short procedure. When upper and lower lid blepharoplasty is performed together the procedure takes approximately two hours to five hours depending on the extent of the procedure.

Will I Need To Stay In The Hospital?

When performed alone, blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure.

How Much Pain Is There?

Blepharoplasty surgery is usually not associated with a large amount of pain. There is generally a tight sensation and some eye irritation and watering in the first week to ten days. Ice compresses, saline eye drops and nighttime lubricants help to reduce these symptoms.

What Does The Surgery Cost?

If you are considering blepharoplasty surgery, please contact our office to find out more about the cost of the surgery.  We offer several financing alternatives for our patients.

If you are interested in having blepharoplasty surgery or would like to learn more, contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation to speak with Dr. Bottger. He will be able to answer all of your questions regarding the procedure, recovery and expectations.

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