AM I A CANDIDATE FOR BLEPHAROPLASTY?

Blepharoplasty can rejuvenate the area around both above and below your eyes, improving appearance and functionality. Consider blepharoplasty if any of the following apply to you:

• Looking tired and dark bags under the eyes
• Excess skin of the lower eyelid
• Loose or folding skin of the upper eyelid
• Fatty deposits in the eyelid that give a puffy appearance
• Drooping lower eyelids
• Vision impairment from hooding of the upper eyelid

Sometimes an issue that seems to be caused by the eyelids is actually a symptom of another problem in the eyebrows or forehead. Always consult with your doctor to get a thorough evaluation of your facial anatomy before making the decision to have a blepharoplasty.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION

During a consultation, your plastic surgeon should discuss all possible treatment options and the potential associated risks. Another procedure might better remedy the problem area, such as a brow lift or forehead lift, so be sure to get a full facial evaluation before deciding on any particular procedure.

Be prepared to discuss your medical history, allergies, medications, preexisting conditions, and previous surgeries with your doctor during a consultation. Make sure you understand the complete process and recovery before undergoing blepharoplasty surgery.

HOW IS BLEPHAROPLASTY PERFORMED?

After general anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision, the site of which depends on the type of blepharoplasty being performed. If the correction is in the upper eyelid, the incision is made within the natural crease of the lid to conceal any resulting scars. This site also allows the plastic surgeon to remove or reposition fatty deposits, tighten muscles, or remove excess skin.

In lower blepharoplasty, the incision is typically made at the lower lash line, just below the eye and on the inner aspect of the lower lid. Depending on the nature of the correction, fatty deposits may be removed or repositioned, muscles may be tightened, or excess skin may be removed.

Incisions are closed with both resorbable and non-resorbable sutures. An antibiotic ointment is then applied after the procedure is completed.

RECOVERY AFTER BLEPHAROPLASTY

As an outpatient procedure, blepharoplasty patients are usually released the same day of surgery. Initial healing will involve some discomfort, swelling, irritation, and dry eyes. Be sure to take any prescribed medications to avoid infection, and follow all instructions from your doctor. Sutures can be removed around one week after the procedure.

POTENTIAL RISKS OF BLEPHAROPLASTY

There are always potential risks involved with any surgery or procedure that requires anesthesia, so discuss these with your doctor before deciding to undergo blepharoplasty surgery. Potential risks associated specifically with eyelid surgery include:

• Swelling and bruising
• Infection
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Dryness of the eyes
• “Lid lag” (a tugging sensation on the lower lid, which is often temporary)
• Temporary or sometimes permanent changes in vision
• Difficulty closing your eyes

Be sure that the surgeon performing the procedure is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and that the surgery is being carried out in an accredited surgical facility.

WHAT DOES BLEPHAROPLASTY COST?

Although costs will vary according to geographic area and specific procedure type, the general cost of blepharoplasty in the United States is around $3,000, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago always provides a detailed breakdown of costs after an initial consultation. If the reason for undergoing eyelid surgery is a functional one, your health insurance provider may cover some of the cost. You should contact your insurance company before scheduling an appointment with us.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you believe you might be a candidate for a blepharoplasty, contact us today for a consultation. Our professional staff and knowledgeable doctors will be happy to answer any and all questions you may have, and we will never perform a procedure unless we know it is the absolute best course of treatment for you.

All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.