DERMATLANTA.COM > ATLANTA LASER & COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER > BLEPHAROPLASTY > FAQ
Blepharoplasty Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blepharoplasty Performed On Both Men And Women?
Yes. It should be noted that a significant number of men and women of all ages elect to have blepharoplasty to achieve a more youthful look and for more comfortable positioning of the eyelid skin. Certainly, women in their forties and fifties comprise the majority of patients. Eyelid correction is usually the first procedure considered to achieve the desired youthful appearance.
Who May Not Have The Surgery?
Patients with other significant eye problems like glaucoma, exophthamos, or dry eye problems may not be eligible for this procedure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure and other medical problems are always considerations in patients undergoing elective surgical procedures. Lazy eyes or secondary (malar) bags usually require additional surgery. Through consultation and examination, you can determine if you're a candidate for this rewarding procedure.
Is There Swelling And Bruising After The Procedure?
There is minimal swelling after blepharoplasty, but this resolves rapidly with the postoperative instructions provided for the patient. There is slight bruising after surgery and this, too, fades rapidly. Women can wear makeup seven days after surgery.
How Long Will It Last?
Since the role of gravity is not as significant on the eyelids, the results are long lasting and rarely is there a functional need for another procedure. Once removed, the fat pads do not regrow. Occasionally after 8-10 years further skin touch up sessions may be required.
Can Lasers Be Used For Eyelids?
We were one of the first groups in the U.S. who studied the safety and effectiveness of using lasers verses a scalpel in eyelid surgery. We did prove the laser can be used, but the differences are really minimal. The final decision is between the patient and the surgeon.
Will The "Crow's-Feet" Lines At The Corner Of The Eyes
Be Removed?
Realistic expectations on the part of the patient are key to success. Sagging tissue of the eyelids and bulging fat pads can certainly be removed. Blepharoplasty will not, however, correct fallen brows (this can be improved by a forehead lift or a brow lift). Blepharoplasty will not remove frown lines between the eyebrows (this can be treated by collagen injections, fat transfer, insertion of Gortex, of injection of BOTOX® Cosmetic). Wrinkling of the skin around the eyes is usually not improved by blepharoplasty (chemical peel or laser resurfacing are the best treatments for fine-line wrinkling).
What About The Dark Circles?
Dark circles can be caused by various factors such as pigmentation, shadows from the fat pads, or dilated blood vessels. This procedure generally helps the shadows, and the effects of blood vessels, but it rarely helps the pigmentation, which may be lessened by chemical peeling or laser resurfacing.
What Side Effects Or Complications Might There Be?
Those who choose blepharoplasty should be in good health. Complications are uncommon. Bleeding is rare. Visual impairment is extremely rare; we have never seen this complication. There may be some temporary sensitivity to bright light or wind and we recommend wearing dark glasses when outside. In keeping with our constant efforts to maintain the highest standards of patient safety and in an ongoing effort to avoid possible complications, we ask that each of our blepharoplasty patients undergo an extensive and comprehensive eye exam by an ophthalmologist prior to surgery on the eyelids.
Will Insurance Companies Pay For This Surgery?
Some insurance companies will pay for all or part of upper eyelid surgery if there is visual impairment (called "visual restriction") due to excessive skin of the upper eyelids. The ophthalmologist will perform a test for visual field restriction, and if there is impairment in this area, he will dictate a letter of necessity for your insurance company. Our Patient Advocate will then write your insurance company and send preoperative photos to determine prior approval for the upper lid surgery. Lower eyelids are not covered by insurance unless there is a deformity or previous defect.
What Can Be Done If The Eyebrows Are Drooping Or There Are Lines
And "furrows" Of The Forehead?
If this is a significant problem, the forehead / brows may be lifted. This is more extensive surgery than the blepharoplasty but still can be performed as an outpatient in The Surgical Suite. The forehead and brows are raised to their original position and the muscles responsible for the furrows and "frown lines" are weakened or divided to aid in future prevention of this problem.
How Soon Can I Return To Work?
Take it easy, rest, relax for the first week. Cold compresses for the first 72 hours help minimize bruising and swelling. Keeping the head elevated for the first few days also helps. Vigorous exercise should be avoided that first week. Many patients return to work in a few days, wearing glasses and makeup. It may be an average of 7-10 days before most feel comfortable in all social gatherings.
Are There Scars? Keloids?
Any incision will leave a scar but scars are carefully placed in the natural fold of the upper lid. Thickened scars called keloids, are rare on the lids. If a slightly thickened scar does develop it usually disappears by 6 months and may be injected to speed its flattening.