What is blepharoplasty?
Chances are, if you’re here, you already have some idea about what blepharoplasty is and are even considering undergoing one of its treatments. If you want to learn more about what it involves and its benefits, then you’ve come to the right place.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery treatment designed to correct excess skin on the eyelids , both upper and lower, and also includes the removal of bags under the eyes.
Most patients who request this treatment are older, as the skin on the eyelids swells with age, dulling the look. However, there is also a genetic component, so there may be cases of younger people who require this procedure.
What does the surgery consist of?
An eyelid operation is intended to correct aesthetic problems in the eye area. This surgery takes an estimated one to two hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
The technique used is simple and minimally invasive. In upper blepharoplasty, the skin is removed along the natural folds. This way, the dreaded scars are naturally hidden.
In the case of bags, or lower blepharoplasty , the excess fat must be removed. To do this, it’s preferable to use the transconjunctival technique , which removes fat from the inside of the eyelid, concealing the scars.
However, in cases where excess skin needs to be removed, not just fat, the subciliary technique is often used. Here, the operation is performed through the eyelash line.
These operations can be performed together ( complete blepharoplasty ) or separately. If you have excessively droopy eyelids, these techniques can be combined with canthopexy and canthoplasty .
Canthopexy is the option used when eyelid laxity is not severe, and involves placing a suture to reinforce the tendon. Canthoplasty is used in the most extreme cases; it shortens the tendon to elevate the eyelid.
What is the postoperative period like?
If you want to know what blepharoplasty is, you’re probably worried about its postoperative period . In fact, one of the reasons patients fear this treatment is their recovery.
The eyes are one of the most delicate parts of the human body; in fact, we are repulsed at the mere thought of touching them. But this surgery actually has a completely painless postoperative period . You may occasionally experience dry eyes or conjunctivitis, but nothing more.
Blepharoplasty also doesn’t cause scarring , since, as we’ve explained, the incisions are made in strategic locations. The results are fairly rapid; although you may notice swelling in the first few days, you’ll be able to return to your routine within a couple of weeks.
If you’d like to learn more about recovering from your blepharoplasty, we recommend reading our article , “What is the postoperative period like after blepharoplasty?”
Results, before and after
Perhaps these before-and-after images of two complete blepharoplasties will help you take the plunge. As you can see, this treatment offers excellent results, clearing your gaze, rejuvenating your face, and even allowing for improved visibility.
We hope this article has answered all your questions about blepharoplasty , the types of surgery, and postoperative care. As you can see, this is a safe and effective treatment that offers significant aesthetic improvements.
If you’d like to learn more, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Dr. José Nieto at the phone number at the bottom of this page.
