Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, tightens areas around the eyes where the skin has become saggy, droopy, or puffy as a result of gravity and aging. This procedure also removes excess tissue that may even be hindering one’s ability to see. Let Plastic Surgeons of Northern Arizona awaken the areas around your eyes, where you look and feel your best and regain confidence with a more youthful, alert appearance.

What is Blepharoplasty? Am I a Candidate?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure performed around the eyes, on the upper and/or lower eyelids. This procedure can rejuvenate and improve your eye’s appearance and, if you’re having trouble with your vision, it can also reverse that effect with the removal of excessive skin tissue on the upper lids. Blepharoplasty can reverse some signs of aging by smoothing out fine lines, virtually making eyelid wrinkles disappear.

You are a good candidate for this procedure if:

• You do not have any medical or serious eye conditions.
• You are a nonsmoker.
• You have realistic goals and a positive attitude.

Risks and Safety

The decision to undergo a blepharoplasty is entirely up to you, in consultation with your doctor, and is based on the goals you make for yourself. At the consultation, you will be given a consent form that explains the procedure and informs you of the potential risks involved. It is important that you ask any questions you may have regarding the surgery during the consultation. Listed below are some of the risks that are possible with eyelid surgery:

• Infection
• An outward rolling of the lower eyelid (ectropion).
• Closing your eyes may become difficult.
• Eye dryness
• General Anesthesia risk.
• Persistent pain

Cost

If the eyelid surgery is medically indicated, removing excess upper eyelid skin to improve vision, your health insurance may cover the cost. However, if the surgery is cosmetic, then health insurance will not cover the cost, meaning the patient must pay for the procedure. Cost includes the combination of the surgeon’s fee, the facility fee, and the anesthesia fee.

Plastic Surgeons of Northern Arizona participates with Care Credit, a financing company that can provide loans to help cover the cost of cosmetic eyelid surgery. Loans that are interest-free for up to twelve months are available through Care Credit for qualifying applicants.

Preparation, Procedure, and Recovery

In preparation for the surgery, it’s best to make sure you’re up-to-date on all medical exams and lab tests. You should also discuss with your doctor whether you need to adjust current medications and/or supplements, and quit smoking.

An eyelid surgery is done in a multi-step process. First, our surgeons will administer the anesthesia to help make you more comfortable. Once the anesthesia has kicked in, the surgeon will make the incisions, depending on the specific procedure.

• Upper eyelid: an incision made in the natural crease of the eyelid.
• Lower eyelid: an incision made just below the lower lash line.
• Transconjunctival incision: an incision made on the inside of the lower eyelid.

Once the necessary procedure has been completed, the surgeon will seal up the incisions either with skin glue or sutures, which are removed within about 10 days. Eye lubricants will be applied to aid in the recovery process. You’ll be given further instructions on how to properly care for your eye, or eyes, including what to do during the initial healing process. There may be swelling, irritation, dryness, and bruising that can be controlled with medication and cold compresses. Upon leaving our facility, be sure to have dark, tinted sunglasses as your eyes will be very sensitive to sunlight following the procedure.

Summary

Blepharoplasty provides long-lasting results, with patients being able to return to low-stress, normal activities within two to three days. You’ll be able to see more clearly and walk with confidence with firmer, smoother eyelids than before. You’ll have firmer, smoother eyelids, and will look more rested and alert than before surgery.

At Plastic Surgeons of Northern Arizona, our surgeons are here to provide you with the best care from beginning to end. If you are considering getting eyelid surgery, contact us today at (928) 774-2300 or (800) 962-1390 to schedule a blepharoplasty consultation at any of our five Northern Arizona locations.