Blepharoplasty/Eyelid Reshaping

The aging process brings with it a loosening of the skin and often bulging of the underlying fat collections of the upper and lower eyelids. Many individuals begin to notice this phenomenon when in their 30’s. Blepharoplasty (eyelid reshaping) is a surgical procedure that involves excision of the excess skin, muscle, and protruding fat around the eyelids with disguised incisions. Blepharoplasty is of the most powerful surgical procedures with impressive postoperative results.

Youthful and inviting eyes are essential for a rejuvenated appearance. Part of the art of aesthetic facial plastic surgery often involves diverting attention away from more aged parts of the face, to bring focus instead upon more youthful eyes. Youthful eyes are engaging and attractive.

Unfortunately, the tissues around the eyes are of the first parts of the face to demonstrate an aged appearance. Often, this pattern of aging is hereditary, and is characterized by “puffy” upper eyelids with excess skin, or “bulging” or “baggy” lower eyelids.

Eyelid surgery can be performed as an isolated procedure, often in Dr. Sparano’s procedure room under local anesthesia and oral sedation, or in combination with other procedures. Eyelid surgery is most often performed in combination with full face and neck laser skin resurfacing, or with the facelift operation.

When performed on the appropriate candidate, eyelid reshaping is a very gratifying procedure with powerful, long-lasting results that are natural in appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does eyelid reshaping take place?
Eyelid surgery is usually performed in Dr. Sparano’s procedure room, unless combined with a facelift or other surgical procedures.

Does eyelid surgery require anesthesia?
Most surgeries are performed with local anesthesia and oral sedation. Sometimes intravenous sedation can be used when appropriate.

Will I have to stay in a hospital after eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure.

Where are the scars for eyelid surgery?
Upper eyelid scars are usually well hidden in the natural crease of the eyelid. Lower eyelid incisions are either invisible (if made on the inner part of the eyelid called the conjunctiva), or blend in with a natural skin crease of the lower eyelid. Generally, incisions from eyelid surgery heal exceptionally well.

Will my eyelid surgery fix my “crow’s feet” or “sagging” eyebrow?
Blepharoplasty is not a procedure that addresses either area; it instead addresses the tissues of the upper and/or lower eyelids. The fine wrinkles around the eyes (“crow’s feet”) can be easily treated by other measures. Similarly, “sagging” brows are best treated by a brow lift procedure. 

Can my eyelid surgery be covered by my insurance company?  
Cosmetic blepharoplasty is not covered by insurance companies. When the excess tissues of the upper eyelids can be shown to interfere with a patient’s vision, insurance may cover a portion of the associated cost.

What is the recovery like after eyelid surgery?
The eyes will be bruised and swollen for about 7-10 days after surgery. Stitches are removed usually by day 5 after surgery. Eye make-up can be worn in certain instances to help disguise the healing eyelids.