Blepharoplasty

The first signs of aging very often appear around the eyelids in the form of excess skin, fatty pockets, and wrinkles that provide a heavy and tired appearance. The goal of this surgery is to restore a natural glow to a patient’s expression. This operation is performed on patients in the 40-45 age range but sometimes earlier when signs of aging are due to hereditary factors. In the majority of cases, the operation is performed under local anesthesia. A mild sedative may be administered or, if a patient wishes, general anesthesia can be planned.

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Upper eyelids

Upper blepharoplasty is indicated in cases where excess skin forms a fold that can go all the way to the eyelashes, making it difficult to apply makeup.

Technique

Precision tracking is done before the operation to obtain a perfect, symmetrical, and natural correction. Excess skin is removed as well as internal excess fat.

The scar is nearly invisible as it is in the raised crease of the eyelid located 1 cm from the eyelashes.

Lower eyelids

Lower blepharoplasty is indicated when there is a “puffiness” linked to fatty pockets, which are responsible for a constantly tired appearance. During your consultation, the surgeon will check the lower eyelid’s muscle tone and the extent of excess skin in order to choose the most appropriate technique.

Technique

Two techniques can be proposed based on the significance of sagging skin and the fragility of the eyelid.

  • More of a SKIN EXCESS: the incision is made along the lashes. The fatty pockets are then removed. The skin is very carefully tightened in order to not “pull” on the eyelid and change the expression (circular eye).
  • More of a FATTY EXCESS: fatty pockets are removed through a conjunctival route, meaning from the inside of the eyelid without scarring.

Eyelid surgery can be performed on its own or combined with other rejuvenation techniques like a browlift or cervicofacial lift. Risks are very low and may, as with all surgeries, include infection, hemorrhage, or eyelid retraction.

Postoperative care

There is very little postoperative pain and most patients only need to take Tylenol®. It is important to apply cold compresses for the first 48 hours to reduce edema. Sutures and bruising disappear within a week and makeup can be applied thereafter. Recovery time is approximately one week.