The decision to undergo Eyelid Surgery is an exciting one. It is my belief, that an educated patient allows you to determine your personal goals, and enables you to make an informed decision about your surgical procedure. I have developed this website as a patient information source. Hopefully, this site will prepare you for your initial consultation.

Do people tell you that you look tired? Do you want to remove the bags under your eyes and look more youthful? The aging eye often results in a tired, angry, or sad appearance. Eyelid surgery is commonly done for aging eyes, but in some people the traits are inherited requiring surgery at a younger age. In any case, this procedure will result in a more rested, alert, and energized appearance.

Procedure:

Eyelid surgery, also known as a blepharoplasty, is a procedure that can be done on the upper eyelids for excessive, wrinkled, drooping skin, or on the lower eyelids for excessive skin or fat resulting in puffy bags. Eyelid surgery can be done alone, or can be performed in conjunction with a face-lift, cheek lift, or other facial procedures. The upper eyelid incisions are camouflaged in the natural eyelid fold of the upper lid or just under the lash line in the lower eyes. Through this incision, excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed. In some cases, the underlying muscle will be tightened. The incisions eventually fade and blend into the natural creases of the eye and are well camouflaged.

Options:

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty:
In this procedure the lower eyelid incision is placed inside the lower lid. This technique cannot remove excess skin. The extra skin will need to be tightened by a laser or other method. This option is not for everyone and will be discussed at the time of your initial consultation.
In certain situations, a forehead lift (or brow-lift) may be needed to correct upper eyelid droopy skin.

Ideal Candidates

• Patients who are in good health
• Patients with realistic expectations
• Patients who are doing the procedure for the right reasons (i.e. for themselves)

Upper Eyelids:

• Patients with excess skin
• Patients with loose skin that hangs down from the upper eyelids
• Patients who have a tired look because of puffiness

Lower Eyelids:

• Patients with excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelids
• Patients with puffy "bags"

Risks and Complications

The risks and complications may include, but are not limited to bleeding, infection, scarring, dry eye problems, asymmetry, difficulty closing the eyes, pulling down of the lower lids, allergic reactions, eyelash hair loss, delayed healing, risks and complications associated with anesthesia, and in rare instances blindness. Keep in mind that although complications can occur, they are rare. Risks and potential complications of surgery are best discussed at the time of your consultation.

Smokers have a greater risk of pulmonary, and wound healing complications. Care should be taken with the following conditions: "dry eye", glaucoma, circulatory disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and thyroid problems.

It is extremely important with this and other elective surgical procedures to avoid aspirin and aspirin-containing medications two weeks prior to surgery. It is also mandatory to avoid situations that will raise your blood pressure post surgery.

Recovery:

Following surgery, you may temporarily experience blurred vision, tightness around the eyes, discomfort, bruising, and swelling (these symptoms vary among individuals). Within the first week, stitches will be removed. After two weeks, non-strenuous exercise may be resumed, and you may wear contact lenses if needed. For several months the skin around your eyes should be treated with extra care. You should apply sun block on your eyelids and over your incisions and use sunglasses to protect your eyes from the wind and extreme temperatures. As with all cosmetic procedures, the final result will be apparent by about one year. The results of eyelid surgery are long lasting; however, keep in mind that your eyes will continue to age through the years.

In/Out Patient

Your surgery can be done as an out-patient under local anesthesia, IV sedation or General Anesthesia if you wish. This procedure usually takes one to two hours.

Call Dr. Kole for a complimentary consultation: 215-354-1010