Look Younger With Upper Eyelid Surgery

By Renee Bovelle, MD

Upper eyelid blepharoplastyis one of the most commonly performed surgeries. It can be cosmetic or functional. Cosmetic blepharoplasty can change the shape of the eyelids and reduce heaviness. Functional blepharoplasty may be indicated when heavy eyelid skin hangs across the visual axis, blocking the temporal or overhead visual field. This condition, sometimes referred to as dermatochalasis, is a common change with aging. The need for functional surgery is documented with photography and visual field testing with and without manually lifting the eyelids with tape.

Blepharoplasty surgery can be done as an outpatient procedure, taking approximately one hour, using gentle sedation and local anesthetic. It does not require general anesthesia. Cold compresses are applied to the eyes for the first two days to reduce bruising and swelling. An antibiotic ointment is used during the healing period to reduce the risk of infection and stitches are removed one week after surgery. Most people are back to their regular activities within one month.