Drooping eyelids can make you look fatigued, cross, or older than you actually are. Some people’s eyelids droop so much that it interferes with their vision. The good news is that eyelid surgery can correct drooping lids and restore an alert and youthful aspect. Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids.
You’ll have a consultation with one of our cosmetic surgeons before your eyelid surgery. This is to make sure that you’re a good candidate for the operation. The doctor will take your medical history and ask you about your objectives. They’ll ask if you have any medical conditions, allergies or previous surgeries around your eyes. Some people have medical conditions that make the surgery unadvisable. They include hyperthyroidism, dry eye, high blood pressure, glaucoma, diabetes, or a detached retina.
During the Surgery
The cosmetic surgeon marks the place around your eyelid where they’ll operate to remove the skin and fat. They’ll then give you anesthesia around your eye and a form of sedation. Occasionally the anesthesia is general. They’ll start at the outside of the lower eyelid and work around.
After the Surgery
The surgical wound may or may not be closed with sutures. The sutures will be covered with adhesive strips, and the surgeon may add ointment to your eyes to keep them lubricated.
Eyelid surgery can be an inpatient or outpatient procedure. Whether it’s inpatient or outpatient, you’ll need to sleep with your head raised for a few days afterwards. Just pile some pillows against the head of your bed and rest against them. Cold compresses will ease pain and keep the swelling and bruising down. Swelling and bruising should start to go away after about four to six weeks. Before you leave the clinic, the nurse will show you how to keep your eyes clean and how to apply eye drops to keep your eyes comfortable.
Your eyes may tear and be a bit itchy and light sensitive for a few weeks after your surgery. Your vision may be blurred or double, but that’s normal. After about a month, you will see your new, rejuvenated look.
Drooping Eyelids? Contact Us
If your eyes are so droopy that they make you look tired or angry or even interfere with your ability to see, you may be a candidate for eyelid surgery at Boulder Plastic Surgery in Boulder, CO. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation today!