Some individuals may have excess fat or skin that accumulates above or below the eyelids which may cause the upper eyelid to droop, dark circles to form under the eyes, or sagging eyebrows. These physical changes can make us look significantly older, but they can also impair our peripheral vision. Blepharoplasty for eye rejuvenation is a surgical procedure that modifies the eyelids by removing or repositioning excess fat or skin. Many people seek to correct these signs of aging not only for aesthetic reasons, but to improve the quality of their vision. If you have excess skin, muscle laxity or fat deposits, blepharoplasty can resolve the issue to provide beautiful results with minimal downtime. In some cases where “droopy” eyelids are the problem, patients may need a brow lift to reposition their eyebrow to above the ocular rim (bone) to rejuvenate the eyelid.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Best for: Excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids
• Loose upper eyelid skin that impairs your vision
• Tired and puffy eyes
• Excess skin and fine, ‘crepe paper’ type lower eyelid wrinkles
• Excess skin that impairs peripheral vision

Treatments needed: One

How it works: Dr. Ostad will numb the area with local anesthetic and delicately remove the excess fat and/or skin skillfully and safely. Patients are also given an oral medication to relax them during the procedure. After the excess tissue is removed, Dr. Ostad places very fine sutures carefully into the area which will remain in place for 5 days.

What to expect: Due to the delicate nature of the area, you can expect some bruising to develop on and below the eyelids which will resolve in about one week. Patients are encouraged to wear sunglasses for a minimum of 48 hours when exposed to sunlight.

How to prep: Patients are to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory medications and alcohol for two weeks prior to the procedure, along with supplements and herbal remedy’s such as vitamin C, E, fish oil and coQ10. For a full list of all supplements and medications, please view our pre-post op Blog or contact our concierge Registered Nurse for exact instructions.

Post procedure: There may be slight tenderness, swelling and light to moderate bruising and pain can be controlled by Tylenol. Patients are to apply aquaphor to both eyelids twice daily until the stitches are removed.

Contraindications: Coagulant disorders, blephrospasm, diabetes, disease of eye, conjunctivitis, “dry eye”.

If the excess tissue is impairing your vision, you might be able to qualify for reimbursement from your insurance company. Contact your provider for more information.