READY FOR A CONSULTATION?
The skin around the eyes is very delicate and faces frequent movement, meaning that this area is especially prone to signs of aging. A blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift, is a good option for many patients who wish for younger-looking eyes. Dr. Christopher Newman is a board-certified plastic surgeon who can answer any questions you might have about the procedure during a complimentary consultation. Before your appointment, learn some of the basics about this surgery.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Blepharoplasty?
The typical blepharoplasty candidate will see sagging or drooping skin around the eyes as well as wrinkles and excess fatty deposits. This creates the appearance of puffiness in the upper eyelids or bags in the lower eyelids. Patients may feel that they look tired or angry despite feeling youthful, alert, and awake. In some cases, they may also have obscured vision due to sagging eyelids that droop into their line of sight. Before blepharoplasty, it is important that patients have good eye health and healthy facial muscles. Dr. Newman will typically request that patients have a comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist before they are approved for blepharoplasty. You should also be generally healthy overall and a nonsmoker.
How is Blepharoplasty Performed?
Depending on the patients’ needs and goals for the surgery, blepharoplasty may be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both. Lower blepharoplasties require an incision just below the lower eyelashes. Through this incision, Dr. Newman will remove excess fat and skin while tightening the eyelid muscle. Fine dissolvable sutures are then used to close incisions. In an upper blepharoplasty, incisions are made along the natural eyelid crease to remove excess fat or skin and strengthen muscles. These procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home immediately after it is complete. Dr. Newman will explain the plan for your surgery during a consultation appointment.
How Do I Prepare for Blepharoplasty?
Prior to your blepharoplasty consultation, you should be prepared to answer any questions about your health history, including medications or supplements that you take and any allergies. Once your surgery is scheduled, you should follow Dr. Newman’s instructions for preoperative testing such as an eye exam or blood tests. If you smoke, you should stop as soon as possible to help speed the healing process. You may also be asked to stop taking or modify certain medications including blood thinners prior to your surgery. Finally, you can prepare for the recovery process by arranging for a close friend, family member, or another caregiver to drive you home after surgery and care for you for at least 24 hours after the blepharoplasty. Purchase any necessary items like nutritious, easy-to prepare meals or comfortable clothing.
What is Blepharoplasty Recovery Like?
After your blepharoplasty, you may notice blurred vision due to eye ointment. It is usually recommended to wear dark sunglasses after the surgery, as your eyes may be sensitive to light. Swelling, redness, and bruising are all normal side effects which should subside within a week to ten days. Some discomfort or tenderness is normal, so Dr. Newman will likely prescribe pain medication. Most patients require a week to two weeks of downtime before they are ready to return to their normal routines.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about blepharoplasty in St. Petersburg, FL, schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher Newman. Call (727) 228-0622 or contact us online.
