Eyelid Lifts

(Blepharoplasty)

Choosing a Procedure

Do other people say you look tired when actually you are not? This problem can arise with aging. However, people in their 20's and 30's have also benefited from this procedure. Men and woman have had this procedure done to improve their self image.

Conditions for a Good Candidate

Upper

• Natural fold is not visible due to excess skin
• Loose skin which hangs from lid
• Tired look which is created by puffiness

Lower

• Fine wrinkles
• Bags (puffiness) and dark circles

Consultation Expectations

Consultation is considered the first step for the patient. Dr. Kaila will discuss your expectations for your results as well as assess your physical and emotional health. Come prepared, as there will be many important questions that will be asked of you during your consult. Some examples of this are listed below:

• Surgeries in past
• Medical conditions
• Medications being taken
• Allergies

During your assessment, Dr. Kaila will observe the amount of excess fat as well as skin around your eyelids. Dr. Kaila takes into consideration position of the eyebrows, muscle condition around the eyelid and may also suggest some other cosmetic options which will assist in meeting your goals for your final results. For example, a brow lift may help with a sagging brow, whereas a chemical peel or laser resurfacing may help with crow’s feet.

Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Since everyone has different eyes, Dr. Kaila will determine which method to use for your eyelid(s), geared to your unique situation. This is mainly determined by a person’s features.

Upper: In most situations, the incision extends across the natural eyelid crease. It begins on the inside corner of the natural crease and extends to the outside corner which is near the crows feet. Fatty tissue and excess skin are removed through this incision. When the incision is healed, it is disguised along the natural contour in the upper eyelid.

Lower: Generally, just underneath (below) your lower eye lash is where the incision is concealed. Fatty tissue, excess skin and muscle are removed through this incision. In some cases, the fat in the lower lid is redistributed, which decreases puffiness, bulges or indents. This is another option, depending on your individual case. Muscles can also be tightened if needed.

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty: This could be a solution for the fat that collects in the lower lid. During this procedure, this excess fat is removed. The incision would be on the inside of the lower lid. Some people like the idea of this because there is no external incision. However, this technique cannot take away excess skin on the lower lid. Chemical peels or laser resurfacing could be used in conjunction to reduce wrinkles on the lower lid.

Safety of Procedure

There are thousands of people each year who undergo this surgery and no major complications are experienced. All risks and benefits which coincide with this procedure must be understood. Dr. Kaila will discuss this with you. You also need to express any and all questions and concerns you have regarding the safety of this procedure. The advice given by Dr. Kaila must be followed before and after your surgery. Following Dr. Kaila’s instructions will decrease some of the risks.

Preparing for Surgery

Once you select a surgery date for your procedure, you will be given an information package by Dr. Kaila. This includes:

• General surgery information
• Specific risks
• Specific post op instructions
• Specific as you heal instructions
• Surgical consent
• Day of Surgery

Surgery is performed at our private clinic. Usually, this procedure is performed under a local anesthesia. General anesthesia is used in some cases. During the procedure, you will remain comfortable and your physical status is always monitored during the operation as well as in recovery.

After Surgery

Immediately after surgery you are brought to the recovery area. The following are all possible things which might be experienced:

• Blurred vision, which is temporary
• Tightness around eyes which is relieved as the swelling decreases
• Discomfort which is common with all operations. Pain medications are given to relieve discomfort
• Swelling and bruising, which will vary depending on the person
  

Healing:

1st Day

• It is important to keep the head elevated and rest
• Application of cold compresses will aide in decreasing swelling
  

1st Week

• Bruising around the eyes will be at its peak but then starts to fade
• Mild blurred vision may continue
• Dryness and/or excess tearing of eyes
• Itchiness around the eyes
• Mild sensitivity
• Makeup can be used to minimize appearance of bruising
• 1 week post operative sutures will be removed unless they are dissolvable
• Resumption of regular activities which are non strenuous

Several weeks

• Final results will be visible
• Swelling will mostly be gone
• Resumption of exercise, even lifting and bending
• Contact lenses may be worn
• Vision, if affected, will be back to normal

Follow-Up Appointments

Post operative appointments are essential to evaluate the progress of your healing. Dr. Kaila will want to continue his assessment with periodic checkups. This is important because Dr. Kaila can monitor your results and answer any of your questions and concerns post operatively.

Results

Most people are very pleased and impressed with their results. Your appearance will be alert, refreshed and rejuvenated. Self confidence will rise in most cases. Others may comment that you look rested, without knowing you had this procedure. Skin surrounding your eyes needs to be treated for several months with extra care. Sun block needs to be worn during day time. Also, tinted sunglasses should be worn during the day. This protects eyes from being irritated by wind or sun. Results are long lasting and Dr. Kaila can advise you what would be the best way to maintain results, keeping in mind that the rest of your face continues the aging process.