What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that can be performed on both the upper eyelids and/or lower eyelids. A blepharoplasty rejuvenates aging eyelids and restores normal vision by removing excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids while smoothing eyelid wrinkles. It also removes bags and tightens skin on the lower eyelids.

What is Ptosis Repair, and how will I know if I need it?

Ptosis repair is eyelid surgery that is performed during a blepharoplasty. Necessity is determined by consultation and an objective test called a peripheral visual field study. Ptosis repair surgery is performed when the function of raising the eyelids does not work properly, causing impaired vision. The solution is to tighten the levator muscle in the eye that is responsible for this task. An incision is made in the upper eyelid and the levator muscle is then tightened. Levator repair can be covered by insurance sometimes, but removing the excess skin is considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance. Ptosis repair is not usually performed without the cosmetic blepharoplasty.

Am I a candidate for a blepharoplasty?

You may be considered a good candidate if your answer is yes to any of the following questions:

• Have your upper eyelids become heavy, or hooded, ―and may even obstruct your vision?
• Is the skin beneath your eyes sagging, or wrinkled?
• Has the skin on either upper or lower eyelids lost its smoothness?
• Do you look grumpy?
• Do you have dark circles?
• Do you look old around the eyes?
• Have you lost the twinkle in your smiling eyes?
• Have you developed “basset hound eyes” as your eyes droop and the whites begin to show?
• Does your makeup no longer hide the “bags” or bulging pouches under your eyes?
• Do people ask if you’re tired—and you’re not!?

What are the results?

Results are a definite homerun! Appearing less grumpy, less tired, and more bright- eyed is the expectation! This is the best bang for your buck when considering any facial rejuvenation!

What can I expect?

It is important to understand that it is impossible to create “perfect eyes,” but Dr. Collini strives for a result that is natural in appearance, cosmetically pleasing, and more youthful. A blepharoplasty results in a fresher, more vibrant, well-rested look. The upper eyelid will be smooth, and all sagging will be gone. The area under the eye will be smooth and without bags or wrinkles. Moreover, a blepharoplasty should be a “once in a lifetime” operation, and the vast majority of patients will never need any additional eyelid rejuvenation. Facial aging, however, will continue.

What are my options?

• Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation: A lower-eye blepharoplasty is an easy procedure on the lower eyelid that is virtually undetectable once healed. A small incision is made along the line of the lower lashes, or directly below the pink part of the eye. Excess skin is then removed, and fat is rotated to its correct position or removed entirely. The area is made smooth and firm again before being closed with small sutures. Scarring will be nearly impossible to see, leading to spectacular results! Downtime can be 1-2 weeks depending on bruising and job duties. Improvement continues for 6 months!
• Upper Eyelid Rejuvenation: During an upper blepharoplasty, an incision is made in the fold of the lid, and excess skin and/or fat is removed. Very small stitches are used to close the incision, leaving minimal scarring. Downtime can be 1-2 weeks depending on bruising and job duties. Improvement continues for 6 months.
• Non-surgical upper and lower eyelid rejuvenation can be an option if you are the right candidate. Lasers and injectables do provide improvement in some. This can be discussed during your consultation.