If you have drooping eyelids or lateral hooding or puffiness of the upper eyelid area, an upper eyelid surgery might be a great option for you to consider. This procedure can help make your eyes look less tired and improve their overall appearance. Keep reading to learn more about what the procedure entails. 

Starting with the Basics

The most common type of upper eyelid surgery is called blepharoplasty; it involves removing excess skin from the upper lids area as well as fat deposits in the area if present. As we age and lose fat volume and bone structure from our faces, the tissue around our eyes begins to sag and droop. It can make us look tired, sad or angry even when we’re not! Eyelid surgery can help improve appearance by removing excess skin so that it lifts and defines the lid – giving you a more youthful look.  In many cases this can be performed in the clinic under local anesthesia.  Blepharoplasty is also an excellent adjunct procedure to be performed with other facial rejuvenation techniques.  After eyelid surgery, many people see an improvement in their vision after a few weeks as their eyelids are no longer blocking their peripheral vision and allow more light in to the eye itself.  Improved appearance, better vision – it’s a win-win!

Does the procedure require for you to say overnight? 

Even if you’re having general anesthesia and other procedures at the same time, you should be able to go home after your eyelid surgery. If you’ve had only topical or local anesthesia for your eyes, you will definitely be able to return immediately home, but will need some one to drive for you. 

The recovery period 

For 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure, you might have swelling and bruising around your eyes that gets worse before it starts to get better.

  • Swelling and bruising are normal after eyelid surgery.
  • The swelling and bruising can last for 1 to 2 weeks, but it’s likely that you’ll start to see improvement after 3-5 days.
  • Swelling and bruising will get worse before it gets better, so be patient!
  • Swelling may make your eyelids appear puffy or swollen. You might also have some redness around your eyes during this time period as well if there was any bleeding during the procedure (this is normal).

After the procedure, you’ll want to avoid heavy activity and anything that gets your blood pressure up. This includes exercise, sexual intercourse and even laughing too hard. The incisions can still open up and cause bleeding — so just be careful for 4-6 weeks after surgery.

Get Started with Texas Plastic Surgery 

There’s a lot to think about when you’re getting ready for upper eyelid surgery, but having all the information can make it easier. If you have questions about what to expect from your procedure or how it might work for you, talk to an expert surgeon! Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stallworth to get started.