Some people have a real problem with upper eyelid droopiness. In some cases, it might be hereditary; other times age or poor health habits are to blame. Whatever the cause, drooping and sagging eyelids are an unsightly and bothersome problem that many people have to face. But it’s not just the upper eyelids that cause problems. The lower lids can lose elasticity and form bags and pouches which are also unbecoming. Puffy under-eye bags often make you look tired and years older than you actually are.

BLEPHAROPLASTY

Rather than spend the rest of one’s life resigned to this problem, there is an operation called blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) that can help. In a simple surgery that lasts just sixty to ninety minutes, the eyelids can be refreshed and restored to a more youthful appearance. If you opt for a blepharoplasty, you will receive IV sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.

THE PROCEDURE & RECOVERY

Incisions will be made in the crease of the upper eyelid or inside the eyelid and/or just under the eyelashes for lower eyelid surgery. The surgeon will then begin to remove the correct amount of skin and fat, following which the incision(s) will be closed by the use of a very fine needle. These stitches will be removed a few days after surgery. During recovery, patients may have some bruising and/or swelling. This will subside after a week and one can return to regular duties at about this time. Blepharoplasty corrects droopiness, pouches and bags, and also removes the upper eyelid “hoods” that can interfere with vision. Imagine what it will be like to apply make-up to fresh, new, tightened eyes!

CHOOSING A SURGEON

Dr. Kyle Choe of The Choe Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a top facial plastic surgeon and the eyelid lift is one of his specialities. For further information please call 757.389.5850.