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Q - What is blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a plastic surgery procedure which can correct puffiness and depressions of the lower eyelids and excess skin and/or fullness of the upper eyelids. The procedure may be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both.
Q - Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty? Men and women who are looking to improve the appearance of the eyes, may be good candidates for blepharoplasty. Surgery may not be appropriate for patients with chronic dry eyes or certain thyroid disorders.
Q - What happens during the blepharoplasty consultation? During the consultation, your eyes will be examined, you vision tested and your tear production assessed. Your medical history will be taken and, after discussing your goals, details of the procedure will be explained including the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks, the costs, and so on.
Q - Where is blepharoplasty surgery performed? Dr. Moynihan often performs blepharoplasty in an outpatient surgical center. In some cases, upper eyelid blepharoplasty may be performed in his office-based facility.
Q - What is the anesthesia used for the blepharoplasty procedure? Sedation, local anesthesia, or general anesthesia may be used for blepharoplasty.
Q - How is blepharoplasty performed? For blepharoplasty, the incisions are made on the inside of the lower eyelids and within the natural creases of the upper eyelids. Fat of the lower eyelids may be repositioned, while excess skin and small portions of redundant muscle and fat may be removed from the upper eyelids.
Q - How long is the surgical time for blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty usually takes one to two hours to complete.
Q - Where are the incisions made for blepharoplasty? The incisions for blepharoplasty may be made within the natural crease of the upper eyelids and inside of the lower eyelids.
Q - Will I have scars after undergoing blepharoplasty? While blepharoplasty will leave scars, they tend to be small and very well concealed. Incisions on the upper eyelids are located with the natural crease and incisions on the lower eyelids are located inside of the eyelid.
Q - How much pain occurs with blepharoplasty? Patients may experience a tight or sore feeling in the eyelids after the blepharoplasty procedure, though medication can help to control discomfort.
Q - What is the recovery like after undergoing blepharoplasty? The recovery after blepharoplasty takes about one week. Patients may experience some discomfort which can be controlled with medication. Some swelling and bruising may also occur.
Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my blepharoplasty procedure? You should plan on being out of work for about one week after your blepharoplasty procedure.
Q - Can I exercise after my blepharoplasty procedure? Light exercise can usually be resumed in one week after the blepharoplasty procedure, though strenuous activities and exercise will need to be suspended for about two weeks.
Q - When are the stitches removed after the blepharoplasty procedure? Lower eyelid blepharoplasty does not require stitches. For upper eyelid blepharoplasty, the stitches are removed in one week.
Q - Are there any risks of undergoing blepharoplasty? All surgery carries some risk. For blepharoplasty, this may include the risk of cosmetic asymmetry, swelling, dry eyes, insufficient eye closure, and lid malposition or ectropion.
Q - Will my insurance company cover the cost of blepharoplasty? Patients will need to check with their own insurer. In general, blepharoplasty is usually not covered when performed for cosmetic purposes though some coverage may be available when treating sagging upper eyelids which interfere with vision.
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