Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Men and women who have excess skin and puffiness in the upper or lower eyelids often appear angry or worn out even when they’re not. Eyelid surgery, also referred to as “blepharoplasty,” can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. This procedure removes excess skin from around the eyes and adjusts the tissues to provide patients with an alert and refreshed appearance.
An eyelid lift can correct some or all of the following:
- Drooping upper eyelids, which may hood the eyes and impair vision
- Puffiness in the upper eyelids
- Bags beneath the eyes
- Deep grooves under the eyes
- Drooping lower eyelids that show the whites of the eyes
- Loose skin and fine wrinkles around the eyes
Good Candidates for Eyelid Surgery in Wichita
Most middle-aged men and women are good candidates for upper and/or lower eyelid surgery. Individuals may also be candidates for a forehead lift or a combination of forehead lift and eyelid lift surgery if excess skin is the result of sagging in the brow. Dr. Conrad will determine the procedure(s) that will best meet your goals during your consultation at the Wichita office.
The Procedure
Eyelid surgery is performed using either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. For upper blepharoplasty, an inconspicuous incision is made in the natural crease of the lid. For lower blepharoplasty, the incision is made either just below the lash line or on the inside of the lower lid. Depending on the patient’s condition, Dr. Conrad may reposition fat deposits, tighten the underlying muscles and tissues, and remove any excess skin before closing the incisions with sutures. The entire procedure usually takes one to three hours to complete depending on the amount of correction needed.
Recovery
Recovery time will vary among patients depending on their ability to heal and as well as the amount of correction performed. Most patients feel comfortable and presentable enough to return to work within five to seven days. Following your surgeon’s instructions for postoperative care will help to speed the recovery time.
Results
The benefits of eyelid surgery are immediately apparent and will continue to improve over the coming weeks as swelling subsides. Patients will appear alert and refreshed and can be more confident about expressing their true emotions through their eyes. Excess upper eyelid skin will no longer limit vision, and the absence of fine lines and wrinkles will lead to a more youthful appearance.
If you are interested in upper or lower blepharoplasty, please schedule a consultation with our Wichita practice today. Call (316) 681-2227 or fill out our online contact form to get started. Dr. Conrad and his experienced staff look forward to helping you achieve a more youthful appearance with lasting results.