Eyelid Lift in the Chicago Metro Area- Improve Your Eyelid Appearance Permanently

If you are bothered by the appearance of your eyelids or have difficulties when opening your eyes, eyelid lift may help you. Eyelid lift is clinically known as blepharoplasty. This is a cosmetic procedure done on the upper or lower eyelids to remove bagginess or puffiness. The procedure does not however correct dark under-eye circles, crow’s feet or fine lines around the eyes. Blepharoplasty may be combined with other facial treatments such as the forehead lift, laser resurfacing or dermal injections. Consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is a sure way to know if you qualify for the procedure. Cosmetic eye surgery is among the many procedures.

The eyelid aging process

As skin ages, it gradually loses its elasticity. A lack of elasticity plus the constant pull of gravity causes excessive skin to collect on the upper and lower eyelids.

Excess skin on the lower eyelid causes wrinkles and bulges. On the upper eyelids, an extra fold of skin can hang over the eyelashes and get in the way of seeing.

The fat that cushions the eyeball from the skull can also cause bulges in the upper and lower eyelids. The thin membrane that holds the fat in place weakens with age, letting the fat jut into the lids.

How is eyelid lift done?

Eyelid lift is performed in a hospital or in a licensed outpatient facility. The procedure is done under local anesthesia injected around the eye and intravenous sedation to relax and keep you pain-free. After you are sedated and fully relaxed, Dr. Bloch will make tiny incisions following the natural creases of your eyes. These inconspicuous incision patterns minimize scarring after recovery. Next, extra fat and loose skin are removed through the incision. Any stretched or loose muscles are also tightened with fine stitches. Cut skin is then closed with stitches. Your eyes will then be dressed with bandages.

What recovery should I expect after eyelid lift?

After the anesthesia wears off, you will be allowed to go home with the help of someone as your vision will not be clear. You will be able to see well after 2 to 3 days. The discomfort in your eyes will be managed by prescribed pain medication. Dr. Bloch may also prescribe antibiotics for infection control and creams to apply around your eyes during your recovery at home. Stitches will be removed after a week. Bruising and swelling around the eyes will disappear after about 4 weeks. You need to stay away from work for a few weeks to promote quick recovery. Wearing sun sheds when out in the sun or wind is advisable. You should also avoid reading or staring at your computer screen for long hours during your initial recovery. Blepharoplasty results are permanent and you don’t need another surgery for maintenance. Aging and increase in body weight may, however, compromise the good results, but that will not be as severe as it would have been the case before the surgery.