Blepharoplasty FAQs
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that alters or removes excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper and lower eyelids to correct drooping, sagging, or puffiness. It is can be done for cosmetic purposes (tired appearance, under-eye bags, etc.) or for functional reasons (obscured vision due to sagging of upper eyelids).
How long is the procedure?
In the vast majority of cases, both upper and lower blepharoplasty done on both sides takes around an hour each. If combined with other procedures this can take longer. If patients are undergoing general anesthesia or taking relaxing medications before an office procedure, they will need to arrange for transportation to and from surgery as well as care overnight the first night after surgery.
What makes me a candidate for ‘functional’ blepharoplasty?
Patients with concerns about blocked vision from sagging upper eyelids can be eligible for insurance coverage with appropriate pre-operative testing (such as ‘tape testing’ performed by an ophthalmologist). Lower blepharoplasty is rarely covered by insurance unless associated with a separate medical diagnosis. Often times, patients with sagging eyelids have ‘brow ptosis’ as well, which is sagging of the eyebrow that weighs on the upper eyelid and needs to be addressed as well.
Where is surgery performed?
Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure that can be done in an office setting or operating room setting here in Lawrence, KS, based on the patient’s specific needs and desires. If combined with other procedures such as brow lift, it is done in the operating room under general anesthesia. If done in the office this procedure can be performed with local anesthesia (numbing injections) and relaxing medications.
What can I expect for recovery after surgery?
Full recovery after blepharoplasty can take up to 10-14 days after surgery, with bruising and swelling present around the eyelids that mostly resolves after a week. Activities such as strenuous physical activity can be resumed around 1-2 weeks after surgery once the majority of swelling and bruising have resolved.
Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty surgery?
Great question! If you have concerns about the appearance or functionality of the areas around your eyes, the best place to start is with a face-to-face conversation with a qualified surgeon such as Dr. McCann. Your eyelid and brow anatomy are meticulously analyzed in the context of your concerns to formulate an individualized plan that helps you look and feel as good as possible.