Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Austin, TX

Blepharoplasty Treatment Details

Eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes one to two hours. Anesthesia is administered for the patient’s total comfort. The upper and lower eyelids can be treated individually or together.

To treat the upper eyelids, the surgeon makes the incisions in the natural creases and folds of the lids. This keeps scarring to a minimum. Through the incision, the surgeon removes excess tissue and skin. Fat may be removed or repositioned to improve the contours of the lid. Loose muscle and skin are removed. Any other modifications to correct a structural defect — such as a skin graft — can be made. The remaining skin is tightened and the incision is closed with fine sutures.

To treat the lower eyelids, the surgeon makes the incisions along the lower lashline and natural creases under the lid. Excess skin, fat and muscle are removed. If the goal of the operation is to correct undereye puffiness due to excess fat, the incision may be made inside the lower eyelid and fatty material removed.

After the incisions have been closed, small surgical bandages may be placed. Initially, the eyelids may be swollen and bruised, and the eyes may feel dry or itchy. Special ointment can reduce dryness and itching, and cold compresses help the bruising and swelling.

The eyelids generally heal quickly and serious side effects are rare. The sutures used are mostly self-dissolving. Because of the placement of the incisions, scarring is very minimal.