Loose skin on the upper eyelids may droop almost onto the eyelashes and become a significant annoyance.  A bulging or baggy appearance of the upper or lower eyelid may result from loose, excess skin, as well as from excessive fat deposits within the eye socket.   Aging eyes can give the appearance of anger or fatigue.

In men, the same deformities produce a heavy, tired appearance.

Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift or eyelid surgery) can correct sagging eyelids, pouches beneath the eyes, and excess folds around the eyes.  This surgical procedure removes excess skin and fat on the upper and lower eyelids and is often performed in conjunction with other surgical procedures, such as facelift and browlift.  Whenever possible, Dr. Pollard achieves these results through a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, which is a lower lid procedure done through an incision hidden on the inside of the eyelid.

Eyelid surgery can be performed successfully under local anesthesia with deep intravenous or “twilight” anesthesia.
After you and Dr. Pollard decide to proceed, she will discuss with you the technique indicated for your individual surgery, the type of anesthesia to be used, the surgical facility, any supportive surgery, and the risks and costs associated with the procedure.
Be aware that this procedure will not remove crow's feet or other wrinkles, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why should I get my eyes done?
Many people elect to undergo blepharoplasty before or instead of full-face restoration.  Because the eyelids tend to age ten years sooner than the forehead and neck, there is little reason to wait.

What will the recovery be like?
There is minimal discomfort following surgery.  This is an outpatient procedure, after which you return directly home.  You may experience some swelling and bruising, which last from seven to fourteen days.  The swelling can be reduced by keeping your head elevated and applying cool compresses.  The sutures are removed within seven days of your surgery.  Avoid wearing eye makeup until a couple of days after the stitches have been removed, or for the period of time recommended by Dr. Pollard.

Also:

• Avoid wearing contact lenses for two weeks following surgery (they may still feel uncomfortable for a while after that);
• Avoid driving until your vision has returned to normal and your eyes have stopped watering;
• Avoid  strenuous activity for at least four weeks following surgery.
• Most people are able to read or watch television within a few days, and most people feel ready to return to work after a week to ten days following surgery.

How can I prepare for the surgery?
Maintain good health, quit smoking and avoid excessive exposure to sunlight, as well as the light from tanning beds.  Stop taking all aspirin-containing medications, Vitamin E, and all herbs at least 14 days before surgery.  Be sure to discuss with Dr. Pollard and the anesthesiologist all medications that you have been taking.

How long before I can return to work?
Everyone heals at a different rate, but most people return to work in from seven to ten days

When will I see results?
You will see results immediately, but do not try to evaluate the success of your surgery during your early recovery.  Imbalances between the two sides of your face are common at first, due to swelling and variable rates of recovery.  Full healing of any incision on the body can take from six to nine months or more.

Do people of color have a higher risk of keloids and unsightly scarring?
Although unsightly scarring and keloids rarely develop after blepharoplasty, Dr. Pollard does have expertise in managing the full range of surgical issues faced by people of color.

Will this surgery remove my dark circles, remove crow’s feet, or lift my sagging eyebrows?
None of the above, but Dr Pollard might recommend an additional procedure to raise the eyebrows.  Certain creams can decrease the appearance of dark circles, and crow’s feet can be treated with Botox.  Dr. Pollard’s aesthetician will suggest the proper treatment before and after your surgery.

What about possible complications?
Complications – or unexpected problems that can occur during or after surgery – will not affect most people who undergo this procedure.  The primary complications associated with any operation are bleeding during or soon after the procedure, infection, or an unexpected reaction to the anesthetic.  Risks and potential complications are best discussed at the time of your consultation.  Be sure to give your complete medical history to Dr. Pollard, so the she can assess your risks and discuss them with you.

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