Eyelid surgery is performed on adults of any age to correct problems associated to aging or to receive treatment for inherited traits. People that may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery might have excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids, loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids and possibly impairing vision, a puffy appearance to the upper eyelids that make the eyes look tired, excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelids, bags and dark circles under the eyes that are often with a depression along the bony border of the lower eyelids, or droopiness of the lower eyelids that show the white below the iris. Eyelid surgery can normally fix these types of problems, but sometimes an eyelid surgery may be needed in combination with another treatment.

Your plastic surgeon will ask you exactly what you would like to see changed during your personal consultation. You will be expected to discuss your medical history with the plastic surgeon at this point, disclosing especially if you have high blood pressure, thyroid problems, or diabetes. These medical conditions may increase the risks with eyelid surgery. You will also need to discuss any types of eye conditions you have had. After the plastic surgeon learns all your individual factors, can you then begin to hear the possible options that are available to fit your desired results.

When performing upper eyelid surgery, an incision is hidden within the natural fold of the upper eyelid and extends slightly beyond the outside corner into the laugh lines or other existing creases. Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed through this incision. The incision should heal well because it follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid.

Lower eyelid surgery is performed by making an incision, which is also hidden, but below the lower lashes. The excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed, or fat may be redistributed to eliminate any puffiness or bulges. If muscle laxity is an existing problem, this will be performed also. The incision will heal well in lower eyelid surgery also because the natural creases camouflage it.

It is also possible for the plastic surgeon to make an incision inside the lower eyelid to remove the excess fat. This type of eyelid surgery does not require an external incision, but it cannot be used to remove excess skin. A laser may be used along with this technique to tighten the lower eyelid skin.

Recovery time for eyelid surgery will vary amongst different individuals. Directly following your surgery, you should rest with your head elevated and may be instructed to apply a cold compress to your eyelids. A tight sensation and mild discomfort will result from the surgery, as well as swelling and bruising. Typically the bruising and swelling disappears within 7-10 days, but some patients will find that it is more persistent. Vision may appear blurry for a few days, and an increased sensitivity to lights. Either tearing or dryness may accompany burning or itching feelings. Normal activities can be resumed within ten days or less.

Potential complications associated with eyelid surgery include hematoma, an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal and infection and reaction to the anesthesia. Decreased sensation of the eyelid skin or impaired eyelid function can occur that will need to be corrected with additional surgery.

The result of eyelid surgery creates a more rested and refreshed look. Several weeks will be needed to see the final results of the surgery and it will take months for the incisions to fade. Eyelid surgery lasts a long time but can be affected by your lifestyle factors and heredity. Removal of fat from your eyelids is permanent and the results long-lasting. Natural aging may cause the skin to sag and additional improvements may be an option at a later point.