Ancient Greek philosophers believed the eyes to be “the windows to ones soul.” To this day, the eyes are regarded as the most important feature in determining facial beauty, harmony, and expressivity. We evaluate people’s moods or attitudes by the look in their eye, and are drawn to those whose eyes sparkle. Gravity, heredity, and years of exposure to the sun conspire to rob us of the sparkle of our youth. Aging changes around the eyes, in particular, occur early and are readily apparent. The delicate eyelid skin stretches and sags, and fatty pockets around the eyes bulge. These changes make us appear more tired or older than we are. Not surprisingly, when what a person projects does not match what he or she feels, they look for solutions. Today’s answer is laser blepharoplasty, also known as the laser eyelid lift. This revolutionary procedure can tighten eyelid skin and reduce bags, restoring a younger, healthier, and more rested appearance.
How is laser blepharoplasty performed?
What about recovery?
What procedures are commonly combined with laser eyelid surgery?
How is laser blepharoplasty performed?
For laser eyelid surgery, we use the state-of-the-art UltraPulse 5000 C Aesthetic Laser. In our hands, this technology has replaced the need for scalpels and scissors, allowing surgery to be performed with a degree of predictability, precision, and control unmatched by traditional techniques. We use the laser to remove excess eyelid skin and fat with small incisions that are hidden in the fold lines of the upper eyelids. These hairline incisions hidden in the eyelid creases heal exceptionally well and are virtually invisible within a few months. For lower eyelid bags, the incision is placed inside the eyelid and bulging pockets of fat are removed. The laser’s intense beam of light energy seals blood vessels and nerve endings as it cuts, virtually eliminating bleeding and discomfort. The procedure is cleaner and quicker, and associated with much less swelling and bruising than traditional eyelid surgery. Laser blepharoplasty is performed under local anesthesia in our private ophthalmic outpatient surgery center. The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and one hour, depending upon which lids the surgery is being performed.
What about recovery?
Most patients experience no pain or discomfort following surgery. Patients are asked to use antibiotic drops for one week and apply cold compresses during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. These are later followed by warm compresses to improve blood flow to the area and aid in healing. Some swelling and bruising will be seen, typically resolving over 7-10 days. This varies from person to person, but many patients feel comfortable returning to work after a long weekend.
What procedures are commonly combined with laser eyelid surgery?
Many patients undergoing laser eyelid surgery elect to have laser resurfacing performed during the same treatment session. Commonly used around the eyes to erase fine lines and crow’s feet, laser resurfacing may also be used to minimize forehead creases, lip lines, and other signs of sun damage to the skin. In cases where the eyebrows are also droopy, a forehead lift may be performed.
