Surgical removal of upper-eye bags, also known as upper blepharoplasty, is performed on 100,000 people per year, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Set realistic expectations and choose a qualified facial plastic surgeon to help ensure a good outcome.
Function
Looking younger, more alert and well rested are a few of the reasons people have upper eyelid surgery. Severely sagging skin of the upper eyelids can also impair vision and is called ptosis. The Mayo Clinic explains that aging causes loss of elasticity and thinning of the delicate skin around the eyes, resulting in drooping of the eyelids and bulging of fat padding that creates what are commonly called bags. Upper blepharoplasty can correct these issues.
Methods
Surgeons approach upper blepharoplasty surgery through various methods. In traditional blepharoplasty, a surgeon makes an incision with a scalpel, then removes excess fatty tissue and loose skin and uses sutures to close the incisions, explains the American society of Plastic Surgeons.
During laser surgery, the surgeon uses a laser to make a cut in the upper eyelid to remove any excess skin and fat. He then uses tissue glue or a few dissolving sutures to close the incision. There is some swelling, but generally little bruising after the procedure. According to the University of Illinois Department of Opthamology and Visual Sciences, use of a laser shortens the length of surgery and causes less bleeding and pain. When done by an expert, this procedure appears to be as safe as traditional blepharoplasty.
Blepharoplasty is usually done in an outpatient setting, under local anesthesia. The surgeon injects medication to numb the eyelids and may administer intravenous medication to help the patient relax.
Risks
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure and carries risks. Infection or reaction to anesthesia are possible. Some patients suffer from temporary numbness of the eyelid skin, dry irritated eyes, temporary vision changes such as double vision, inability to close the eyes completely and scarring. The Mayo Clinic reports that blindness due to bleeding behind the eye is rare but possible.
Recovery
The patient is taken to the recovery room and monitored for complications after surgery. Usually patients can leave later that day to recuperate at home. A patient can't drive herself homes, however, so she should make prior arrangements for someone to drive her to and from surgery.
Patients usually experience minimal pain after surgery, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A doctor may prescribe a pain reliever. Aspirin, ibuprofen such as Advil or Motrin, other NSAIDs and herbal supplements may increase bleeding and should be avoided.
Incisions will be red and visible at first, and the eyelids will be swollen and may feel numb for several days. Swelling and bruising will be similar to having black eyes and can last a week or more after traditional blepharoplasty. Applying cold compresses and elevating of the head will reduce swelling and bruising.
A doctor will remove stitches, if used, in four to five days.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, patients must follow the pre-surgical and post-operative instructions for optimal recovery.
Outcome
A patient should set realistic expectations in order to experience a satisfactory outcome, according to the Mayo Clinic. The traditional blepharoplasty patient can expect to get around independently by the second day, and, with the use of sunglasses, may feel comfortable going to the store by day three to four. With makeup, the patient could return to work in one week. Scars can take six months or longer to fade.
This procedure cannot remove dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles or change sagging eyebrows. Results include a younger-looking, firmer eye area with a refreshed appearance. Results usually last five to 10 years.
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