Various factors influence how your skin ages and whether you develop sagging skin or bags around your eyes. These factors can include genetics, gravity, skincare, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is a facial cosmetic procedure that has grown in popularity. During a consultation, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Olivier Deigni can explain how eyelid surgery in Cypress may improve your self-confidence and possibly your eyesight.
Eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure that improves the overall appearance of the eyelids. The surgery can be done on the upper lids, lower lids, or both for cosmetic and functional improvements. One of the cosmetic improvements includes removing excess skin in the upper eyelids that can make you look older or impede your vision.
When blepharoplasty is performed on the lower eyelids, it minimizes puffiness and bags that contribute to a tired appearance. Overall, the surgical procedure tightens loose or sagging skin around the eyes, which makes you look younger and more rested.
Fat removal can reduce the appearance of bags under the eyes, but it cannot eliminate dark circles or remove crow’s feet and other facial wrinkles. Eyelid surgery may also improve vision when excess skin and fat on the upper eyelids reduce your visual fields.
Most cosmetic surgeries are not covered by health insurance. However, when an ophthalmologist or optometrist can demonstrate that drooping or sagging skin in the upper eyelids impedes visual fields, your insurance policy may help cover part of the cost of eyelid surgery in Cypress.
Before surgery, Dr. Deigni will recommend the necessary lab testing and medical evaluations to ensure you are a good candidate.
You may have to stop taking certain medications or adjust your medication schedule so it does not interfere with anesthesia or increase the risk of complications during surgery. Some medications, like anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
It is also crucial to stop smoking six weeks before and after surgery. Nicotine impairs healing, increases the risk of complications during surgery, and increases the risk of infection. This includes all nicotine delivery systems, such as nicotine gum and patches, vaping, and chewing tobacco.
Eyelid surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home, so you must find a trusted friend or family member to pick you up and drive you home. Someone will have to stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours after eyelid surgery in Cypress.
Another part of your preparation is to have a vision evaluation by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. The doctor may certify that upper eyelid drooping has impeded your vision, which can help justify the surgery to your health insurance provider.
The surgery may involve upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both depending on your goals. Surgery on the upper eyelids involves incisions along the natural crease. This way, the scar tissue will be hidden when your eyes are open. Dr. Deigni removes excess skin and protruding fat using this access before closing the incisions.
During a lower blepharoplasty, incisions are made below the lower eyelash line or in the conjunctiva as needed. Excess skin and fat are removed through the incision or redistributed. The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour and may take two hours when the upper and lower eyelids are done during the same surgery.
Immediately after the procedure, very small sterile bandages may be in place, but the eyes are typically not covered. Your vision may be a little blurred when ointment was used to prevent the area from drying.
Most people say their eyelids feel tight or sore after surgery, and they could feel sticky, dry, or itchy for about seven to 10 days. It is normal for bruising and swelling to occur. Dr. Deigni may prescribe eye drops to help with dryness or medication to reduce pain.
You should keep your head elevated while sleeping or lying down to reduce swelling, improve healing, and relieve discomfort. After surgery, you will receive detailed instructions on how to care for the area. Follow these instructions carefully to help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.
You will need to avoid certain activities and environments as the eyes heal. For example, heavy weightlifting or bending over at the waist should be avoided, as they increase blood flow to the eyes and can stress the surgical incisions. Keep all follow-up appointments and alert Dr. Deigni when you experience any unexpected changes or problems.
Bagging or sagging skin around your eyes can make you look older and tired. Sometimes, excess skin or fat can reduce your peripheral vision, making it more difficult to drive or participate in sports. In this case, your insurance provider may help pay for some of the cost of surgery. We encourage you to contact us online or call our office today at 281-721-4373 and schedule a consultation to learn more about eyelid surgery in Cypress.
