All these ravages of time can not only affect vision but also impart a weary look to the most energetic person. Fortunately, the recent surgical techniques for the eyelids can now restore (or prolong) the freshness of one's looks.

Blepharoplasty is one the most popular and efficient means of restoring to your face this dynamic happy look while maintaining its natural expression. Men and women of all ages resort to this technique.

How Does Blepharoplasty Work?

The procedure requires local anaesthesia and is performed in an outpatient clinic. It lasts about 30 minutes per eyelid. For upper eyelids, an incision is made in the natural fold of the skin and goes slightly beyond the corner of the eye, disappearing in the local wrinkles. For lower eyelids, two types of surgery are performed: transconjunctival blepharoplasty and musculo-cutaneous blepharoplasty. Since transconjunctival blepharoplasty is performed inside the eyelid, on the conjunctiva side, it enables to remove the small lumps of fat under the eyes without leaving any scars on the skin. When there is also excess skin, musculo-cutaneous blepharoplasty will be resorted to. An excision is performed under the ciliary line through which the excess skin will be excised.

Is This the Best Solution for Me?

People with low tear production, who suffer from glaucoma, retinal detachment or thyroid diseases are not good subjects for blepharoplasty.

It is important to have realistic expectations about the end result. Your condition may require treatment of the upper or lower eyelids. By examining your face and taking into account your medical history, Dr. Bernier will be able to determine the ideal approach for you. Blepharoplasty can be advantageously combined with (or replaced by) an endoscopic frontal lift, a facial lift, a Botox™ or laser treatment, or even a peeling.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blepharoplasty

Does the procedure require special preparation?
As with any surgical procedure, the surgeon will make sure that your health condition is favourable. Special visual tests will be required and you will need to avoid certain drugs, foods and supplements that induce bleeding.

When will I be able to resume my normal activities?
After the procedure, your eyes will be slightly swollen; it is then advisable to apply cold packs for 24 to 48 hours to limit ecchymoses (bruises). You will need to sleep in a semi-seated position for a few days to limit swelling. This procedure is considered practically painless. Antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent infection. You will be able to move around and wear sunglasses immediately after surgery.

You will however need a driver to bring you back home. It will also be necessary to avoid strenuous activities during the first 24 to 36 hours. The sutures will be removed 4 or 5 days later. You will be able to go out in public one week later. Make-up can be used to cover up any small traces of the procedure persisting. You will however need to slow down and avoid wearing contact lenses for 2 weeks. Excessive watering or dryness of the eyes can also occur during the first days. Artificial tears will then be prescribed. The sun and direct light will temporarily be more irritating, so sunglasses will be useful.

Can complications arise?
As with any procedure, cosmetic surgery involves a certain degree of risk. Achieving success with such a project requires a suitable subject and an experienced surgeon. Since blepharoplasty is a surgical treatment, your body will need to recover from the procedure before you are able to fully appreciate its benefits. Rest a lot. As the swelling disappears, you will be able to appreciate the youthful change operated on your face.

This is a procedure that consists in removing excess skin and bags around the eyes so as to give a shadowy and withered appearance a fresher, rejuvenated look. This procedure is often associated with a facial and/or frontal lift.

For More Information on Blepharoplasty

For more information on blepharoplasty and a relevant evaluation, please feel free to contact Dr. Élise Bernier and her team.