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the sun and genetic predisposition can also be contributing
factors. The result can be marked changes in expression causing
a tired and/or older appearance. These physical changes can
produce anxiety and actual visual impairment. Today a remarkable
surgical technique called blepharoplasty has been developed
to eliminate many of these problems.
Blepharoplasty can correct sagging eyelids,
pouches beneath the eyes and excess folds around the eyes.
This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess skin
and fat on upper and lower eyelids and is often done in conjunction
with other surgical procedures including facelift, eyebrow
and forehead lift.
 Before
Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order
to evaluate your general health. A thorough examination of
the eyes and face is made to determine the most effective
surgical approach. The amount, distribution and type of excess
skin to be removed is carefully noted. Dr. Edds discusses
with you the anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results
may realistically be expected, and possible risks and complications.
An examination by an opthamologist may be recommended. Preoperative
directions may include the elimination of certain drugs that
contain aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of increased
bleeding. Antibiotics will be prescribed for a few days prior
to surgery to prevent infection. The areas to be excised are
marked and photographs are usually taken before and after
surgery in order to evaluate the final results.
The
Procedure
Blepharoplasty is performed in our facility under either oral
sedation or IV sedation. It can be done under general anesthesia
or local IV sedation. Premedication is administered to relax
you. Dr. Edds, following natural lines and creases, makes
very fine incisions from the inner to the outer edge of the
eyelid. In selected cases, incisions can be made inside the
eyelid. The upper eyelid is worked on first with the incision
made in the fold of the lid. On the lower eyelid, the incision
is made directly below the eyelash. Excess fat and skin are
then removed from the underlying compartments. The amount
of fat excised is determined by the degree of protrusion of
fat when pressure is gently applied to the area. Small sutures
are used to close the incision and special ointments and dressings
may be applied. The procedure can take from one to two hours,
depending upon the extent of the surgery.
Another procedure, transconjunctival blepharoplasty,
may be performed for patients that have fat deposits below
their lower eyelid but do not need skin removal. An incision
is made inside the lower eyelid and the fat is then removed.
Small sutures are used to lose the incision and no visible
scar is left. This procedure is usually performed on patients
with more elastic skin.
Following
surgery
Antibiotics will be continued for several days following these
eye surgeries. Sutures are removed in about a week. Some swelling
and bruising occur but subside in a few days. Dr. Edds will
prescribe cold compresses to reduce swelling. You may be allowed
to use eye makeup ten days to two weeks after surgery, but
are cautioned to clean the area thoroughly after use. Dr.
Edds will determine when normal activities can be resumed;
however, strenuous exercise must be avoided for several weeks
following surgery. After blepharoplasty, excessive drying
of the eyes may occur, but this can be alleviated with Lacrilube
eye ointment. There may be sensitivity to bright light and
wind, in which case the use of dark glasses is indicated.
You can minimize complications by carefully following
directions given by Dr. Edds.
If you are interested in learning more about
this procedure, please call our office at (270) 926-9033
and we will be happy to answer questions about the
procedure itself or about procedure cost and financing.
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