How Long Does Eyelid Surgery Take?
Perich Aesthetics, Tampa Bay FL
〰️
Perich Aesthetics, Tampa Bay FL 〰️
With spring on the horizon and events starting back up, you may be considering finally getting that eyelid surgery done you have been thinking about. You have some questions however, like how long does the surgery itself take? How long is the healing process? And what will the results look like? We find that eyelid surgery is one of the most gratifying procedures we do here at Perich Aesthetics and Perich Eye Centers. Let’s help you see why!
What is eyelid surgery?
Let’s go over real quick what eyelid surgery is. At its core, eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, involves removing or repositioning excess skin from the upper and lower eyelids in order to reshape them. This can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, to minimize under eye bags and remove excess tissue in the upper and lower eyelid.
This is a very common surgery to have done. Perich Aesthetics specializes in both upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty designed to meet the aesthetic goals of our clients and prevent vision problems that can be caused by excess tissue.
Anyone who is bothered by the appearance of the tissue around the eyelids and/or experiences blocked peripheral vision because of this tissue may want to consider blepharoplasty to address these issues. Often, clients who have this procedure find that they have a more awake, youthful appearance.
Before moving forward, you should have realistic expectations for the surgery and make sure you are in good health. You must stop taking medications that cause bleeding, including ibuprofen, warfarin, naproxen, and aspirin, at least a few weeks before the procedure. You should also quit smoking, as it can increase your risk of complications.
How long does the surgery itself take?
The process starts with a physical exam and vision exam to ensure you are an appropriate candidate for surgery. Your surgeon will also take pictures of your eyelids from all angles to help plan the surgery based on your desired results. This happens prior to setting up your surgery day. During this time we will figure out what works best with your schedule to set the date and answer any questions you may have.
On the day of the procedure, the surgeon will numb the eyelid area and may provide medication to ease any anxiety associated with the surgery. Then, he or she will make tiny incisions along the eyelids, remove excess tissue as detailed in the surgical plan, and close the incision with sutures.
Depending on the extent of the surgery and which type of surgery or surgeries you opt for, will determine the actual length of the surgery. You can have both your upper eyelids and lower eyelids done in the same day if you are a candidate to do so. We can give you a better idea of just how long to expect to be with us that day during your consultation.
Although this is an outpatient procedure, you should plan to have someone drive you home afterward and stay with you overnight. Otherwise you will be in and out within the same day!
How long is the healing process?
As with all surgical procedures, an eyelid lift carries a small chance of complication. Some clients experience pain at the surgical site, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or dry, irritated eyes, but these problems typically resolve within a few days of surgery.
While eyelid surgery may seem like a small operation, it does require some recovery time. Some bruising and swelling is often expected, so you'll need to plan on taking a few days off work or other activities following the procedure. 48 hours following your surgery is when this swelling will reach its peak. After 48 hours, swelling should start to decrease. Within 10 to 14 days, bruising and swelling will clear up, and you will be able to see the final results.
In most cases, our patients will not need any bandages and will be able to open their eyes fully and completely following their surgeries. The only exception to this involves surgery for the removal of basal cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer. Most patients experience only minimal bruising which is non threatening to the eye or the surgical site. Any bruising is typically a cosmetic issue, which self resolves within two weeks.
Closely following post-care instructions can help facilitate a healthy recovery. Control discomfort and swelling by applying an ice pack to the eyes for 10 minutes every hour. Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and similar activities for at least a week from surgery, and refrain from smoking during that time. If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses for at least two weeks.
We will go over everything you need to know when you come in both pre, day of, and post checkup. You will not have to remember everything as we will make sure you have all the info you need readily available.
The goal of an eyelid surgery is to maintain the natural shape of your eyes, with attention to detail down to the finest points such as how the eyelids close and how much fat is retained. With the help of a qualified surgeon, you can also achieve a bright-eyed and youthful look by adding volume to your lower lids.
What will the results look like?
While this is a relatively minor procedure for most people, it's essential that the results look natural rather than overdone. After all, you only want to enhance your looks - not alter them completely.
Fortunately, skilled surgeons, like the team here at Perich Aesthetics, are experienced in creating results that look natural and flattering. They understand the underlying anatomy of the eyes and create subtle yet noticeable changes which will restore and enhance the eye area's appearance.
What makes Perich Aesthetics uniquely qualified to give you the most natural looking results, is the fact that Dr. Perich started as an eye doctor and still practices this today. Her background understanding all there is to know about the eyes themselves, ensure you get the best results possible in this highly delicate and intricate area. Combining this expertise with her passion for aesthetics means you are literally getting someone who can make sure your results are looking the most natural and yet advanced possible.
To truly achieve the most natural looking results with an eyelid surgery, we ask that you please bring a photo or two of yourself from at least ten to fifteen years ago so that we can get a complete picture of your face. A passport photo is also recommended in addition to these older photos. If you are seeking treatment because of a past event like accident or surgery please also bring photos from before the event occurred.
It's important to note that while a successful eyelid surgery can give you the look you've been hoping for, it should still appear natural.
If you’re ready to learn more about the eyelid lift procedure, get in touch with the team at Perich Aesthetics today. Our surgeons have been serving clients in the Tampa Bay area since 1991.
