Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess tissue and skin from the upper or lower eyelids (or both) for smoother, more alert eyes.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) in Richmond, VA
Overview
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty or an eyelid lift, is a plastic surgery to remove the excess skin, tissue, and fat from the eye area that causes sagging eyelids or bags under the eyes. Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS, performs eyelid surgery in Richmond, VA, on the upper eyelids to fix droopy skin that can impair vision, the lower eyelids to treat bulges under the eyes, or both if needed by the patient. After eyelid surgery, many patients enjoy looking younger, refreshed, and more awake. Blepharoplasty is commonly performed on patients over 35 years old, but younger patients should not hesitate to schedule a consultation if they feel eyelid surgery may help them.
During/After Surgery
Eyelid surgery is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility. It generally takes up to two hours for both the upper and lower eyelids to be addressed. Following surgery, the area around the eyes will be bruised and swollen. You’ll want to apply ice packs, keep your head elevated, and apply medicated eye ointment for a few days. Patients often mention that friends and family tell them they look great but often can’t put a finger on what is different. These subtle yet dramatic results restore a softer, more youthful appearance.
Eyelid Surgery FAQ
Will there be visible scars?
Can eyelid surgery address crow's feet?
Will my eyes be irritated after surgery?
Will my vision improve from blepharoplasty?
Will there be visible scars?
After eyelid surgery in Richmond, VA, with Dr. Bridges, scarring will not be visible because of where the incisions are placed. In the upper eyelid, the incision follows the natural crease of the eye. The lower eyelid incision will run just under the eyelashes or inside the eyelid. Scarring will be inconspicuous.
Can eyelid surgery address crow's feet?
Eyelid surgery will reduce puffy bags and excess skin and may help minimize crow’s feet. However, to truly treat crow’s feet, one will need a different approach. BOTOX® injections and procedures such as a brow lift are better options.
Will my eyes be irritated after surgery?
Some patients will experience dryness and minimal irritation following surgery. If these occur, we can recommend ointments and eye drops to assist during the healing phase. Patients should protect their eyes against wind and sun irritation for the first several months by wearing dark sunglasses.
Will my vision improve from blepharoplasty?
If anything, eyelid surgery actually helps improve vision for many patients. Not only does it restore a fresh, younger look from a cosmetic standpoint, but it also eliminates the excess skin that may have been impairing vision. It is important to select a skilled surgeon who is an expert in eyelid surgery. We take great care during this surgery so that the eyes themselves are left untouched and unharmed.
