Exploring Blepharoplasty with Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology
January 30, 2025
When you look in the mirror, are you bothered by excess, heavy skin on your upper lids, puffiness in your lower lids, or both? If so, you are not alone. Many individuals experience these common signs of aging at one point or another. At Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology, our surgeons are skilled in performing blepharoplasty surgery to help address these issues.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, also called eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the eyelids. It can also be done to improve vision in cases where excess skin is interfering with the line of sight. This procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on your individual goals.
Why Consider Blepharoplasty?
People may consider blepharoplasty for various different cosmetic and functional reasons, depending on their unique concerns. Some common motivations include:
Cosmetic Reasons: Blepharoplasty can be performed to address signs of aging, such as sagging or drooping lids, puffiness under the eyes, and uneven eyelids.
Functional Reasons: Eyelid surgery can also be performed to address excess skin on the upper lids, which can droop into the field of vision. Loose skin or fat around the eyes can also cause discomfort, rubbing against the eye and making it difficult to wear contact lenses or glasses.
What to Expect with Blepharoplasty
The first step toward eyelid surgery is a consultation with one of our ophthalmologists. This meeting will allow you to discuss your goals, concerns, medical history, and more. A personalized treatment plan will then be created for you.
Blepharoplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia. Before your procedure, a numbing medication will be applied to your eyelids for your comfort. The specific steps of your procedure may vary depending on your unique goals. However, generally, the procedure will follow these steps:
Upper Blepharoplasty
An incision is created along the natural crease of the upper lid, which allows for scarring to be hidden post-surgery. Through this incision, muscle, skin, and fat are removed and manipulated, and the incision is closed with sutures. Oftentimes, this particular procedure can be performed in the office instead of a surgery center.
Lower Blepharoplasty
An incision is created just below the eyelashes or inside of the lower eyelid, in which case there is no visible scarring. Excess fat, skin, and muscle are removed, and sutures are used to close the incision.
After this procedure, bruising and swelling may occur, which should subside within 14 days. Our team will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to help ensure your eyes heal correctly and quickly. Scars from the procedure may take a few months to fade, after which they will be barely noticeable.
Who is a Good Candidate?
You may find blepharoplasty beneficial if you have droopy upper eyelids or puffiness under your eyes, have excess skin on your upper lids that impair your line or vision, or both. This procedure is ideal for healthy, non-smoking individuals who are looking for a more refreshed, alert appearance. However, individuals with specific uncontrolled chronic conditions such as diabetes or eye disorders like glaucoma or dry eye may not be candidates. To learn more about this procedure and if it is right for you, please contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty is associated with possible risks and complications. These include dry eyes, bleeding infections, scarring, and more. You can have an in-depth discussion with your ophthalmologist during your construction appointment.
Schedule a Consultation
Blepharoplasty offers many benefits for those who are ideal candidates. If you are considering eyelid surgery, please contact Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology today to schedule a consultation. We are happy to serve Falls Church, VA, Washington DC, Arlington, Alexandria, Annandale, Springfield, and beyond.
