Accent Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Any one or combination of the following conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for eyelid surgery:

• excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids
• loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids, perhaps impairing vision
• a puffy appearance to the upper eyelids, making the eyes look tired
• excess skin and fine, crepey wrinkles of the lower eyelids
• bags and dark circles under the eyes, often with a depression along the bony border of the lower eyelids
• droopiness of the lower eyelids, showing white below the iris (colored portion of the eye)

Aesthetic eyelid surgery can usually correct these problems, though other treatments may also need to be considered. For example, if the upper eyelid condition is accompanied by sagging of the eyebrows, then a forehead lift may be recommended. Smoothing of crow's feet may require chemical peeling or laser resurfacing procedures. Circles beneath the eyes caused by dark pigmentation may be treated with a bleaching solution or chemical peel. Dr. Craig can provide further information if you have an interest in any of these additional procedures.

For upper eyelid surgery, generally an incision is hidden within the natural fold of the upper eyelid and extends slightly beyond the outside corner into the laugh lines or other existing creases.

Through this incision, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed. Because the incision follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid, it will be well camouflaged when healed.

For lower eyelid surgery, often an incision is hidden just below the lower lashes. Through this incision, excess skin, muscle and fat are removed, or fat may be redistributed to eliminate puffiness or bulges. Other adjustments to correct special problems such as muscle laxity may be performed. As in upper eyelid surgery, the incision is well camouflaged by natural creases.

In some cases, you and Dr. Craig may decide that the best approach for removing excess fat is through an incision placed inside the lower eyelid. This technique requires no external incision, but it cannot be used to remove excess skin. A laser may sometimes be used in conjunction with this method to tighten the lower eyelid skin. Dr. Craig will often encourage the patient to undergo chemical peels or a transforming skin treatment such as Obagi® in addition to the surgical procedure.

It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.

Initially, you may feel a "tight" sensation around the eyes and some mild discomfort that can be controlled with oral medication. During the first 48 hours following surgery, patients experience varying degrees of swelling and bruising. Some patients find that mild swelling persist for several weeks, while others may see swelling resolve in as little as one week. Bruising typically disappears within seven to ten days. Within the first week you will be permitted to use makeup, if desired, to conceal any discoloration. Stitches are usually removed within a week of surgery.

Your vision may continue to be somewhat blurry for a few days or longer. Your eyes may be temporarily sensitive to light, and you may experience excess tearing or dryness. Dr. Craig recommends natural saline tears to help relieve any burning or itching or dryness. You may want to wear dark sunglasses for a couple of weeks to protect your eyes from wind and sun irritation.

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