Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty to remove sagging eyelids is performed for two main reasons. The first is for purely cosmetic reasons to improve your appearance, and the second is to improve your eyesight as sagging or drooping eyelids may inhibit your vision.
Functional Eyelid Surgery
Functional eyelid surgery is done if there is loose skin from the upper eyelid that droops down and interferes with your vision making it difficult to drive or perform other tasks. Drooping eyelids may make it difficult or uncomfortable to wear glasses and if the lower eyelid is sagging, you may not be able to wear contact lenses. Excess folds of eyelid skin rubbing together can cause constant irritation and you may experience muscle strain or headaches because you overuse your forehead muscles in order to see properly.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
If sagging eyelids make you look older, eyelid surgery may provide a younger appearance and boost to your self-confidence. Your eyelids may start to sag because of the natural aging process as the skin loses elasticity. Younger people may develop sagging eyelids because of too much exposure to the sun.
If you are not sure that you are a candidate for blepharoplasty the best thing to do is schedule an appointment with Dr. Steven Dayan who can advise you on how to proceed. If you don’t have a medical reason for a blepharoplasty but are interested in cosmetic eyelid surgery our specialist can advise you on what to expect.
What to Expect During Surgery
A blepharoplasty may be done with a local or a general anesthesia. If you have local anesthesia we may also give you an oral sedative to help you relax. You will stay awake during the procedure, and the area surrounding your eyes will be numbed. If you require general anesthesia, you will be given an intravenous injection that will put you to sleep during the procedure.
The day before the procedure we may ask you to follow certain steps that may include:
- Discontinuing any anti-inflammatory medication including over the counter painkillers at least 10 days before the surgery.
- Eating a light meal the night before the surgery and nothing on the day of the procedure.
- Do not wear makeup on the day of the surgery.
Dr. Dayan will give you instructions about aftercare. If you need cosmetic or functional eyelid surgery, there is no need to delay. Contact the office of Dr. Dayan in Chicago, IL today to schedule your consultation!
