Blepharoplasty: Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty is surgical modification of the eyelid. Excess tissue such as skin and fat are removed or repositioned, and surrounding muscles and tendons may be reinforced. The upper eyelids can be both a medical and cosmetic procedure, however, the lower lids are almost always cosmetic. By removing the excess tissue, your eyelids are opened wide to provide you with a more youthful appearance [1].

Blepharoplasty is sometimes needed for functional reasons. When an advanced amount of upper eyelid skin is present, the skin may protrude over the eyelashes and cause a loss of peripheral vision. The outer and upper parts of the visual field are most commonly affected and the condition may cause difficulty with activities such as driving or reading. In this circumstance, upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed to improve peripheral vision [1].

Recovery times can vary from patient to patient, but in most cases, the swelling and bruising that is initially visible, is not noticeable in two weeks time. Please be patient however, as it may take several months for the final results to truly appear.

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blepharoplasty