BLEPHAROPLASTY - Cosmetic Surgery of the Eyes
The eyes account for a large part of the expression of the human face: they project an array of emotions including happiness, sorrow and fear. Yet the eyes themselves are virtually expressionless structures. It is the contour of the skin - the tissue, muscle, fat, hair and lashes around the eyes - that conveys expression. Wrinkles and deep lines as well as puffiness of the lids begin to develop with the passage of time. Exposure to the sun and genetic predisposition can also be contributing factors. The result can be marked changes in expression causing a tired and/or older appearance. These physical changes can be one of the first areas of concern for those in their late 30's and 40's. Blepharoplasty can correct most, if not all, of these problems.
Blepharoplasty can correct sagging eyelids, pouches beneath the eyes and excess folds around the eyes. This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess skin, muscle and fat of the upper and removal of fat from thelower eyelids.
BEFORE SURGERY
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken by Dr. Chu in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. A thorough examination of the eyes and face is made to determine the most effective surgical approach. The amount, distribution, and type of excess skin to be removed is carefully noted. Dr. Chu will discuss the method of anesthesia to be used, the actual procedure, what results might realistically be expected, and possible risks and complications.
BLEPHAROPLASTY OF THE UPPER EYELID
Blepharoplasty procedures are performed by Dr Chu using mild sedation & local anesthesia. Before surgery Dr. Chu will carefully mark the excess tissue to be removed whie the patient is in the supine and sitting positions. The excess tissue is then numbed using local anesthesia.
Following natural lines and creases of the upper lid, very fine incisions are made from the inner to the outer edge of the eyelid. The excess skin, muscle & fat is removed layer by layer to sculpt each eyelid in successive fashion to create a more pleasing and youthful contour and reverse the sagging of skin and 'hooded' appearance caused by gravity. Sutures are placed in the incision line and will remain in place for 5-7 days.
TRANSCONJUNCTIVAL LOWER EYELID BLEPHAROPLASTY
Many patients have puffiness of their lower eyelids due to bulging fat pads. Although heredity plays a major role in the formation of this appearance, seasonal allergies affecting the nasal passages & eyes contribute greatly to this condition. This condition leads to a tired sad appearance in the afflicted patient. In the past, to correct this problem, surgeons would remove skin & muscle of the lower eyelids to access these enlarged fat pads. Unfortunately this procedure would frequently lead to a noticeable blunting of the outer corners of the eyelids, the undesirable "round eye effect". Even more distressing was the effect of causing of drooping or "bowing" of the lower lid margins which led to chronic "welling" of tears in the lower eyelids. In the mid 1980's an ophthalmologist devised a transconjunctival technique which minimized these problems. After local anesthesia is used to numb the area, an incision is made inside the lower eyelid through the mucosal lining(the conjunctiva) and the fat is then removed. No sutures are used to close the incision and no visible scar is left. Most importantly, no change in the natural and unique shape of each patient's eyelid occurs. Following surgery most excess skin due to bulging fat will conform & retract. If there remains excess skin or wrinkles due to chronic sun damage, Dr. Chu may employ laser resurfacing to tighten and improve the texture of the lower eyelid skin.
FOLLOWING EYE SURGERY
Antibiotics may be continued for several days following these eye surgeries. Sutures are removed in 5-7 days. Some swelling and bruising occur but subside in a few days. Dr. Chu will prescribe ice compresses and/or eye exercises to reduce swelling and bruising. Women may be allowed to use eye makeup one week after surgery but are cautioned to cleanse the area thoroughly after each use. Dr. Chu determines when normal activities can be resumed, usually in 3-5 days following surgery, however strenuous exercise must be avoided for two weeks following surgery.
After blepharoplasty, excessive drying of eyes can occur, but this condition can be alleviated with medication. Temporary symptoms such as numbness and itching may occur during the healing process. Final result's may not be seen for several months following surgery.
Actual patients of Dr Chu
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