I do it. You do it. Everybody does it. There is a physiologic process that we all do totally unconsciously over 15,600 times each day; it is done to maintain the crystal clarity of your vision. This amazingly complex process is called “blinking”.

Unfortunately, the very anatomical structures that help you see so clearly can turn out to be your enemy when sagging eyelid tissue, both upper and lower, detracts from your appearance. Excess or lax skin can make you look tired, weary or angry all the time. Whether we like it or not, studies have shown that preferential treatment is given to more youthful looking people in work and daily activities.

Many facial skin problems thought to be related to aging are really related to sun exposure. Millions of dollars are spent annually on cosmetics that claim to rejuvenate the eye area. The selection is large because there is no good single topical answer. While sunscreen, limiting time in the sun, and using medical strength skin care products can help prevent many signs of “aging”, there is nothing you can do to prevent droopy eyelids, short of not rubbing your eyes excessively. Genetics (we can’t choose our relatives) also play a role in tired looking eyes. Fortunately, eyelid surgery can be done without much disruption to your daily routine. This surgery can restore a more youthful, bright and attentive appearance.

An evaluation of your face and position of your eyelids will determine the cause of the droopy eyelids. According to the source of the problem, the appropriate surgery can be discussed and planned. For upper lid droop, this can range from simple excision of skin and muscle, shortening or reattaching a muscle to its normal location, to raising the forehead. “Bags” under the lower lids usually require excision of a small amount of skin. Surgical fat sculpting is also done as needed. Bruising and swelling during the first 1-2 weeks, (sometimes only lasting a few days) can usually be well hidden by sunglasses.

Eyelid surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis. You are made comfortable, sedated and monitored while the appropriate surgery is performed. Intra-operative evaluation of lid height, contour, and eyelid closure as well as blink response may be done to ensure the best outcome. Each factor assessed during surgery are variables specific to each person’s unique anatomy.

Your surgeon should be well acquainted with the eye and tissue around it as assessment of each element mentioned above plays a role in preventing potential complications. Eye surgeons (ophthalmologists) are trained in eyelid surgery during their residency training and are at ease working around the delicate and sensitive eye area.

Eyelid surgery performed by an eye surgeon reassures the patient that the surgeon is qualified to perform the surgery, and can manage any potential complications. After all, the most important function of the eyelids is to protect the eye and preserve the quality of vision we all treasure.

At Aesthetic Surgical Arts, your eyelid surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist often in an onsite surgical arena. Management of the surgery arena provides the patient with a convenient, comfortable, safe surgical experience and the ability to fully control costs so there are no hidden costs for you.