Eyelid Lift: A Comprehensive Guide
Upper blepharoplasty, often referred to as an eyelid lift, is a surgical technique aimed at correcting sagging skin, excess fat deposits, and drooping eyelids, which can not only obscure one’s natural beauty but also impair vision in severe cases. By skillfully sculpting and recontouring the upper eyelid region, this procedure offers patients the opportunity to achieve a more youthful, rested appearance while enhancing their overall facial aesthetics. In this blog, we explore the intricacies of upper blepharoplasty, from its techniques and benefits to what to expect during recovery, providing valuable insights for those considering this transformative journey towards revitalized eyes and enhanced confidence. In addition, provide you with an account of Dr. Bachilo’s actual patient who has undergone this procedure exactly 3 months ago.
Understanding Upper Blepharoplasty: Upper blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to address sagging or drooping eyelids, excess skin, and fatty deposits that can accumulate in the upper eyelids over time. These natural signs of aging can not only make you appear older but also contribute to a tired or sad expression, even when you are well-rested and vibrant.
The Procedure: The procedure typically begins with a detailed consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Olga Bachilo. During this consultation, Dr. Bachilo will assess your medical history, discuss your aesthetic goals, and evaluate the condition of your eyelids to determine if you are a suitable candidate for upper blepharoplasty.
On the day of the procedure, Dr. Bachilo will once again go over the plan, and will start on the marking of the skin using surgical measuring instruments to ensure proportions between both eyes and aesthetic look. Afterwards, you will be administered local anesthesia to guarantee your comfort throughout the surgery. Dr. Bachilo will then make precise incisions along the natural creases of your upper eyelids. These incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring once the healing process is complete.
Once the incisions are made, excess skin, muscle, and fat are carefully removed or repositioned to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. The underlying structures are then meticulously recontoured to create a smoother, more youthful eyelid contour.
Recovery and Results: Following upper blepharoplasty, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort around the treated area. However, these side effects are temporary and can be managed with proper post-operative care, including rest, cold compresses, and prescribed medications.
Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a week or two, although strenuous exercise and activities should be avoided for a few weeks to allow for optimal healing. As the swelling subsides and the incisions heal, you will start to notice the remarkable transformation in your eyelid appearance.
The results of upper blepharoplasty are long-lasting, providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance to the eyes. Not only will you look more awake and vibrant, but you will also experience a boost in self-confidence and overall satisfaction with your appearance.
Q&A with Dr. Bachilo’s blepharoplasty patient
Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa: Thank you for agreeing to provide our patients with your experience during the surgery. Please tell us about yourself, and why have you decided to undergo this procedure?
Patient: I am a 67-year-old mother of two, who has always wanted to do this procedure due to my hooded eye lids that have gotten worse over the years. It was difficult to apply make-up, read laying down, sometimes even wearing reading glasses. And of course, who enjoys to look at a tired-looking face with puffy eyes in the mornings.
GPSMS: What has made you choose Dr. Bachilo as your surgeon?
P: Her bedside manner. I was never rushed or ridiculed. She listened to me, asking questions specifically related to me, and not once I felt like a number. In fact, what made me solidify my decision was her remark: “You raise your eyebrows to help with your eyesight, don’t you, and it causes deep creeses in your forehead.” That alone showed me her expertise by making this spot-on observation.
GPSMS: How was the process of booking and paying for your procedure?
P: Easy. Dr. Bachilo’s surgical coordinator was so thorough and knowledgeable when addressing my concerns, and went line by line answering my questions. Went over my medications, gave detailed instructions for aftercare, and a timeline of the recovery process. You can say with 100% certainty she truly loves what she does, and cares for her patients. Because procedure was in-office, I saved a lot on operating room and anesthesia costs, and only took care of the surgical fees. Also received 5% discount, because I paid in cash.
GPSM: Please describe how you felt going into the procedure and after it concluded
P: Nervous, and anxious about the pain. Was worried if I would feel anything. Was scared that my eyeballs may get injured. It is very nerve-racking thinking that sharp instruments will be so close to my eyes. I arrived at 9:30am, and my ride picked me up at 12pm, the whole process, including numbing and paperwork took a little more than 2 hours. In fact, we went to a nursery to by some plants on the way home, so that should tell you that I felt no pain, and could see everything perfectly.
GPSM: Please summarize how you felt during the procedure?
P: The most uncomfortable part was the numbing, since I felt tiny pricks of anesthesia being injected in my eyelid. Other than that, it was very comfortable. Dr. Bachilo and her assistant kept on checking on me, and it felt like a social visit, she was telling funny stories from her past as a medical student, and experience traveling Europe as a child, so it kept me entertained and eased my mind. The only physical sensation that I experienced was pulling and slight pressure, and absolutely no pain.
GPSM: Why have you opted-in for an in-office procedure, rather than the surgery center with general anesthesia?
P: (laughing) Dr. Bachilo made me feel so safe and comfortable, I did not even have a second thought. It is a relatively short surgery, only 1.5 hours or so, and usually there are some risks associated with general anesthesia, and at my age, I did not want to take any chances. Plus, the cost. I saved a few thousand dollars by omitting OR and anesthesia fees.
GPSM: Please describe your recovery process
P: First 3 days were probably the least pleasant ones. I was not in pain, but was very aware that something had been done to my eyes, as I felt pressure from being swollen. I slept in a recliner, so my head was elevated, and had to wear sunglasses for the first 24 hours, as my eyes were a bit sensitive to light. I only took Tylenol PM first night, and did not take any pain medicine after that. I did wash my face the next day, and it significantly improved my well-being and alleviated tightness in my upper face.
The bruising and inflammation started to subside after 3rd day, and I could see the improvement in my vision. About 6 days later I saw Dr. Bachilo for the removal of the stitches. It was a relatively painless process; I just felt some pressure as she carefully cut the threads and pulled them out.
GPSM: How do you feel 3 months post your surgery?
P: I get emotional looking at my face, because I cannot believe how life-changing this procedure was. I do not have to strain my eyes or constantly raise my eyebrows to improve my vision. I look so much younger and rested. The shape of my eyes stayed the same, so they look as they did 40 years ago, which is so special. I cannot thank Dr. Bachilo and her team enough for improving the quality of my life, thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa: Thank you for sharing your experience with our patients. We hope you continue to enjoy your results and we wish all the best!
In conclusion, upper blepharoplasty offers a safe and effective solution for addressing the signs of aging around the upper eyelids, helping you achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. If sagging eyelids or excess skin are affecting your confidence and self-esteem, consider consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Olga Bachilo, to explore whether upper blepharoplasty is right for you. With advancements in cosmetic surgery techniques, achieving brighter, more youthful eyes is now more accessible than ever before.
