Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Houston, TX

During your consultation, Dr. Bachilo will ask about your health history, with special attention to any eye conditions, and examine your eyes. She will ask about any medications you are taking and document any allergies.

It is important that you communicate your goals and expectations during your consultation. This allows Dr. Bachilo to create a treatment plan that fits your specific needs. She will make treatment recommendations specific to you, describe the expected outcomes, explain any potential risks and instruct you on how to prepare for your procedure. Ask as many questions as you need to become fully comfortable with the procedure.

The procedure may be performed in an outpatient surgery center or hospital and takes one to two hours. If only an upper eyelid lift is being performed, it can be done in the office setting using light sedation and local anesthetic. Patients who choose in-office upper eyelid surgery report feeling comfortable throughout the procedure.

The blepharoplasty procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. This may include light sedation or general anesthesia combined with local anesthetic. Incisions are placed on the upper or lower eyelids, depending on whether upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or both are being performed. When upper and lower blepharoplasty are being performed in the same setting, the upper lids are usually done first. The upper eyelid incision is placed within the natural eyelid crease. Once healed, the incision is typically well hidden. The lower lid incision is placed just below the lash line.

The fat in the lid is then addressed, and the excess skin is excised. Excess fat may be repositioned, partially removed, or removed completely, depending on the patient’s anatomy. Dr. Bachilo will determine the right technique given your unique situation. Eyelid incisions will then be closed using absorbable sutures that do not need to be removed.

Dr. Bachilo will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your eyes and may prescribe antibiotics, eye drops, and pain medication as needed. You should not drive while taking your pain medication. You may use cool packs on your eyes and sleep with your head elevated on 3 to 4 pillows to help reduce swelling. Dark sunglasses should be used to reduce exposure to harsh sunlight and to protect your eyes.

Immediately following the procedure, it is normal to experience some light sensitivity, blurry vision, swelling, and bruising, all of which are temporary. You will go home after your procedure and follow-up appointments will be scheduled.  Dr. Bachilo will monitor your healing progress during those visits.

What Should Be Avoided During the Recovery Period After Eyelid Surgery?

• Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching the incisions to reduce the risk of infection.
• Using contact lenses.
• Strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
• Aspirin and other over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen.
• Smoking.

If you experience any symptoms such as significant bleeding, excessive eye pain, and severe vision problems, notify Dr. Bachilo and seek medical attention without delay.

The average recovery period is 10 to 14 days after blepharoplasty. Most patients return to work in just a few days. Makeup on the eyes may be used after 2 weeks.

Improvements in the appearance of the eyes may be visible soon after the procedure, but the final results are typically seen about one month after surgery. By this time, most swelling and bruising should be resolved.

Many patients enjoy long-lasting, refreshed results after blepharoplasty. It is important to avoid excessive sun exposure in order to help keep your eyes and face looking fresh. Make sunscreen use a routine in your daily life even after recovery.