Q: What is blepharoplasty?
A: Blepharoplasty is a type of surgery that removes excess skin from the eyelids. This procedure is often done as eyelids stretch and the muscles supporting them weaken with age, causing sagging eyebrows, droopy upper lids and bags under the eye.
Q: Who might be a suitable candidate for blepharoplasty?
A: Blepharoplasty might be an option for individuals with baggy or droopy upper eyelids, excess skin of the upper eyelids that partially blocks peripheral vision, excess skin on the lower eyelids, or bags under the eyes.
Q: What are the benefits of blepharoplasty?
A: Blepharoplasty can reduce sagging and droopiness, improving peripheral vision if it has been impacted by excess skin. The surgery can also make eyes look younger and more alert. Aesthetic improvements can make individuals look refreshed and awake, giving a more youthful appearance.
Q: What does the recovery process for blepharoplasty entail?
A: The recovery process can vary, but generally, patients should plan for about two weeks of downtime. After surgery, swelling and bruising are to be expected, along with potential dry eye or irritation. However, these side effects are typically mild and temporary.
Q: How long does an upper blepharoplasty procedure last?
A: An upper blepharoplasty procedure generally takes less than one hour to complete. This doesn’t include preoperative and postoperative time, and patients typically go home the same day of their surgery.
Q: How long do the results of blepharoplasty last?
A: The results of blepharoplasty are not permanent. Generally, a patient can expect the age clock to continue ticking after the procedure. It is reasonable to expect to enjoy about 10 years of improved appearance before noticing recurrence of the initial issues.
Q: Can blepharoplasty be performed alongside other procedures?
A: Yes, blepharoplasty can be performed at the same time as other procedures such as a brow lift, face-lift or skin resurfacing. It can also be combined with ptosis surgery, canthoplasty, and other facial rejuvenation procedures if needed.
Q: Does the approach to blepharoplasty surgery differ by ethnicity?
A: Yes, the approach to blepharoplasty can differ by ethnicity. For example, the technique can vary between Asian eyelids and non-Asian eyelids. The ultimate goal is to enhance the eye’s appearance without compromising a person’s natural characteristics.
Q: What are the risks associated with blepharoplasty?
A: As with any surgery, there are risks including reaction to anesthesia and blood clots. Specific risks of eyelid surgery may include infection, bleeding, dry and irritated eyes, difficulty closing the eyes, noticeable scarring, injury to eye muscles, skin discoloration, temporarily blurred vision or, rarely, loss of eyesight.
Q: Will insurance cover blepharoplasty?
A: Insurance coverage might depend on whether the surgery repairs a condition that harms vision. Surgery only to improve appearance probably won’t be covered by insurance.
If you are interested in learning more about how a blepharoplasty procedure can benefit you, give Dr. Alton Ingram’s office a call at (615) 431-3710 or visit www.ingramcosmeticsurgery.com to schedule your complimentary consultation in Nashville, TN.
