Surgical procedures

Eye lift

Eye lift surgery, or blepharoplasty, is used to correct drooping upper eyelids and lower eyelid bags. Some people have eyelid surgery to correct problems that are a result of aging, while others have inherited traits that cause them to seek treatment in their 20s or 30s. In upper eyelid surgery a crescent of excess skin is removed. Underlying fat is reduced. The skin is carefully stitched so that a fine scar results in the natural eyelid crease.

The upper eyelid technique may also be used to create a double fold in Asians.

Dr. Pugash will discuss two different approaches to lower lid surgery. In one technique skin and fat are removed from the outside, leaving a fine scar just below the eyelashes. In another, the fat is removed from behind the lower lid, leaving no scar on the outside. In either case the goal is a natural, more youthful lower eyelid without evidence of previous surgery. You and Dr. Pugash will decide on the technique that is best for you.

Eyelid surgery may be carried out in combination with other procedures such as brow lift and facelift surgery. Depending on the circumstances the operation can be done in the office under local anesthesia, or in a hospital or private clinic setting.

A forehead lift may be recommended if the upper eyelid condition is accompanied by sagging of the eyebrows. Hollowing around the bony orbit below the eye can be addressed with fat grafting.

Potential complications of eyelid surgery include reactions to the anesthetic, infection, bleeding, poor scarring, injury to eye or the muscles of the eye or eyelid, pulling down of the lower lid, unevenness, or other unsatisfactory aesthetic result. Temporary dryness or tearing may occur after surgery.

Patients are usually presentable within 2 to 2½ weeks after surgery.

Surgery of the eyelids can produce very pleasing facial rejuvenation, leaving little or no evidence that any surgery has been carried out.

Dr. Pugash will provide complete care following your surgery so you remain comfortable, return quickly to all your usual activities, and obtain the best possible result.