Our face is always the biggest betrayer of our advancing years. This is because, over time, exposure to the elements such as sunlight and pollution along with a natural decrease in our bodies' production of collagen and elastin means that our skin takes the full brunt of the aging process. Dryness, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and sagging are all common complaints as we age. The skin around our eyes is particularly thin and sensitive, and a loss of elasticity can cause it to droop and sag on both our upper and lower eyelids. In severe cases of eyelid sagging, the skin may hang so much that it interrupts the patient’s vision.

Getting older may be inevitable, but it doesn’t mean that you have to look at your age. Blepharoplasty can reduce the amount of skin on your upper eyelids, eliminating sagging and helping you to look more youthful.

Signs that you may be a good candidate for blepharoplasty

How do you know if you are a good candidate for blepharoplasty? Dr. LoTempio requires all patients to attend a consultation so that she has the opportunity to discuss your hopes for the procedure with you, and so that she can examine you to ensure that the surgery will prove beneficial for you. Patients who are considered to be good candidates for blepharoplasty typically have:

• Sagging upper eyelids

• Sagging lower eyelids

• Moderate to large bags under the eyes

• Excess skin on the upper or lower eyelids

The blepharoplasty procedure

Blepharoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can usually be performed with just a local anesthetic, meaning that you will be awake during your surgery. However, if you are particularly nervous about your procedure, you may be able to have a sedative to help you relax.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty

Dr. LoTempio will make her incisions along the natural fold of the eyelid, which will help to disguise the scar. The excess skin and fat are then removed, and the wound is closed using sutures.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty

Dr. LoTempio will make incisions on either the inside of your lower eyelid or just below the lower lashes. In either case, the scarring is as hidden as possible. Again, excess skin and fat are removed and the wound is closed using tiny sutures.

Recovery from a blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, but it is still essential that you give yourself adequate time to heal after your surgery. Dr. LoTempio recommends that patients take off from work for at least 5 days.

As with most surgeries, swelling, bruising, and redness are completely normal and to be expected, and this may last as long as ten days, after which the results of your surgery should be apparent. Any discomfort should be minimal, but medication to alleviate this may be prescribed if necessary.

Book your blepharoplasty with Dr. LoTempio

Our double board-certified surgeon, Dr. Maria LoTempio, understands that the effects of aging around the eyes can be devastating, and she can work to turn back the clock to achieve a more youthful appearance. Contact our offices to arrange your private consultation.