Is Eyelid Surgery Right for Me?

Our eyes are the windows to our souls and are often one of the first things people notice upon meeting us. If the appearance of your eyes is making you look fatigued, upset, angry, or perhaps just older than you feel, you’ve got options in the Summerville area. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a great option for anyone who wants to rejuvenate the appearance of their upper and/or lower eyelids. But are you a good candidate for eyelid surgery? Here’s what to know about upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, and what you can expect with Dr. Widenhouse.

Am I A Good Candidate for Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery?

You might be a good candidate for eyelid surgery of the upper and lower eyelids if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Bulging pockets of fat or fluid
• Sagging or drooping excess skin
• Apparent lines and wrinkles
• Dark circles
• Protruding bags
• Upper eyelids that obscure vision

Eyelid surgery is sometimes combined with a brow lift, a procedure designed to smooth the forehead skin and lift sagging eyebrows. Alternatively, you may need a brow lift instead of upper eyelid blepharoplasty. Dr. Widenhouse can determine the appropriate surgical plan.

Although eyelid surgery is known to be a cosmetic procedure, there can be more to it. If you experience sagging from excess skin in your upper lids that obstructs your visibility, the procedure could be covered by your insurance, as it justifies a medical need. In this case, if you remove excess eyelid skin, it can improve your vision.

What Can I Expect?

The procedure takes one to three hours to complete, depending on the scope of the work. Eyelid surgery can be done under local or IV sedation. Dr. Widenhouse will help determine which option is best for you. During upper eyelid surgery, he will excise droopy eyelid skin and lift sagging upper eyelids. Any incisions are hidden within the natural crease of your eyelids. During lower eyelid surgery, he will create incisions inside your lower eyelids to lift and rejuvenate puffy eyelids and bags of fat. The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance.

After surgery, your eyes will feel swollen and tender. You’ll need to avoid driving or excess sun exposure. Every patient is different, and some experience very little discomfort. It may be a week until you feel comfortable returning to work.

Full recovery takes about a month or longer, though the initial results will be apparent before then. Scarring is minimal, if it exists at all, and it is easily camouflaged by the natural folds of your eyelids.

Eyelid Surgery in Charleston, SC

To find out if eyelid surgery is right for you, contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation. Port City Plastic Surgery serves Charleston, Daniel Island, Mount Pleasant and Summerville, South Carolina from two locations in Charleston and Daniel Island.