Eyelid surgery in Peoria & Phoenix, Arizona
The Laser Blepharoplasty
When compared to other cosmetic surgical procedures, targeting the excess skin from the upper eyelids and fat from the lower eyelids are small procedures. However, the results of these surgeries are often the most dramatic and satisfying of any we perform. The technical name for the eyelid surgery is blepharoplasty. In our practice, we perform our blepharoplasties with the carbon dioxide laser.
Upper blepharoplasty in Phoenix, Arizona
Age, sun damage, and genetics predispose some people to loose, droopy, redundant skin in some cases can even hang over the eyelashes of the upper eyelids. Upward gaze may be impaired, and the eyelids actually feel heavy. Women particularly find this excess skin a nuisance as it prevents them from applying their eyeshadow properly. The overall effect of this excess skin is a tired and prematurely older appearance. Fortunately, this can be readily corrected with an upper blepharoplasty.
Using the laser as our scalpel, we carefully target the excess skin and fat underneath from the upper eyelid, creating a more youthful appearance. We prefer the laser because of its ability to stop bleeding and sterilize the surgical field as it cuts, reducing postoperative bruising, swelling and the possibility of infection. The entire procedure is done safely and comfortably under local anesthetic with additional conscious sedation. Recovery time is minimal with most of our patients returning to their normal activities in a few days.
Lower blepharoplasty in Phoenix, Arizona
Bags under the eyes are actually due to fat that has been pulled out of the orbit as the upper cheek descends with age. As with the upper eyelid, lower eyelid bags can make someone appear much older than they actually are. And again, this situation can be substantially improved by lower blepharoplasty.
Under local anesthetic with additional conscious sedation, we make an incision inside the lower eyelid and not through the lower eyelid. Through this transconjunctival approach, we can target the fat that forms the bags. The wounds heal without any sutures and recovery time is as equally short as the upper blepharoplasty
The Four Lid Laser Blepharoplasty
Often a patient would benefit from both an upper and lower blepharoplasty to enhance their appearance. Using the laser, we can perform blepharoplasties on all four lids in one combined procedure. Operating time is usually not significantly longer than an upper or lower blepharoplasty done separately and recovery time is also about the same.
Complications Of Laser Blepharoplasty
Laser blepharoplasty is a remarkably safe and effective surgery. But as with any surgery one can expect a variable amount of swelling and bruising, which usually resolves within five to seven days. More serious complications such as infection, bleeding, and damage to the eye while possible are rare, especially with the laser and the special metal eyeshields we use to protect the eyes. Postoperative pain is usually mild and easily controlled with the medication provided.
