Eyelid Surgery Can Improve Your Appearance & Vision
Sagging eyelids not only age your appearance but can also interfere with your ability to see clearly. Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is designed to remove excess tissue, opening up the eye for an improved field of vision and a more youthful appearance. The team at our ophthalmology office in Denver, CO, believes in helping our patients achieve clear vision and the best quality of life. Dr. Stanley Cushing and Dr. Justin Coco listen closely to patients' concerns and goals in order to determine whether a surgical correction is recommended. We refer our blepharoplasty patients to trusted cosmetic surgeons in the area who can ensure the most natural-looking refinements.
Upper vs. Lower Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty can remove excess fat and skin from the upper or lower eyelids. Upper eyelid surgery is typically recommended for patients who wish to address:
- A tired-looking appearance
- Obstructed vision
- Hooded eyelids
- Loss of natural folds of the eyelids
On the other hand, some patients at our practice may require lower eyelid surgery. This procedure is appropriate for:
- Undereye wrinkles
- Dark circles
- Sagging skin
- Fatty deposits causing puffiness
In some cases, patients may wish to treat both the upper and lower eyelid for a comprehensive rejuvenation. Whether your eyelid surgery is performed for functional or cosmetic purposes determines if the procedure will be covered, either partially or fully, by insurance.
Is Blepharoplasty Right for You?
If you have drooping eyelids or dark bags around your eyes that are causing you to look tired or older than you are, you may benefit from eyelid surgery. It is important to note that patients considering this procedure must be in good overall health. Autoimmune diseases, bleeding disorders, or certain skin conditions may disqualify you as a candidate.
Blepharoplasty is designed to remove excess tissue, opening up the eye for an improved field of vision and more youthful appearance.
Before recommending blepharoplasty, Dr. Coco or Dr. Cushing will evaluate your medical history and conduct an examination to determine if any medical conditions, such as dry eye or glaucoma, are present. Typically, these patients are not eligible for eyelid surgery due to a higher risk of complications. Your doctor will also check for ptosis, which occurs when the eyelid muscle has become damaged or stretched. If that is the case, you will require ptosis repair which requires a small adjustment to your eyelid's lifting muscle. In some cases, excess skin may also be removed. Your doctor can determine which surgery is best for your unique needs.
What to Expect
Before the procedure, your surgeon will provide anesthesia to ensure your comfort and relaxation. They will then create an incision in the natural crease of the eyelid (for upper eyelid surgery), the lower lash line, or just inside the lower eyelid (for lower eyelid surgery). Excess skin and fat will be removed and adjusted to provide the most flattering results. For upper eyelid procedures, the surgeon may also tighten the surrounding muscles. The incisions will then be carefully closed with sutures or medical adhesive.
Typically, bruising and swelling will be present for about 10 to 14 days. Full results are generally not visible until several weeks after the surgery. Your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions for proper care and medications to minimize your risk of side effects.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact us online or call us today at (303) 777-3277 to learn more about blepharoplasty and find out if you are a candidate. Your safety and satisfaction are our priority. Our doctors will help guide you through the process so you can experience the best possible outcome.