Blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia, which means the patient is awake but does not feel pain. The surgeon makes small incisions along the natural creases of the eyelids, and then removes or repositions excess skin, muscle and fat. The incisions are closed with fine sutures, and the patient may have some swelling, bruising and discomfort for a few days after surgery.
The results of eyelid surgery are usually long-lasting, but can be affected by aging, sun exposure and lifestyle factors. To maintain results, patients are advised to protect their eyes from the sun, use moisturizers and eye creams, and avoid smoking and alcohol. Eyelid surgery can improve the appearance and function of the eyes, but it cannot change their shape or treat other conditions such as crow’s feet, dark circles under the eyes or drooping eyebrows. For these problems, patients may need additional procedures or treatments, such as Botox, fillers, laser resurfacing or brow lifts.