Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is used to reduce the amount of excess tissue around the eyes that often results in a tired appearance. Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin from the upper lid and sometimes a small amount of fat. Lower blepharoplasty generally involves removal of skin as well as fat that may be producing bags under the eyes. Occasionally, the fat alone may be removed, resulting in no visible scars. These procedures may either be done alone or in combination with other procedures such as brow lift or face lift. Recovery is about 2 weeks.

FAQS about Blepharoplasty

I am bothered by the sagging skin around my face and eyes. How do I know if I should have a brow lift, facelift, or eyelid surgery?

Blepharoplasty is intended to reduce the amount of excess and sagging skin around the eyelids. Sagging skin around the eyes is associated with aging and can contribute to a tired appearance. Lower blepharoplasty can correct “bags” under the eyes.

Blepharoplasty does not correct facial wrinkles nor will it smooth wrinkles on the forehead or lift sagging eyebrows. Blepharoplasty will not remove “crow’s feet”, eliminate dark circles under the eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows .The best way to find out which procedure is right for you is to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Houser contact our office.

What kind of scarring should I expect after blepharoplasty / eyelid surgery?

The goal is to keep visible scarring to a minimum. In some patients, fat alone may be removed, resulting in no visible scarring. In other patients, scarring is carefully hidden in the creases of the eyelids. However, no two patients are exactly alike. Dr. Houser will discuss your planned surgery with you, during your private consultation in our (Westerville) Columbus, Ohio office.

When can I return to work following blepharoplasty?

The recovery time following blepharoplasty / eyelid surgery is usually about two weeks. Some patients are able to return to work sooner than this, others may require extra time away from work.

What type of anesthesia will I need during blepharoplasty / eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery, as with most facial cosmetic procedures, requires only twilight sedation with local anesthetic. This allows for a rapid recovery and less nausea and fatigue after surgery.

Our office has a fully equipped operating room that is certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilitates (AAAASF) and is fully compliant and accredited. Most of our plastic surgery procedures are performed in our facility which keeps your experience private and in the company of our staff with whom you will have already become accustomed. We are conveniently located adjacent to Mt. Carmel /St. Ann’s Hospital.

I have noticed that not all surgeons performing blepharoplasty / eyelid surgery in Ohio are board certified. Why should I choose a plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS)? Is this important?

An ASPS member surgeon has fulfilled the following requirements:

• Has at least five years of surgical training and a minimum of two years of plastic surgery training.
• Is board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
• Is trained and experienced in all plastic surgery procedures, including breast, body, face and reconstruction.
• Is peer-reviewed for safety and ethical standards prior to attaining the honor of active membership.
• Only operates in accredited facilities.

Why is it important to choose a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

Many physicians who perform cosmetic procedures will claim board certification, but it is important to clarify which board. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is a part of the American Board of Medical Specialties and has been in existence since 1937. Certification by this board signifies that the surgeon has completed an approved plastic surgery residency, has passed a comprehensive written examination, and has passed an oral examination. Following this, he or she is then required to maintain certification through case submissions, continuing medical education and written examinations. This rigorous process ensures that those who identify themselves as a diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery are held to the highest standards of patient safety, patient satisfaction and ethical behavior.