Common Cosmetic Surgery Questions

Eye Lift Procedure FAQs

Q. What does an eye lift procedure (blepharoplasty) entail?
A-1. Upper eye lift procedures: Excess skin, muscle, and fatty tissue that tend to accumulate are removed from the upper eyelids through an incision that is hidden in the natural creases above the eyelids. Even without makeup, these scars are very difficult to see over time.
A-2. Lower eye lift procedures: Fatty tissue is removed often through a transconjunctival approach, meaning the surgery is performed through the inside part of the eyelid so that no external visible scar is created. If excessive skin or muscle folds are found below the eye, an incision may also be made just below the base of the lashes. As this incision heals, the fine scar should also become barely visible.

Q. Will I be awake during my eye lift procedure?
A. Blepharoplasties are performed under local anesthesia and sometimes with some light sedation in our state-of-the-art office suites (thus the downtime after the surgery is minimal). Local anesthesia renders the body insensitive to pain without affecting consciousness. Minimal or light sedation involves the administration of small amounts of medication to lessen anxiety or agitation in order to make the procedure easier to tolerate. With this type of sedation, the patient is still relatively awake and able to communicate clearly at all times.

Q. What can I expect during the healing process from my eye lift procedure?
A.

We ask that someone drives you home.
Bruising and swelling is common after surgery and can take about a week before it is less noticeable.
Cold compresses are used in the first 48 hours to minimize the bruising and swelling.
Pain medications are rarely necessary but for some people who experience mild discomfort, Tylenol is usually adequate.
Your eyes may feel sticky, dry or itchy for a week so eye drops and ointments will be given to keep the eyes moist and comfortable.
Stitches which are usually of the absorbable type are typically dissolved by 1 week.
After approximately 1 week post-surgery patients may wear makeup. Contact lenses can usually be worn in about 2 weeks.
Adherence to the postoperative directions will help to ensure the best results from the surgery.

Q. How long will it be before I can return to work?
A. Most people return to work in about a week.

Contact Dr. Prasad to answer all of your cosmetic surgery questions. You may schedule a consultation appointment at your convenience. Let us help you to regain a natural and youthful appearance so you can face the world – looking your best! Our staff will be happy to assist you with hotel accommodations and travel arrangements in New York City or Garden City, New York if needed. Please note, that we have several members of our staff who are fluent in Spanish should this be desired.