Serving the area surrounding Modesto and Sacramento, Heritage Eye Associates offers blepharoplasty to address drooping, baggy eyelids. Contact us to learn more.
Heritage Eye Associates
445 West Poplar Street
Stockton, California
Ph. (866) 922-0405
Fax. (209) 465-2562
[ View Map ]
As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and begins to sag. The skin of the face is particularly affected because it is exposed to the sun, airborne pollutants, and other damaging factors. The skin around the eyes is some of the most sensitive on any part of the body, and over time the eyelids often begin to droop, grow puffy, and develop bags that give the impression of age or fatigue. Sagging eyelids can even begin to obstruct peripheral vision. To correct this condition, Heritage Eye Associates offers Modesto and Sacramento-area residents blepharoplasty (cosmetic eyelid surgery). This safe, effective surgical procedure is an excellent option for most patients concerned about the appearance of drooping, baggy eyelids.
As with most other cosmetic procedures, good candidates for blepharoplasty are at least 18 years old. Most patients who undergo the procedure are 35 or older, but in some cases a hereditary tendency toward drooping eyelids can make it appropriate for younger patients. It is important to have realistic expectations for blepharoplasty, realizing that the procedure is only a treatment for the skin of the eyelids. It is not intended to treat crows' feet and wrinkles around the eyes; instead, our patients from Modesto, Sacramento, and elsewhere often choose to combine blepharoplasty with skin rejuvenation treatments that offer excellent wrinkle reduction results.
Certain medical conditions make blepharoplasty unsafe. In particular, patients who suffer from glaucoma or dry eye syndrome should not undergo blepharoplasty, as those conditions can be complicated or aggravated by eyelid surgery. The shape and condition of the bone structure around the eyes is also an important consideration, and it occasionally makes surgery impossible.
The goal of blepharoplasty is to trim away excess skin, fat, and tissue from the eyelids through incisions concealed in the natural folds of the eye. Depending on the patient's needs, the upper lids, the lower lids, or both can be treated can be treated. The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
Excess skin on the upper eyelids commonly blocks the patient's peripheral vision, which can create a hazard when driving. To correct this problem, our surgeons trim away excess skin from the lid through a discreetly hidden incision before lifting and reattaching the remaining skin. In some cases, the muscles controlling the eyelids may be repositioned and tightened as well during blepharoplasty.
The lower eyelids commonly accumulate fatty tissue, creating unsightly eye-bags. In lower eyelid surgery, both the skin and the fat that cause this issue are removed through concealed incisions below the lower lashes. The skin is tightened and lifted to create a smooth, firm surface below the eyes, and muscles can also be tightened as necessary.
Blepharoplasty is a relatively minor procedure compared to many forms of cosmetic surgery. At the same time, it produces very natural-looking and attractive results. Incisions from blepharoplasty take several weeks to heal completely, but most patients are able to return to work within 10 days of surgery. It is important to avoid heavy lifting, exercise, and other activities that increase blood flow to the eyes until blepharoplasty healing is complete. Some swelling and redness is normal, especially during the first week of recovery. The eyes may feel tight and dry during this period, but eye drops and ointment typically help with these symptoms. It is also a good idea to rest the eyes, avoiding activities like reading and watching television.
After healing, the vast majority of patients who visit our clinic near Modesto and Sacramento for blepharoplasty are thrilled with their surgical results. Simply correcting drooping eyelids can take years off a person's appearance, making them appear healthier, more alert, and better rested. Any residual scarring is typically well hidden, leaving the face smooth and youthful.
If you are concerned about having drooping eyelids and a tired appearance, contact Heritage Eye Associates today. Serving Sacramento, Modesto, and surrounding communities, we can use blepharoplasty to give you a more youthful and attractive appearance.