Brown, blue, green, hazel, grey, black. Eyes come in any number of colors and are truly the windows to our thoughts and feelings. Using the contour of the skin, which is comprised of tissue, muscle, fat, hair, and lashes around the eyes, our deepest emotions are revealed. Despite our best efforts to prevent aging, facial wrinkles, deep lines, and puffiness of the eyelids develop naturally over time. Exposure to the sun and genetic predisposition can also contribute to wrinkles and lines. These changes around the eyes can cause anxiety over appearance and actual visual impairment along with making a person look older and tired.

BLEPHAROPLASTY - SURGERY OF THE EYE
Blepharoplasty can correct droopy eyelids, the pouches beneath the eyes, and the excess folds around the eyes. This procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat on upper and lower eyelids. It is often done in conjunction with other surgical procedures including facelifts, and brow and forehead lifts.

BEFORE SURGERY:
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. A thorough examination of the eyes and face is made to determine the most effective surgical approach. The amount, distribution, and type of excess skin to be removed is carefully noted. Dr. Engen describes the anesthesia to be used, the process of the surgery, and realistic results as well as possible complications. Preoperative directions may include the elimination of drugs containing aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of increased bleeding. Antibiotics may be prescribed prior to the surgery to prevent infection. The areas to be removed are marked and photographs are usually taken before and after the surgery in order to evaluate the amount of improvement.

BLEPHAROPLASTY SURGICAL PROCEDURE:
Blepharoplasty can be performed at Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center, an outpatient surgical facility, or a hospital, depending upon the preference of both the patient and Dr. Engen. It can be done under a general or local anesthesia. To ensure comfort throughout the procedure, medication is given to the patient prior to surgery.

The surgeon makes fine incisions from the inner to the outer edge of the eyelid, following natural lines and creases. In certain cases, incisions are made inside the eyelid. The upper eyelid is worked on first with the incision made in the fold of the lid. On the lower eyelid, the incision is made directly below the eyelash or in the conjunctive (the pink lining of the inner eyelid). Excess fat and skin are then removed from the underlying compartments. The amount of fat excised is determined by the degree of protrusion of fat when pressure is gently applied to the area. Small sutures (stitches) are used to close the incision and special ointments and bandages are applied. The procedure can take from one to two hours, depending upon the extent of the surgery.

Transconjunctival blepharoplasty is another procedure that is performed on patients who do not need skin removed, but who have fat deposits below their lower eyelid. An incision is made inside the lower eyelid and the fat is then removed. Small sutures are used to close the incision and no visible scar is left. This procedure is usually performed on patients with more elastic skin.

FOLLOWING THE SURGERY:
Antibiotics may be continued for several days following these eye surgeries. Sutures are removed within a week. Some swelling and bruising occur but disappear in a few days. The physician may prescribe ice compresses and/or eye exercises to reduce swelling and regain mobility. Women are allowed to use eye makeup ten days to two weeks after surgery but are cautioned to cleanse the area thoroughly after each use. The physician determines when normal activities can be resumed. Strenuous exercise must be avoided for several weeks following surgery.

After blepharoplasty, excessive dryness of the eyes can occur, but this condition can be alleviated with medication. There may be sensitivity to bright light and wind, in which case the use of sunglasses is indicated. Sensory changes such as numbness and itching may occur during the healing process. Final evaluation may not be possible for several months following surgery.

RESULTS:
Blepharoplasty enables a patient to have a more awake, rested appearance. Without the excess skin, fat, and tissue surrounding the eye, the eye can open completely and look more alert and youthful.

WILL INSURANCE PAY FOR THIS SURGERY?
Some insurance companies will pay for either part of, or all of the costs of surgery if it is necessary to improve visual impairment. Each insurance carrier is different. It is recommended that individuals check with their own agents to determine if there is coverage.

If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic surgery of the eyes, please contact Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center at 801-379-2900 and we will be happy to answer your questions.

Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center `1735 N State St. Provo,UT