Eyelid Surgery Information
Blepharoplasty, also known as cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a procedure to help rejuvenate the eyelid area. The procedure is gaining popularity and is often performed in conjunction with facelift surgery to achieve more dramatic results.
Before Surgery
Before the procedure, Dr. Pippin will speak with you about how the entire process works. This includes what you can expect on the day of your surgery and what you can expect in the way of recovery time. You may be asked to undergo some laboratory tests or a medical evaluation to ensure you are healthy enough to have the surgery. If you smoke, you should consider quitting to minimize potential complications. Also, you may need to stop taking certain medications two weeks prior to surgery. Dr. Pippin will be sure you understand all pre-operative instructions to help your procedure go as smoothly as possible.
Procedure Overview
On the day of your procedure, Dr. Pippin will likely give you a list of instructions to follow in the hours preceding your operation. It is important that you follow these instructions completely, as they are important to the successful outcome of your procedure. Depending on the type of eyelid surgery you are undergoing, and whether your treatment is being combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures, the surgery may take several hours to complete. Most blepharoplasty procedures are completed on an outpatient basis, so you can return home the same day as the procedure.
Recovery and Results
For most patients, recovery from eyelid surgery is quick and relatively painless. You can anticipate returning to work within 7 to 10 days if your surgery has no complications. You will be asked to keep your head and neck elevated for the first few days to help control blood flow. In some cases, your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze. After a week or so, you will go back and see Dr. Pippin to have your stitches removed. You will be prescribed painkillers and anti-swelling medication to help deal with any pain or discomfort during your recovery.
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