EYELID SURGERY Blepharoplasty
Merheb Surgical Arts IN Peoria & Pekin, IL
Although the eyes themselves are often expressionless, the skin surrounding them plays a crucial role in conveying emotions. Factors such as tissue, muscle, fat, hair, and eyelashes all contribute to the wide range of facial expressions we make. As we age, wrinkles, deep lines, and puffiness develop. Additionally, factors like sun exposure, smoking, and genetics can accelerate the aging process, leading to noticeable changes in our expressions.
Drooping upper eyelids can result from various factors, including eyebrow ptosis (laxity of the eyebrows, which may be asymmetrical), loosening of the upper lid skin, and bulging fat. Similarly, aging lower eyelids can manifest as bags and bulges due to laxity in the eyelid skin and the protrusion of fat through the weakened tissue around the eyes. These problems are not exclusive to older adults; younger individuals may also display these signs if they have inherited a tendency for early fat protrusion. As a result, many people may appear fatigued, worn out, and older than their actual age.
A thorough evaluation by Dr. Merheb will help determine the appropriate surgery required to obtain the desirable, natural result you are looking for.
Before Eyelid Surgery
During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Merheb will address your concerns and provide a custom treatment plan to achieve optimal results. We will evaluate your medical history to determine your overall health. A second appointment allows staff to provide more detailed pre-operative instructions, discuss risks and benefits of the procedure, and review post-operative care.
How is the procedure done?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure performed in our office’s outpatient surgery suite. Dr. Merheb makes hidden incisions along the natural skin lines of the eyelids, such as the creases of the upper lids and below the lashes of the lower lids. Depending on the specific issue being addressed, incisions may also be made on the inner membrane of the lower eyelid. Through these incisions, excess skin, fat, and/or muscle are removed as needed. Stitches are placed carefully to ensure that scars are imperceptible.
How will I look after surgery?
Stitches are typically removed five days after the surgery. Swelling usually subsides within 5 to 7 days. Faint bruising may persist beyond one week, but this can easily be covered with makeup or camouflaged by wearing eyeglasses. Minimal discomfort is expected following the procedure, which can be managed with medications prescribed by your surgeon.
Most patients notice a significant improvement in the appearance of their eyes, often accompanied by a feeling of lightness in the eyelids. Bags and pouches are greatly reduced, if not entirely eliminated. While crow’s feet may be diminished by the surgery, they are not completely eliminated. Patients seeking further improvement for these lines may consider adjunctive treatments such as laser resurfacing or Botox.
Eyelid surgery – patients of Dr. Nizar Merheb
