Procedure
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Your eyes are often the first feature of your appearance to make an impression on others. Unfortunately, eyelids are especially vulnerable to the signs of aging. Drooping, puffiness and a sleepy appearance can impact the look of the eyes and have a dramatic effect on your overall impression. With blepharoplasty (eyelid lift), you can turn back the clock and refresh your youthfulness. Dr. Kimberly Short treats symptoms of age on the eyelids by rejuvenating your contours. The blepharoplasty procedure is a safe, surgical option that gives you long-term results for an alert appeal. To learn how an eyelid lift can benefit your facial expressions, contact The Gillian Institute. With two convenient locations in Northside and Downtown Indianapolis, The Gillian Institute can preserve the glimmer in your eye and frame it with precision and artistry. We also offer virtual consultations for those who cannot visit us in person. No matter where you log on, Dr. Short wants to connect with you!
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is the art and science of contouring eyelids to their ideal shape and feel. By removing excess skin and unsightly fat deposits, the surgeon can tighten the look of the eyelids without compromising the patient’s structural essence.[1]
The key to a successful blepharoplasty procedure is choosing the right doctor and communicating your goals to her. Indianapolis residents and visitors are fortunate to have a foremost expert in the field of eyelid surgery working right next door to them.
Dr. Kimberly Short – Oculoplastic Surgery
Dr. Kimberly Short, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs facial rejuvenation procedures with a goal to shape and contour the facial area by providing a refreshed facial appearance, not an unnatural appearance. Dr. Kimberly Short is experienced with many cosmetic surgical techniques on the cutting edge of technology, including special training in the field of oculoplastic surgery (surgical treatments pertaining to the eyelid, tear ducts and face). Dr. Short completed a six-month fellowship in Oculoplastic Surgery and Aesthetic Facial Surgery with internationally-renowned eyelid specialist, Dr. James Carraway. Dr. Kimberly Short also completed a three-month fellowship in Facial Rejuvenation in Miami, Florida. In addition to her fellowships, Dr. Short was given the opportunity to train with Dr. Ramirez, who pioneered endoscopic plastic surgery and designed many of the specialized instruments widely used today. Dr. Short performed endoscopic facial surgery in France as well as Great Britain at the Moorfields Eye Hospital for concentrated experience in aesthetic and reconstructive eyelid surgery. Dr. Kimberly Short’s training is world-class. Her practice, philosophy, and gentle approach allow each patient to feel comfortable and confident throughout their experience. To book a consultation with the esteemed Dr. Kimberly Short, please contact The Gillian Institute.
Benefits of Eye Surgery
Thin skin leaves the eyelids especially vulnerable to the effects of time. Skin laxity, or loose skin, develops over time naturally, but may also develop more quickly due to stress, smoking, and overexposure to the sun. Unfortunately, there is very little that an individual can do on their own to solve the issues of skin laxity or thin skin. Eyelid surgery addresses aging symptoms such as skin laxity, under-eye bags, and puffiness by removing excess skin and fat deposits.
After excess tissue is removed, the remaining skin is sutured in a lifted, youthful position. In addition to the physical benefits of blepharoplasty, there are many psychological rewards, as well. You can make eye contact with confidence, knowing that your contours reflect your youthful vigor. Please call (317) 913-3260 in Northside Indianapolis or (317) 787-3260 in Downtown Indianapolis to begin your journey towards a more shapely, alert you!
Ideal Candidates
If you are a healthy individual who wishes to bring drama and/or dimension to your eyelids, then blepharoplasty may be the perfect solution for you. If you struggle with any of the following symptoms, then you should consider a consultation with Dr. Short.
- Overhanging skin in the upper eyelids or lower eyelids
- Excess upper lid or lower lid skin and/or excess fat
- “Droopy” eyelids
- Puffiness on the eyelids and “bags” under the lower lids
- Entropion, where the lower eyelids weaken and flip inward, causing irritation and sensitivity in the eyes
- Ectropion, where the lower eyelids flip outward, leaving the eyes exposed and vulnerable to the elements
Private Consultation in Indianapolis
Communication is the cornerstone of any successful endeavor. We encourage you to share your medical history so we can embark on a brighter future together. In the spirit of great communication, we regularly update our blog. Feel free to read through our posts and bring any insights or questions to Dr. Short for your visit.
During a consultation, each patient receives a customized surgical plan that may or may not involve the following techniques:
- Upper Blepharoplasty
- Lower Blepharoplasty
- Transconjunctival Lower Eyelid Surgery
- Brow Lift or browpexy
It is important to address any concerns with The Gillian Institute at the time of your consultation. There is some risk, as with any surgical procedure. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual. Our doctors can explain the procedure and potential complications to you in detail, and Dr. Short can help you determine if blepharoplasty is right for you.
To reduce surgical risk, you will be required to quit smoking at least three weeks before the surgery date. Any anti-inflammatory medications or history of medication must be discussed during your consultation to determine the best course of action for treatment.
Preparation
Blepharoplasty, though relatively straightforward, is still a surgical procedure that requires preparation. In the weeks leading up to treatment, we recommend patients take the following steps to ensure they have the best, safest experience possible:
- Arrange transportation to and from the treatment center as you will be unable to drive due to the effects of anesthesia and blurred vision.
- Arrange for assistance in the first 48 hours around the house, and place essential items within your reach.
- We recommend wearing button-down clothing for the day of your treatment to avoid the risk of damaging the treatment area when pulling clothing over your head.
Procedure
The blepharoplasty (or eyelid lift) procedure removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery will give you a more rested, alert, youthful appearance. The eyelids will be more refreshed, with a younger, firmer eye area. The blepharoplasty procedure will help define the eyelid crease but it will not remove lines and wrinkles around the eyes, nor can it change the position of the brows. Dr. Kimberly Short performs each eyelid surgery to achieve the patient’s goals, but also to create the best result that is natural and appropriate to their body. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The procedure takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for an upper or lower blepharoplasty and 3 to 4.5 hours for eyelid surgery with a brow lift, depending on the incision placement.
During the preoperative markings, we will use an outline to mark the upper lid crease to keep the scars as invisible as possible along your natural folds. The incision is made, excess fat and muscle are removed along with the loose skin. Very small, fine sutures are used to close the incisions and are removed within 3 days after surgery to minimize the appearance of the scar.
In upper eyelid surgery, the incision is well-concealed in the upper eyelid crease. In lower eyelid surgery, the incision is made along the lash line. This incision allows our surgeons to remove excess fat and tighten the muscle. The excess skin is then excised before closing the incision with very small, fine sutures. Lower eyelid puffiness is caused primarily by excess fat and may be corrected by a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. The incision for a transconjunctival lower eyelid surgery is made inside the lower eyelid. This approach does not require any sutures for closure. Therefore, no visible scar is seen. In many patients older than 40 years of age, a transconjunctival approach may be recommended, depending on their lower eyelid muscle laxity. This approach prevents a complication called ectropion, where the lower eyelid may turn outward after surgery.
EYELID SURGERY AT A GLANCE:
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 Hours or 3 – 4.5 Hours for Eyelid and Brow Lift Combo
- Outpatient: Patients can go home the day of their treatment
- General Anesthesia: Medication that ensures the patient is comfortable during the entire treatment.
- Recovery Time: A week to 10 days off work, returning to light, normal activity after ten days or more.
Healthy Recovery
You will need to take 7 to 10 days off from work after an eyelid surgery. Swelling and bruising should subside within the first 1 to 2 weeks. Depending on the incision that was used, the sutures will be removed within 2 to 4 days from the eyelid crease. Typically, steri-strips, small surgical tapes, are used to maintain suture placement for sutures located at the ends of the eyelid crease.
An ointment (Puralube or Lacri-Lube) will be prescribed to prevent dryness to the eyes and is to be used primarily at night. Blurred vision may be present for the first week until the swelling resolves. You will require a driver for the first 7 days postoperative.
Lower eyelid massage following surgery is recommended for the first few weeks to allow the lower eyelids to heal properly by keeping the underlying connective tissue soft and supple to prevent scar tissue.
Amazing Results
Your eyes are unique to your face, your style, and your soul. Results will be contoured to your desired outcome, but here are some of the anticipated benefits you can expect.
- A more refreshed, youthful appearance to the upper portion of the face.
- A more rested appearance to the eyelids.
- Remove excess skin, puffiness, and bags under the eyelids.
- Enhances ability to see in the peripheral field.
- Ability to apply eyeshadow and eyeliner without difficulty.
To get a glimpse of your brilliant future, take a look at some of our past patients’ glowing reviews. We are humbled by their kind words, and we are eager to continue providing 5-star service to the Indianapolis community.
References
- Rohrich, R. J., Coberly, D. M., Fagien, S., Stuzin, J. M. (2004). Current Concepts in Aesthetic Upper Blepharoplasty. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 113(3)32e-42e. DOI: 10.1097/01.PRS.0000105684.06281.32
- Scoppettuolo, E., Chadha, V., Bunce, C., et al. (2008). British Oculoplastic Surgery Society (BOPSS) National Ptosis Survey. British Journal of Ophthalmology 92:1134-1138. Retrieved from: https://bjo.bmj.com/content/92/8/1134