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EYELIDS
Eyes are one of the first features that people notice about you. Unfortunately, they're also one of the first to show signs of aging. Over time, your eyelids may thin and lose elasticity, causing them to sag. Or fat around your eye sockets may cause bags under your eyes. These changes can make you look tired or sad, when you don't feel that way.
Cosmetic surgery consists of removal of excess skin, muscle and fat from around the upper or lower eyelid. This is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic facial procedures and one of the most satisfying. This operation is frequently performed in conjunction with a facelift, but it is often performed alone. Eyelid sagging generally occurs five to ten years before any other wrinkling of the facial skin. Eye surgery also eliminates bags under the eyes and tightens the lower eyelid skin. The result is a brighter, more alert and rested appearance.
Immediately after the procedure is completed, light dressings are placed over the eyes, care being taken to avoid pressure. Iced compresses are then placed over the dressing to minimize swelling and discoloration. These iced compresses are continued for one to three days. The first day, the patient is placed on bed rest, with the head elevated to further minimize swelling of the eyelids. Ointment is placed over the incision lines to protect the eye and minimize crusting of the suture line. There is usually little pain or discomfort after this surgery.
The sutures are removed on the fourth or fifth post-operative day. Frequently, several stitches at the outer aspect of the lids are left in place until the fifth day.
Most eyelid swelling is resolved in two weeks or less. Most patients return to work within seven to ten days or sooner with makeup. Your doctor will advise you about returning to work and other activities. Avoid contact sports for two weeks and activities that can increase your pulse or blood pressure for a few days. This will decrease your risk of bleeding and swelling.
Eyelid surgery can help to restore the shape of your eyes to 10 or 20 years prior. It can also reshape the eyes, decrease lower lid puffiness - even create a crease in the upper lid. Eyelid surgery has improved greatly in the last decade. It's no longer just about removing skin and fat, which can result in a hollow, pulled, or "surprised" look. Today we strive to preserve the character of the eyes while restoring their youth. This results in patients looking "younger" and rested, not different. Patients emerge with three things: smoother upper lids, which reduces the sagging, tired look; contoured lower lids, which takes away the drooping look; and, lastly, a restored eye shape. This relatively simple procedure provides a great deal of satisfaction for those who have it done. For women, eye shadow can be used more effectively to enhance one's appearance.
"You did great work and I want to thank you."
C.H. - Eden Prairie
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