Blepharoplasty: The Seven Things You Should Know Prior To Undergoing Surgery

Dr. Jhonny Salomon graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Medical Science, along with a Doctorate from the School of Medicine from Boston University. He is the author of numerous articles in prestigious Scientific Journals and has presented his research in many Plastic Surgery Forums. Dr. Salomon provides an excellent spectrum of services that begin with a highly experienced, detail-oriented staff specializing in serving patients from South Florida, New York, and abroad for over a decade. As an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Salomon has implemented certain processes to minimize patients' risks and recoveries while offering the best possible care. Dr. Salomon is the author of many articles in prestigious Scientific Journals and has presented his research in many Plastic Surgery Forums.

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Blepharoplasty removes excesses of skin and fat on the upper and lower eyelids. The manipulation of fat and muscle, or even removing the extra skin, can successfully correct under-eye bags, darkened skin, puffiness, lines and wrinkles and hooded eyelids. When patients are interested in this surgery, they must consult someone very experienced in performing this procedure. Eyelid surgery is one of the most detailed surgeries and one of the most complex anatomies of the face.

To understand all things blepharoplasty, Haute Beauty expert Dr. Jhonny Salomon answers the questions you should know before committing to the procedure. Here's what he had to say:

What's a good age for blepharoplasty?

There is no minimum age for blepharoplasty. Some people have excess fat in the lower lid very early in life – as early as people in their 20s. Usually, this procedure starts becoming prominent in the 40s to 50s.

Let's break down the main misconceptions here.

One of the misconceptions about the process goes back to the previous question, age. Most people think you need to be much older to receive the procedure, but that is not the case. In some cases, Dr. Salomon will only need to address cosmetic or functional concerns on one or the other (upper or lower eyelids), which often occurs in younger patients looking to fix their drooping or tired eyes.

Another misconception of blepharoplasty is that it can correct the crow's feet. It cannot. It can only improve the upper and lower eyelid complexities.

What is the most popular procedure to combine it with?

As far as the upper lid is concerned, many patients with excess skin and fat on the upper lid also have some form of drooping on the eyebrow. Therefore, a large percentage of patients combine a blepharoplasty of the upper eyelid and a brow lift. In addition, some people have ptosis of one of the lids, which is when the muscle opens up and the upper lids become weak. If this is the case, a blepharoplasty and ptosis surgery can be performed simultaneously. Frequently, upper and lower eyelid surgery is done at the same time as a facial rejuvenation procedure, with a face and neck life or any one of the facial procedures, as seen in before and after photos. 

 

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Are you awake during blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty performed by Dr. Salomon is usually performed under anesthetic, which eliminates the pain during surgery. However, there are times when a patient is not healthy enough to go under anesthetic resulting in the second option: sedation.

From a surgeon's perspective, it is easier for a patient to be completely paralyzed when the surgery is performed. It also creates a very peaceful environment in the operation room. When sedation is used, there are extra things to think about, in terms of oxygen levels, etc.

When can you wear contacts again?

If you wear contacts, wait a full week to wear them. You can wear glasses right away.

Note: if you have had any previous eyelid surgeries - cataract or LASIK - you must wait six months before receiving blepharoplasty.

How long can you not shower your face after surgery?

It is suggested to wait two to three days to shower.

Do you need to stop smoking?

It is best to stop smoking before any procedure. The reason for this is a direct correlation with coughing. When you cough, it increases your chance of bleeding. Try to stop two weeks before and after the eyelid surgery. The most necessary surgery for not smoking before are facelifts and tummy tucks.

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