General Information

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is designed to improve the appearance of the individual by removing the excess fat, and wrinkled, droopy skin of the upper eyelids that can make you look tired and sad and eliminating the "bags" under the eyes. The patient must be thoroughly aware that each and every wrinkle and fold of the skin around the eyes cannot be removed.

The patient frequently asks HOW LONG THE EFFECTS OF THE OPERATION WILL LAST. It is impossible to estimate or guarantee any definite time, due to variation of skin type, wrinkles, age and the healing ability of the individual. The results of aesthetic eyelid surgery are long-lasting. Removal of fat is permanent and generally will not recur, except rare occasions.

One must accept the judgment of your plastic surgeon and realize that he will remove all the skin that can safely be removed to effect the most suitable result for your particular problem. It will be necessary for Dr. Sevinor to know if you were ever told by an Ophthalmologist that you have a condition called "dry eye" or if you ever have any other eye problems.

Surgery

Surgery is performed as a hospital or clinic procedure. DO NOT WEAR ANY MAKE -UP, FINGERNAIL POLISH OR FALSE EYELASHES ON THE DAY OF THE SURGERY.

Surgical Time

Variable; approximately thirty minutes for each eyelid.

Anesthesia

Usually done under local anesthesia, with additional sedation to relax the patient. Medication is given just prior to the operation by vein, to help produce amnesia while the surgery is being performed.

Surgical Procedure

The incision for reducing the wrinkles and excess skin of the upperlids is made horizontally within the natural fold of the upper eyelids and extends slightly beyond the outside corner into the existing creases. A segment of skin is removed and sometimes portions of fat underneath the lids are removed. The incisions for the lower lids are made of approximately 1/16th of an inch below the rim of the lower eyelid and extends beyond the edge of the eye. A segment of skin and underlying fat are removed. These incisions are well camouflaged by a natural crease. In some cases and incision is made inside the lower eyelid to remove only excess fat.

Scars

The scars are permanent. However, they are placed in such a position that they are barely discernible after a reasonable period of time.

Discoloration

The eyelids may be discolored and swollen for a period of time following the surgery, depending upon the type of skin and healing ability. Occasionally the white portion of the eye may be "bloodshot". This is a temporary condition.

Postoperative Care

4 x 4 gauze sponges moistened in a basin of ice water may be applied intermittently over the lids for several days. This helps alleviate swelling and usually gives soothing affect to the operative sites.

Dark glasses are suggested for a period of one week, to prevent irritation from sun and wind and rest the eyes, even when indoors. The patient should remain within reasonable traveling distance of the doctor's office for approximately one week. Sutures are usually removed during the first week.

Make-Up

Usual eyelid make-up can be applied approximately 10 days following surgery.

Shampoo and Hair Coloring

All coiffure procedures can be carried out approximately ten days after surgery.

Showers and Baths

No restrictions. Keep dressings, if any, dry.

Social Activity

Social activity should be limited for approximately two weeks.

In the event of any minor complications or questions, the doctor should be contacted and the patient should not accept any advice from those who are not directly concerned with the operation. CALL YOUR SURGEON IF ANY MEDICAL PROBLEMS ARISE.

Medications

Take all medications EXACTLY as ordered. You my be requested to take some medicines before your surgery. DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN OR ANY ASPIRIN-CONTAINING COMPOUNDS FOR TWO WEEKS BEFORE OR TWO WEEKS AFTER YOUR SURGERY. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Valadol, Tempra) may be used in place of aspirin. AT THE FIRST SIGN OF HIVES OR A RASH, DISCONTINUE ALL MEDICATION AND CALL IMMEDIATELY.