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f
eyes are the windows to the soul, then there's something
tobe
said for wanting them to appear alert, cheerful and unobstructed. |
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Unfortunately, they are probably the first facial feature
to reflect the `ravages of time'. The tissue on the
upper lid looses its elasticity and eventually begins
to droop, sometimes over the eye itself, obstructing
vision. The delicate tissue under the eyes begins to
protrude giving those unattractive `bags under the eyes'.
The total effect is a tired, `sad sack' appearance
which may begin to show itself in the early middle
years or even earlier.
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To correct
the problem, excess skin from the upper lid and fatty deposits
from the lower lid are removed, usually in the same procedure.
This procedure is called blepharoplasty and is often
done in conjunction with rhytidectomy (facelift) and/or browlift.
Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty
are healthy individuals who, again, have realistic expectations.
Usually people in their late thirties or early forties are
the youngest patients in this practice. Sometimes, however,
drooping and baggy lids are family characteristics and much
younger members may seek eyelid surgery as well. It is important
that older patients know that the smile wrinkles around the
eyes are not totally removed by blepharoplasty.
As in all surgery, a medical history
and physical exam are done. Some medical conditions increase
the risk of blepharoplasty and the surgeon should be aware
of these before proceeding further. Also any medications,
including vitamins, should be noted as well as if the patient
smokes. Patients are given instructions how to prepare for
surgery and, as in all surgery, carefully following preoperative
instructions will reduce risk and improve healing time. The
procedure is normally performed on an outpatient basis and
under local anesthesia and light intravenous sedation. (General
anesthesia may be administered if blepharoplasty is performed
in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, such as facelift.)
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