Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery • Dr. Raymond J. Haigney II • 9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 987-3132

9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 987-3132

Eyelid Surgery Scars

Upper blepharoplasty patient candidates

An upper blepharoplasty is intended for patients who have excess skin or fat in their upper eyelids. Some patients will complain about their eyelids even feeling heavy towards the end of the day. In some cases, the skin can cause a visual obstruction.

Considerations

One of the most important factors to consider when determining if blepharoplasty is a good option is in evaluating if the benefits of the procedure warrant the associated risks, expenses and recovery time.

Ideal age for upper blepharoplasty

While some patients opt to have an upper eyelift in their early thirties, the ideal age for undergoing the operation is when patients are in their forties. Another peak occurs when patients are in their fifties and sixties. This age group is when many patients complete a facelift and the upper eyelift can be completed at the same time.

Incision locations for upper blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty incisions are typically made in the crease of the upper eyelid. In some cases, they will extend slightly outside the eyelid into a crow’s feet crease.

Scarring

One risk of the surgery that plastic surgeons warn patients about is the potential for scarring. Fortunately, the eyelid heals more effectively compared to other parts of the body. Scarring appears to be associated with the thickness of the skin and the skin found on the eyelid is quite thin. This is also why scars on the back can be rather unsightly. Eyelid scars are usually only visible when your eyes are closed and if someone is specifically looking for them from a close distance.

Additional procedures

Blepharoplasty typically adds less than an hour to other procedures, which makes it relatively quick. It is often completed along with other facial surgery including a brow lift, facelift, fat injections, rhinoplasty, chin implant or neck liposuction.

Incision care

An upper blepharoplasty incision does not require special care. It can get wet immediately after surgery. It can also be gently cleaned with a soft washcloth. Once the sutures are removed, there is no need to use a special scar ointment because the eyelids heal so well.

When are the stitches removed?

The sutures are usually removed less than a week after surgery. Some surgeons will use dissolvable sutures which do not require removal.

Preventing scarring

Upper blepharoplasty scars are usually quite small and heal extremely well. The outcome of your scar is primarily determined by your genetics and by the surgery. While there is no evidence that any particular product significantly improves the outcome of the scar, most patients want to do something. Patients have shared positive feedback from the following solutions:

  1. Scar Guard: a liquid-containing steroid
  2. Vitamin E and silicone (i.e. Neosporin scar strips)
  3. Silicone ointment (i.e. Scar Fade)

Most of these products can be purchased over the counter from your local pharmacy. Patients can begin using them once the glue or the steri-strip is removed. It is important to follow the product instructions and always follow your doctor’s guidance.

More on Eyelid Surgery : What are the Risks of Eyelid Surgery?

 

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Patient Testimonial

"Words cannot express enough, how wonderful, caring and professional Dr. Haigney and his staff are! After being rushed to the Huntersville hospital with an orbital fracture, broken nose and other facial damage, Dr. Haigney rushed me into surgery (on his day off I must add) and corrected all my problems. I only wish all doctors cared as much about their patients and their recovery as Dr. Haigney and his staff did. Thank you so much for everything! Your attention and compassion has helped me make my recovery as comfortable as possible. 5 star service!"