WEBVTT 1 00:00:00.100 --> 00:00:02.850 Welcome to your guide to eyelid surgery. 2 00:00:02.850 --> 00:00:03.800 Take a few minutes 3 00:00:03.800 --> 00:00:06.000 to familiarize yourself with the procedure 4 00:00:06.000 --> 00:00:09.770 and what you can do to help improve your results. 5 00:00:09.770 --> 00:00:11.480 Remember, this presentation 6 00:00:11.480 --> 00:00:13.970 does not take the place of your consultation, 7 00:00:13.970 --> 00:00:16.810 and you should make sure to jot down any questions 8 00:00:16.810 --> 00:00:18.573 you may want to ask us later. 9 00:00:19.490 --> 00:00:22.830 As people age, muscles weaken, skin stretches, 10 00:00:22.830 --> 00:00:25.050 and fat accumulates around the eyes, 11 00:00:25.050 --> 00:00:28.010 which causes the appearance of fatigue and stress. 12 00:00:28.010 --> 00:00:30.150 Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, 13 00:00:30.150 --> 00:00:33.380 is one of the most popular facial cosmetic surgeries, 14 00:00:33.380 --> 00:00:36.230 helping more than 200,000 people a year 15 00:00:36.230 --> 00:00:39.340 regain a younger, firmer looking eye area. 16 00:00:39.340 --> 00:00:40.990 The procedure can be performed 17 00:00:40.990 --> 00:00:43.550 on either the lower or upper eyelids, 18 00:00:43.550 --> 00:00:46.480 but many patients prefer to have surgery on both 19 00:00:46.480 --> 00:00:48.600 for a more balanced correction. 20 00:00:48.600 --> 00:00:50.820 Eyelid surgery is frequently combined 21 00:00:50.820 --> 00:00:52.703 with other facial procedures. 22 00:00:53.580 --> 00:00:54.570 Procedure. 23 00:00:54.570 --> 00:00:57.600 How will your eyelid surgery be performed? 24 00:00:57.600 --> 00:00:59.990 Surgery typically begins with incisions 25 00:00:59.990 --> 00:01:02.490 made along the crease of the upper eyelid 26 00:01:02.490 --> 00:01:05.173 and just below the lashes of the lower eyelid. 27 00:01:06.450 --> 00:01:09.470 When necessary, muscles may be trimmed or tightened 28 00:01:09.470 --> 00:01:12.060 and secured in a more youthful position. 29 00:01:12.060 --> 00:01:15.160 The skin is repositioned, trimmed of any excess, 30 00:01:15.160 --> 00:01:17.300 and stitched closed. 31 00:01:17.300 --> 00:01:18.810 Another common technique 32 00:01:18.810 --> 00:01:21.880 used to treat pockets of fat in the lower eyelid 33 00:01:21.880 --> 00:01:25.070 is called transconjunctival blepharoplasty. 34 00:01:25.070 --> 00:01:26.410 During this technique, 35 00:01:26.410 --> 00:01:29.810 a small incision is made inside the lower eyelid 36 00:01:29.810 --> 00:01:31.500 and fat is removed. 37 00:01:31.500 --> 00:01:34.050 This technique is usually used on patients 38 00:01:34.050 --> 00:01:35.700 without excess skin, 39 00:01:35.700 --> 00:01:39.250 who only need fat removal from the lower eyelid. 40 00:01:39.250 --> 00:01:41.360 Together, we will select the technique 41 00:01:41.360 --> 00:01:43.930 that will provide the best result for you. 42 00:01:43.930 --> 00:01:45.770 When you meet with our patient coordinator, 43 00:01:45.770 --> 00:01:47.893 we will discuss fees and costs. 44 00:01:48.800 --> 00:01:49.880 Preparation. 45 00:01:49.880 --> 00:01:52.170 Every person has a unique perspective 46 00:01:52.170 --> 00:01:54.700 on what may be the best shape for their eyes, 47 00:01:54.700 --> 00:01:56.350 and your goals will affect the way 48 00:01:56.350 --> 00:01:58.303 your eyelid surgery is performed. 49 00:01:59.200 --> 00:02:01.460 It is important to discuss your desires 50 00:02:01.460 --> 00:02:04.360 and to listen closely during the consultation 51 00:02:04.360 --> 00:02:07.520 so that you can set realistic expectations. 52 00:02:07.520 --> 00:02:09.700 A great result can only be achieved 53 00:02:09.700 --> 00:02:12.620 when there is good communication between us. 54 00:02:12.620 --> 00:02:15.720 Some suggestions to help you prepare for surgery. 55 00:02:15.720 --> 00:02:17.530 Your safety matters to us. 56 00:02:17.530 --> 00:02:18.820 You should be very open: 57 00:02:18.820 --> 00:02:21.770 provide your medical history, drug allergies, 58 00:02:21.770 --> 00:02:24.500 list any previous surgeries, medications, 59 00:02:24.500 --> 00:02:27.180 diet pills, vitamins, and herbs you are taking 60 00:02:27.180 --> 00:02:29.390 even if you don't think they're important. 61 00:02:29.390 --> 00:02:31.660 Also, don't be afraid to be frank with us 62 00:02:31.660 --> 00:02:33.840 about your lifestyle, smoking, 63 00:02:33.840 --> 00:02:36.360 the strenuousness of the work you perform, 64 00:02:36.360 --> 00:02:37.760 your exercise habits, 65 00:02:37.760 --> 00:02:40.780 and the importance of getting back to work. 66 00:02:40.780 --> 00:02:43.710 Here are some tips that may help you reduce scarring, 67 00:02:43.710 --> 00:02:45.190 shorten your recovery time, 68 00:02:45.190 --> 00:02:48.270 and decrease your chances of complications: 69 00:02:48.270 --> 00:02:52.070 Discontinue using Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naprosyn, 70 00:02:52.070 --> 00:02:55.750 St. John's Wort, and Vitamin E for one week before 71 00:02:55.750 --> 00:02:58.200 and a few days after your procedure. 72 00:02:58.200 --> 00:02:59.680 These act as blood thinners. 73 00:02:59.680 --> 00:03:02.510 and could cause problems with blood clotting. 74 00:03:02.510 --> 00:03:05.640 Stop smoking and drinking alcohol in excess 75 00:03:05.640 --> 00:03:08.020 well in advance of your eyelid lift, 76 00:03:08.020 --> 00:03:10.580 and for one week after surgery. 77 00:03:10.580 --> 00:03:11.720 Drink lots of water 78 00:03:11.720 --> 00:03:14.150 in the days leading up to your eyelid lift. 79 00:03:14.150 --> 00:03:17.320 Hydration will help you recover more quickly. 80 00:03:17.320 --> 00:03:20.690 To make your recovery easier and more comfortable, 81 00:03:20.690 --> 00:03:22.170 be sure to: 82 00:03:22.170 --> 00:03:24.140 Arrange for someone to take you home 83 00:03:24.140 --> 00:03:27.243 and take care of you for at least the first 24 hours. 84 00:03:28.100 --> 00:03:30.440 Fill your prescriptions prior to surgery 85 00:03:30.440 --> 00:03:32.250 and place them within easy reach 86 00:03:32.250 --> 00:03:34.330 of where you will be resting. 87 00:03:34.330 --> 00:03:37.170 Place plenty of pillows and a bed wedge nearby 88 00:03:37.170 --> 00:03:40.981 so that you can keep your head elevated at all times. 89 00:03:40.981 --> 00:03:41.942 Rocovery. 90 00:03:41.942 --> 00:03:44.480 You should expect some bruising and swelling 91 00:03:44.480 --> 00:03:46.300 for the first week or two. 92 00:03:46.300 --> 00:03:48.830 Stitches will come out or be absorbed on their own 93 00:03:48.830 --> 00:03:50.740 between four to seven days. 94 00:03:50.740 --> 00:03:52.930 Your eyelids may feel tight or sore, 95 00:03:52.930 --> 00:03:54.800 but this is usually moderate. 96 00:03:54.800 --> 00:03:56.680 Pain medication will be prescribed 97 00:03:56.680 --> 00:03:58.390 to control any discomfort. 98 00:03:58.390 --> 00:04:01.130 However, if you begin to have severe pain, 99 00:04:01.130 --> 00:04:03.450 contact us immediately. 100 00:04:03.450 --> 00:04:06.440 The recovery process is different for everyone; 101 00:04:06.440 --> 00:04:08.670 but within a day of your eyelid surgery, 102 00:04:08.670 --> 00:04:11.260 you should be up and walking around. 103 00:04:11.260 --> 00:04:14.620 Keep your head elevated for two weeks following surgery. 104 00:04:14.620 --> 00:04:18.240 You may apply small ice packs during the first 24 hours 105 00:04:18.240 --> 00:04:20.843 to help reduce swelling and discomfort. 106 00:04:21.800 --> 00:04:24.740 For the first day or so, you may notice some tearing, 107 00:04:24.740 --> 00:04:27.140 light sensitivity and blurred vision. 108 00:04:27.140 --> 00:04:29.300 You may also need to clean your eyes carefully 109 00:04:29.300 --> 00:04:30.850 for the first two weeks 110 00:04:30.850 --> 00:04:33.520 and keep your sutures free of blood and crust. 111 00:04:33.520 --> 00:04:36.660 Eye drops may be used if your eyes feel dry. 112 00:04:36.660 --> 00:04:39.600 You should be able to perform normal visual tasks, 113 00:04:39.600 --> 00:04:42.930 like reading or watching TV, soon after surgery, 114 00:04:42.930 --> 00:04:44.900 but should avoid wearing contacts 115 00:04:44.900 --> 00:04:47.430 until you are instructed to. 116 00:04:47.430 --> 00:04:50.320 For the first week, you should plan on being out of work 117 00:04:50.320 --> 00:04:52.710 and away from your usual activities. 118 00:04:52.710 --> 00:04:54.080 Following this period, 119 00:04:54.080 --> 00:04:56.180 you may gradually return to activities, 120 00:04:56.180 --> 00:04:59.100 such as lifting, exercise, and sex. 121 00:04:59.100 --> 00:05:02.410 Avoid any high impact activities for about one month. 122 00:05:02.410 --> 00:05:04.530 Stay away from saunas for a few months 123 00:05:04.530 --> 00:05:07.180 as the steam can affect healing. 124 00:05:07.180 --> 00:05:09.950 Though the appearance of bruising will fade gradually, 125 00:05:09.950 --> 00:05:11.800 you may notice some remaining bruises 126 00:05:11.800 --> 00:05:14.050 for as long as a month after surgery. 127 00:05:14.050 --> 00:05:16.030 Therefore, you may want to consider 128 00:05:16.030 --> 00:05:19.360 using special camouflage makeup as you heal. 129 00:05:19.360 --> 00:05:22.650 These precautions will help you avoid stress to your scars 130 00:05:22.650 --> 00:05:26.810 and allow time for your facial tissues to heal and recover. 131 00:05:26.810 --> 00:05:29.740 Because the incisions used during surgery are small 132 00:05:29.740 --> 00:05:32.230 and hidden within the creases of your eyelids, 133 00:05:32.230 --> 00:05:35.610 any scarring is usually minimal or unnoticeable. 134 00:05:35.610 --> 00:05:38.090 The appearance of your eye area should improve 135 00:05:38.090 --> 00:05:40.940 over a period of several months. 136 00:05:40.940 --> 00:05:43.200 What are the risks of eyelid surgery? 137 00:05:43.200 --> 00:05:46.210 This information is not intended to frighten you, 138 00:05:46.210 --> 00:05:48.750 but to help you make an informed decision. 139 00:05:48.750 --> 00:05:52.320 No question or concern is silly or insignificant. 140 00:05:52.320 --> 00:05:54.620 We will be happy to discuss the full range 141 00:05:54.620 --> 00:05:57.840 of potential complications, and answer any questions 142 00:05:57.840 --> 00:06:00.720 you might have regarding this procedure. 143 00:06:00.720 --> 00:06:01.890 Though blepharoplasty 144 00:06:01.890 --> 00:06:04.330 is a well-established surgical procedure, 145 00:06:04.330 --> 00:06:06.790 there are risks of complications. 146 00:06:06.790 --> 00:06:08.710 Just as in any operation, 147 00:06:08.710 --> 00:06:12.070 bleeding, infection, and scar formation can occur. 148 00:06:12.070 --> 00:06:15.510 Serious complications can include: eyelid disorders, 149 00:06:15.510 --> 00:06:19.570 abnormal positioning, looseness or laxness of the eyelid, 150 00:06:19.570 --> 00:06:21.560 rolling of the eyelid outward, 151 00:06:21.560 --> 00:06:25.160 lid lag, and temporary vision problems. 152 00:06:25.160 --> 00:06:27.020 As with all medical procedures, 153 00:06:27.020 --> 00:06:29.440 be sure to choose your surgeon wisely. 154 00:06:29.440 --> 00:06:30.430 It is important 155 00:06:30.430 --> 00:06:33.530 to choose an experienced surgeon you can trust 156 00:06:33.530 --> 00:06:35.430 and develop a good rapport with, 157 00:06:35.430 --> 00:06:39.270 so you can openly discuss your concerns and particular needs 158 00:06:39.270 --> 00:06:42.350 throughout the process of consultation, surgery, 159 00:06:42.350 --> 00:06:44.160 and aftercare. 160 00:06:44.160 --> 00:06:47.300 Should you decide to move forward with your eyelid lift, 161 00:06:47.300 --> 00:06:49.380 a surgery date will be scheduled. 162 00:06:49.380 --> 00:06:52.730 Prior to surgery, you will be given complete preparation 163 00:06:52.730 --> 00:06:54.500 and recovery instructions. 164 00:06:54.500 --> 00:06:57.680 Remember to keep your follow-up visits, as we are here 165 00:06:57.680 --> 00:07:00.980 to help make this a wonderful experience for you. 166 00:07:00.980 --> 00:07:04.540 Feel free to review any part of this presentation you like, 167 00:07:04.540 --> 00:07:07.350 and be sure to take a look at our before-and-after gallery 168 00:07:07.350 --> 00:07:10.593 to get a better idea of the results you may achieve. 169 00:07:11.685 --> 00:07:14.102 (soft music)