Laser eyelid surgery, also known as
blepharoplasty, is a variation of conventional eyelid surgery. It’s designed to eliminate the sagging and puffy skin around the eyes, and can be performed very quickly and efficiently. This procedure is typically performed using only local anesthesia and a sedative. If you’re trying to counteract the signs of aging and want to improve your appearance, you could be a good candidate for this innovative procedure. Here’s a close look at how laser eyelid surgery works, and what its top benefits are:
How Laser Eyelid Surgery is Performed
Laser eyelid surgery is performed by administering a precise laser beam directly under the eyelid to create an incision. Unlike traditional eyelid surgery where the surgeon must use a scalpel to create a small incision under the eyes and extract the fat, laser eyelid surgery simply involves applying the laser beam and gently removing the skin and tissue inside. This quick and simple procedure can be performed in one to three hours depending on how much fat needs to be removed, and the healing process is very quick because the skin binds together naturally when the bandages are applied to the incision. Laser eyelid surgery typically takes just one procedure, and presents fewer risks than other eyelid and facelift surgery procedures.
Key Benefits of Laser Eyelid Surgery
Some of the key benefits of laser eyelid surgery include:
- Little to no downtime – healing begins as soon as the bandages are applied to the incision
- Can completely remove pseudo-herniation fat pads (also known as eye bags)
- Tightens up crow’s feet
- Promotes the natural skin tightening process
- No need for anesthesia
- No cutting of the tissue involved
- Can remove folds that droop above the eyes
- Can reduce puffiness in the upper eyelids
Many patients that undergo this type of procedure report that they have increased self-confidence and enjoy higher rates of self-esteem. In some cases, the tighter eyelids can make them appear more alert, focused and even happier.
Other Information About Laser Eyelid Surgery
Laser eyelid surgery can only be performed on people who are physically and mentally healthy, and on those who do not have medical or eye conditions that could interfere with the natural healing process. A series of blood tests must be performed between one to two weeks prior to surgery, and patients are advised to stop taking antibiotics and blood thinners for at least 10 days prior to surgery, as these could interfere with the healing process.
Since there is no cutting of the tissue involved, laser eyelid surgery involves minimal bleeding and little to no risk of infection. However, some of the potential side effects still include damage to vision, lower lid laxity and burning of the skin on the lower lid. A plastic surgeon can go over all of the benefits and risks involved with this procedure during your consultation.
Learn more about eyelid surgery (
blepharoplasty) in our information guide, or consult with a
cosmetic surgeon in your area to find out if you may be a good candidate for this popular wrinkle removal procedure.
Published: 11/13/2009, Last Updated: 11/13/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.