Lower Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Questions and Answers

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Question:

I have wrinkles and bags below my eyes beyond my years. I had corneal ulcers and dry eye syndrom which caused me to constantly tug at my eyes. The skin under my eyes and eyelids is very loose. I would like to correct the situation. I am willing to undergo surgery or other treatment. could you please advise what is safe and effective and what kind of results I can expect. Thank you.

Answer:

Carol, You are a candidate for lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). It is very important that it be done in such a way that lids are supported upward in anyone that has a tendency to dry eye syndrome. I suggest you see a board certified plastic surgeon in order to determine your individual needs. David M. Metzner, MD

Question:

I have some questions that I would really appreciate a response to. First, I had breast implants done approximately 16 years ago (silicon) I was 25 years old at the time. I now am faced with "capsular contraction" (I believe that is what it is called, hardening and discomfort of the breasts). I would like to know what the success rate is for successfully replacing the implants and not having the problem reoccur. Is it possible to have the upper and lower eye lids lifted at the same time as this replacement surgery? Also, one question that I am very embarrassed about since I have never heard of this problem before, is there any surgery that would alter the appearance of "extremely" long vaginal lips, I take the word "extremely" from an obstetrition who must have felt that since I was in labor that I would not be sensitive to his remark "she has extremely large vaginal lips". Please answer this question, it has made me very self concious even though my husband says its great!

Answer:

Dear Donna, The capsular contracture is a difficult problem and recurrence is common (at least 50% from published studies. It is reduced by the use of textured implants and also by placing the implants under the muscle (a less natural position but one which better "hides" the implant. Eyelid surgery can very safely be performed at the time of explantation, removal of the capsules and replacement surgery. The vaginal lips question is very common. Often women are uneven on the two sides and require evening of the lips. The labia minora (proper term) reduction is commonly performed in my practice (about once or twice per month) with excellent results. Make certain that they are not over reduced, your husband won't appreciate it.

Gregory Caputy, MD, Chief Surgeon
Honolulu, HI

Question:

how do you remove bags beneath the eyes

Answer:

Dear Paul, The bags are removed through a procedure called lower eyelid blepharoplasty where the fat that is spilling over the rim of the orbit (where your eye sits) is removed, the ligaments holding the lower eyelid in place are tightened and the excess skin is removed either directly or tightened with laser resurfacing.

Gregory Caputy, MD, Chief Surgeon
Honolulu, HI

Question:

I have had eyelid surgery on the lower lids twice, I am not happy with the way they look, can they be done again?

Answer:

Yes, but it can become more risky with each additional operation. Call 1-800-635-0635 for a qualified surgeon in your area.

Question:

Hi, I am 40 years old and have hereditory 'puffy' eyebags which are not always evident. If I do decide to have a blepharoplasty (assuming I have to be 'cut' from the outside - where would the incisions be placed and how 'large' would these have to be....by that I mean, how far from the outer edge of my eyes would they extend?

Answer:

If the only problem is related to excessive fat, then the incisions can be placed on the inside of your lower eyelid and there will be no visible scarring. Whether you are a candidate for this procedure or not can be determined only by having a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Dennis P. Thompson, M.D.

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