Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Glenwood Springs, CO
Overview
Dr. Butterfield performs eyelid surgery for patients in Glenwood Springs, Aspen and surrounding areas who desire a rejuvenated facial appearance. Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid tuck, removes excess skin and tissue from the lower and upper eyelids to create soft, natural results. Patients who consider this surgery are those who have puffy eyelids, upper eyelids that droop or hang, and those who suffer from swollen bags and discoloration under the eyes. Dr. Butterfield offers various eyelid surgery techniques and will consult with each patient to discuss which surgical plan will best meet the patient’s aesthetic goals.
Surgical Technique
Upper Eyelid Surgery Details
During upper eyelid surgery, an incision is made within the natural fold of the lid and extended outward. The incision will go out as wide as possible so that additional skin folds on the outside of the upper eye can also be addressed. Once the incision is made, excess skin, tissue and, in some cases, a small portion of the orbicularis occuli muscle are removed. The incision is closed with absorbable sutures and the scar remains almost completely hidden because of where it resides in the natural crease.
Upper Eyelid Surgery Video
Lower Eyelid Surgery Details
During lower eyelid surgery, an incision is made along the bottom of the lash line. This allows the surgeon to remove excess fat and tissue. In patients who have puffy lower eyelids but good skin tone, an approach known as a transconjunctival blepharoplasty can be performed. This technique puts the incision inside the lower eyelid rather than outside. Patients who have dark circles under their eyes will sometimes have a deficiency of fat in these areas. Injectables can be used to help fill these soft-tissue deficiencies and can improve the appearance of these circles.
Lower Eyelid Surgery Video
During/After Surgery
Eyelid surgery is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility. It generally takes up to 2 hours for both the upper and lower eyelids to be addressed. Following surgery, the area around the eyes will be bruised and swollen. Patients should apply ice packs, keep their heads elevated, and apply medicated eye ointment for a few days. Patients comment on the fact that friends and family tell them they look great, but often can’t put a finger on what is different. These subtle, yet dramatic results restore a softer, more youthful appearance.
Expected Cost
The cost for eyelid surgery varies for each patient and will fluctuate depending on whether both the upper and lower eyelids were addressed. Patients who undergo a full blepharoplasty, which includes both the upper and lower eyelids, will pay on average between $3,000-$7,000. In some patients where the upper eyelid skin obstructs the view, a portion of the surgery may be covered by medical insurance.
Eyelid Surgery FAQ's
Visible Scars?
After surgery, scarring will not be visible because of where the incisions are placed. In the upper eyelid, the incision follows the natural crease of the eye. The lower eyelid incision will run just under the eyelashes or inside the eyelid. Scarring will be inconspicuous.
Crow's Feet?
Eyelid surgery will reduce puffy bags and excess skin and may help contribute to some minimization of crow’s feet. However, to truly treat crow’s feet, one will need a different approach. BOTOX® injections and procedures such as a browlift, are better options to help eliminate crow’s feet.
Irritation After Surgery?
Some patients will experience dryness and minimal irritation following surgery. If these occur, we can recommend ointments and eye drops to assist during the healing phase. Patients should protect their eyes against wind and sun irritation for the first several months by wearing dark sunglasses.
Vision Improvement?
If anything, eyelid surgery actually helps improve the vision for many patients. Not only does it restore a fresh, younger look from a cosmetic standpoint, it eliminates the excess skin that may have been impairing vision. It is important to select a skilled surgeon who has expertise with eyelid surgery. We take great care during this surgery so that the eyes themselves are left untouched and unharmed.
*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.