Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Dalton & Chattanooga
Also serving Calhoun & Cartersville in North Georgia
Interested in getting eyelid surgery near Chattanooga? Eyelid surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery that can be performed for either aesthetic or functional reasons. Eyelids that have a lot of redundant skin can make a person look very tired or even angry. Also, too much skin can cause the upper lids to become so heavy that they droop and cover the eyelashes, thereby affecting vision. Surgical excision of excess tissue and skin is something of an art form; the surgeon must remove just enough to effectively treat the problem, but not too much to make the patient's eyes look skeletal or sunken in. Dr. Joel Williams has many years of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon performing eyelid surgery and delivering natural-looking results that patients love.
Learn more about upper and lower eyelid surgery and contact Williams Plastic Surgery today to schedule a surgical consultation.
Candidates for Eyelid Surgery
Candidates for upper eyelid surgery near Chattanooga typically have saggy skin that hangs; sometimes it even impedes the line of sight. Younger patients may just notice a small amount of excess skin that can collect mascara. Lower eyelid surgery candidates have puffy or droopy lower lids, skin that resembles crepe paper around the lower lids, bags or dark circles underneath the eyes.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is offered at Dr. Williams' accredited Dalton plastic surgery center, located near Chattanooga. To begin, Dr. Williams makes an incision hidden in the natural fold of the upper eyelid and removes excess skin and occasionally fatty tissue. The remaining skin is tightened and sutured together. Any scars are hidden within the natural contour of the eye, so they are very unnoticeable.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Dr. Williams makes an incision below the lower lash line. He removes redundant skin and fatty tissue that is accumulating into puffy bags. He may also tighten the muscles if they have become lax. Then, he tightens the remaining skin and sutures it into place. Any scars are hidden inconspicuously within the natural crease of the lid.
Patients who desire a more complete facial transformation may explore the option of combining procedures. For example, eyelid surgery can be coupled with dermal filler treatment to fill in deep creases around the nose or mouth. Eyelid surgery may also be combined with rhinoplasty surgery in Dalton, GA or ear surgery.
Recovering from Eyelid Surgery
The eyes will look swollen and bruised after surgery, but often less than expected. Vision may be slightly blurred and it's best to wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from the elements. Any discomfort can be alleviated with prescription pain medications or Tylenol. While recovering at home, it's important that patients keep their heads elevated and not bend over or engage in any strenuous activities. Dr. Williams will check progress during follow-up appointments and advise when it is safe to return to normal activities. This typically takes three to five days or less to return to desk work.
Risks and Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
Once excess tissue and skin has been removed and the muscles tightened, the eyes will look more awake and rested. This can have a rejuvenating effect on the entire face. Also, excising droopy skin from the upper lids can improve impaired vision.
There are several potential complications of eyelid surgery, including hematoma, blood clots, infection, unfavorable scarring, reactions to the anesthesia, injury to the surrounding structures and the need for revision. Few patients experience dry eye or irritation that necessitates medical treatment, though this is a rare complication. Patients with a history of dry eyes can experience a worsening of symptoms after eyelid surgery.
In any case, it is imperative to follow all of Dr. Williams' instructions for preoperative preparation and postoperative recovery for optimal outcome and avoidance of any complications.
For more information about upper or lower eyelid surgery, please contact Dr. Joel Williams' plastic surgery practice today.