The term “blepharoplasty” is derived from two Greek words: “blepharo” meaning “eyelid” and “plastikos” meaning “fit for molding.” If your eyes appear tired or have bags underneath them due to aging or genetics, or if they seem puffy without any apparent reason, such as crying or lack of sleep, you may be a suitable candidate for the blepharoplasty procedure.

Other reasons

There are several other reasons to consider getting eyelid surgery. For example, removing excess fatty deposits in the upper eyelids or correcting sagging skin
that creates folds on the upper eyelid, which can sometimes impair vision or interfere with makeup application. Eyelid surgery may also be considered to treat excess skin or fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid, or to address droopy lower eyelids which expose a larger white area of the eye below the iris.

The blepharoplasty procedure can give your face a rejuvenated and more rested appearance. Your eyelid surgery can be performed in the outpatient setting of our fully accredited surgery center under either general or local anesthesia.

During upper eyelid corrections, a typical incision is made in the natural eyelid crease to remove redundant skin and, in some cases, any excess fat. Dr. Turowski will ensure your incision is hidden in the natural skin creases and is not detectable. This corrects the fullness over the eye without leaving a hollow appearance.

When working on the lower eyelid, Dr. Turowski often utilizes the special “double layer” approach. During these procedures, incisions are made in a transconjunctival or internal manner. This means that incisions are only made on the inside of the eyelid, especially for young patients with excellent skin elasticity.

For most patients, a combination approach using both internal and external incisions is the best option. This lower blepharoplasty procedure involves removing excess or
bulging fat from underneath the eye through the internal approach, which is then transferred below the orbital rim to correct the tear trough deformity. This avoids removing too much fat and prevents causing a hollow or sunken look. Finally, an external incision is made just below the lash line to remove redundant skin. Because an internal and external approach is utilized, no injury is happening to the eye “septum” and that ensures no eyelid retraction. Although this approach requires two incisions, it is
much safer to avoid serious complications of eyelid malposition.

Laser resurfacing is a nonsurgical cosmetic surgery technique used by Dr. Turowski to achieve skin tightening without skin cutting. In some cases, it may be a better option to improve the appearance of fine line wrinkles.

Recovery

Before undergoing eyelid lift surgery, it is essential to have a full understanding of the recovery process. By knowing what to do and what not to do after the procedure, you can speed up your recovery.

Below are some suggestions, but please note that our staff will provide you with personalized pre and post-operative care instructions.

During the healing process, always protect your eyes from the sun and wear dark glasses when outdoors. Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, for
the first few days after surgery. Stay hydrated, eat light foods and get plenty of rest in the days following the procedure. Avoid wearing contact lenses until your surgeon approves. For two weeks after the surgery, refrain from bending or lifting anything heavy. Only drive after your vision returns to normal, and check with your surgeon before resuming your usual exercise routine. Finally, if you have any questions regarding your recovery period, don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon or our nurses.

If you are interested in finding out whether you are a candidate for blepharoplasty, please contact us for an in person or virtual consultation. Many out of state patients start their journeys through virtual consultations and photographic evaluations by Dr. Turowski. If you are traveling from out of town, you will typically need a week to stay in the Chicago area to recover and remove stitches. We will arrange your hotel and other accommodations