Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty in Houston offers numerous patient benefits that enhance appearance and functionality. It can rejuvenate the eye area with perks such as: 

• Reduces puffiness and bags under the eyes
• Eliminates excess skin that can obstruct vision
• Tightens and smooths the skin around the eyes
• Diminishes fine lines and wrinkles
• Enhances the overall appearance of the eyes
• It provides a more youthful and refreshed look
• Improves self-confidence and facial aesthetics

Additional Benefits:

The malar fat pad can be accessed through a lower blepharoplasty incision. Elevation of the malar fat to correct its descent, malar (cheek) implants to augment the mid-face, or fat grafting further are surgical techniques that may be necessary to counteract the deflationary effects of generalized fat loss of the face, as noted above.

Mid-facial augmentation may also be beneficial if the mid-face is recessed behind the vector of the cornea of the eye, a so-called negative vector mid-face. A high lamellar SMAS lift can also augment the mid-face.

In younger patients with bulging lower eyelids but without excess skin, it is possible that a transconjunctival lower lid blepharoplasty may be sufficient to correct the deformity by simply removing the apparent excess fat.

In older patients, the skin of the lower eyelids usually suffers from elasticity loss from solar elastosis, requiring reconstructive surgery and lower eyelid rejuvenation. Skin resurfacing from either a chemical peel or laser treatment may correct the damage inflicted by the sun.

When there is skin laxity of the lower eyelids that can be demonstrated by a snap test or by the visibility of the sclera between the iris and the lower eyelids, the eyelid should be tightened using either a lateral canthopexy or a lateral canthoplasty.

In the surgical technique of a canthopexy, the lateral canthal ligament is tightened, whereas, in a canthoplasty, the lower division of the lateral canthal ligament is divided and reattached to the thickened periosteum of the orbital rim known as the arcus marginalis. In some cases, a small length of the lower tarsal plate is denuded of mucosa and skin and then directly attached to the orbital rim, known as a tarsal strip procedure.

In most cases of lower eyelid blepharoplasty, it is prudent to incorporate either a canthopexy or canthoplasty as a preventative measure against possible complications postoperation.

In examining the upper eyelid, it is vitally important to distinguish between excess skin of the upper eyelid or ptosis of the brow. The eyebrow sits typically at the level of the upper bony rim of the orbit, with the outer or lateral third of the brow in women projecting slightly above the rim. If this is not the case, correction of the brow via upper eyelid surgery is vital to creating the natural contours of their desired facial structure.

Many plastic surgeons do not tell the patient that the frontalis muscle, which elevates the brows, maybe spasmed in the case of brow ptosis to maintain the field of vision. When the obstructing skin is removed in an upper lid blepharoplasty, the frontalis muscle will relax, settling the brows to a lower position than was present preoperatively. To obtain the optimum result, it may be necessary to perform both a brow lift and an upper blepharoplasty.

The best candidates for eyelid surgery are individuals in Houston, Pearland, and Lake Jackson who have good overall health and realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes. Ideal candidates typically experience issues such as:

• Drooping or sagging upper eyelids
• Puffiness or bags under the eyes
• Excess skin on the upper or lower eyelids
• Impaired vision due to drooping eyelids
• Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes
• A desire for a more youthful and refreshed appearance

On the day of your eyelid surgery at Premier Plastic Surgery in Houston, you can expect a welcoming and comfortable environment. After arriving at the clinic, hang your hat and greet our friendly staff. Once settled in, you can expect a comprehensive and personalized approach to address upper and lower eyelids if needed. Here’s what you can anticipate for each:

Upper Eyelid Surgery: Depending on your preference and Dr. Hankins’ recommendation, you will be administered either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Dr. Hankins will then make discreet incisions along the natural creases of your upper eyelids to minimize visible scarring. Excess skin, muscle, and fat will be removed or repositioned for a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. Once the necessary adjustments are made, the incisions will be carefully closed with sutures or surgical adhesive. 

Lower Eyelid Surgery: Similar to upper eyelid surgery, you will receive either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Hankins may make incisions along the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid to access the underlying tissues. Excess fat may be repositioned or removed depending on your specific concerns to reduce puffiness and under-eye bags. Dr. Hankins will tighten the skin and underlying tissues to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. The incisions will be meticulously closed with sutures or surgical adhesive to promote optimal healing.

Dr. Hankins and his team will prioritize your safety, comfort, and aesthetic goals throughout upper and lower eyelid surgeries, ensuring a positive surgical experience and beautiful results.

Following eyelid surgery in Houston, patients typically experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort around the eyes. To aid in recovery, it’s essential to rest with the head elevated, apply cold compresses, and adhere to any prescribed medication or eye care regimen.

If used, sutures are usually removed within one to two weeks, and a gradual return to normal activities is encouraged. While full results may take several weeks, regular follow-up appointments with our team will help monitor progress and ensure optimal healing.