Eyelid Surgery in Farmington Hills

What eyelid surgery addresses

Blepharoplasty addresses aging changes in the upper and lower eyelids. It can remove excess skin, reduce fatty deposits and tighten the eyelid muscles for a more alert appearance. Concerns it treats include eyelid ptosis, asymmetry and excess skin.

Upper eyelid surgery

Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat from the upper lids. It can help patients with eyelid ptosis, where the upper lid droops over the eye and sometimes impairs vision, and it can improve balance between the eyes. Incisions are placed within the natural crease of the eyelid.

When needed, a procedure called a ptosis repair can strengthen the upper eyelid muscle. It is not a standard part of blepharoplasty.

Lower eyelid surgery

Lower blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags, persistent puffiness, excess skin and asymmetry. Incisions are made just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid (the transconjunctival approach). Through them, Dr. Hardaway can remove or reposition fat, tighten muscles and remove excess skin.

How the procedure is performed

The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on whether you are having upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery or both. It is outpatient surgery, usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia, and the eyelids are numbed as well. When both lids are treated, the upper eyelids are usually done first. Excess skin and fat are removed or redistributed, and the incisions are closed with small stitches.

Recovery

You are monitored after surgery and go home the same day. Mild to moderate discomfort, often felt as tightness or soreness, is managed with prescribed medication at first, and most patients find over-the-counter pain relievers enough after the first couple of days. Temporary dry eyes can also occur.

In the days and weeks after surgery you should:

• apply cold packs for 10 to 15 minutes at a time immediately after surgery
• avoid heavy activity for several days
• avoid wearing makeup and contact lenses for at least two weeks

Stitches are usually removed within a week. Swelling and bruising subside significantly within the first two weeks, and most patients return to normal activities within 7 to 14 days.

Choosing a surgeon

Dr. Michelle Hardaway is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial procedures. Surgery takes place in her accredited surgical suite in Farmington Hills, with care from an all-women team.