When it comes to rejuvenating the face, eyelid surgery — also called blepharoplasty — stands out as a transformative option. This plastic surgery procedure eliminates sagging skin, corrects displaced fat and smooths out wrinkles around the eyelids. If you’re curious about the technical details of this intriguing cosmetic procedure, look no further.
Let’s dig deep into what happens during a blepharoplasty so you can understand what all it entails.
The Role of Anesthesia in Your Comfort
The first step in blepharoplasty is administering anesthesia for your comfort. While most people opt for local anesthesia with sedation, some choose general anesthesia. These options differ significantly in terms of the level of consciousness and recovery time.
Local Anesthesia With Sedation
This approach uses a local anesthetic to numb the eyelids, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Sedation is then given to help you relax, which can range from mild to moderate, depending on your needs and Dr. Ridenour’s recommendation. With this type of anesthesia, you remain awake but are generally drowsy and may have limited memory of the procedure.
The benefits of local anesthesia include a quicker recovery period and less post-operative nausea compared to general anesthesia.
General Anesthesia
Choosing general anesthesia means you’ll be completely unconscious during the surgery. This is usually administered intravenously and through inhaled gases (anesthetics). While you won’t feel or remember anything, general anesthesia requires more preparation and monitoring. Your vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels, are continuously checked by an anesthesiologist.
The recovery time after general anesthesia tends to be longer than local anesthesia, and you may experience post-operative effects like grogginess and nausea.
Choosing the Anesthesia Type That’s Right for You
Deciding between these anesthesia options is something you’ll want to discuss thoroughly during your consultation at Ridenour Plastic Surgery in St. Louis. Dr. Ridenour will guide you through the available options, taking into account your personal preferences and the specifics of your procedure. This tailored approach promotes your comfort and safety during the surgery.
Cutting With Precision: Incisions in Eyelid Surgery
The incisions for upper and lower eyelid surgery are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. So, what exactly is involved with making these incisions?
Scalpel Selection and Sterilization
Before the surgery begins, the appropriate type of surgical scalpel is selected. The fine blade of the scalpel allows for meticulous and highly precise incisions, critical for the delicate area around the eyes.
The scalpel is thoroughly sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. This is usually done using a machine that utilizes high-pressure steam to kill any harmful microbes (bacteria, viruses, etc.).
Once you’re comfortably sedated through your chosen anesthesia option, the surgical area is cleaned and disinfected.
Upper Eyelid Incisions: The Hidden Crease
In the case of upper eyelid surgery, incisions are typically made within the natural fold or crease of the upper lid. The benefit here is twofold: not only does this make the scar virtually invisible when your eyes are open, but it also blends seamlessly with the eyelid’s natural lines when they are closed.
Lower Eyelid Incisions: A Tale of Two Techniques
Lower eyelid surgery involves one of two incision options:
- Transcutaneous Incision: If your lower eyelids require a more comprehensive approach — addressing skin, fat and muscle — the incision is generally made just below your eyelash line.
- Transconjunctival Incision: If you only need adjustments to fat and muscle without skin removal, the incision is made on the inner lining of the eyelid. This technique leaves no visible external scarring, as the incision is concealed within the eyelid.
Repositioning and Removing: Tissue Manipulation
After making the incisions, your plastic surgeon works on reshaping your eyelids by either removing or repositioning excess skin, fat and muscle. This step is where the real transformation happens; Dr. Ridenour’s expertise shines through his ability to give your eyelids a youthful and refreshed appearance.
Muscle Tightening
Loose or slackened muscles can dramatically impact the look of your eyes. Dr. Ridenour may tighten these muscles by suturing them into a new, lifted position. This contributes to a smoother, firmer eyelid and can further enhance your overall outcome.
Fat Redistribution or Removal
Your eyelids can develop fatty deposits over time, contributing to a puffy, tired appearance. Dr. Ridenour may redistribute this fat to areas that could benefit from more volume, such as hollows or grooves. Alternatively, Dr. Ridenour may remove a portion of the fat to reduce puffiness. Specialized forceps and surgical scissors are often used for this part of the procedure.
Targeting Excess Skin
One of the main objectives during blepharoplasty is to deal with drooping or sagging skin. Dr. Ridenour uses a scalpel or surgical scissors to carefully trim away this excess, following the natural contours of your eyelids. The removal is executed with meticulous precision to avoid any asymmetry or unnatural tightness post-surgery.
Precision in Every Step: Dr. Ridenour’s Techniques
Crafting the ideal eyelid appearance is a multi-faceted process that demands the utmost precision. Dr. Ridenour employs specific techniques designed to offer not only impeccable results but also a tailored experience for each patient.
Layer-by-Layer Approach
Often, Dr. Ridenour works layer by layer, first targeting the muscles, followed by the fat, and finally, the skin. This tiered approach allows for better control and customization, adapting to the unique anatomical requirements of your eyelids.
Test and Refine
Before suturing the incisions closed, Dr. Ridenour may open and close your eyes or ask you to sit up briefly (if you’re not under general anesthesia). This helps to test your new eyelid configuration, ensuring that it meets your aesthetic goals and allowing for last-minute adjustments.
Securing the New You: Incision Closure
Once your eyelid reshaping is complete, the incisions are closed using meticulous suturing techniques. These sutures secure your new eyelid contours and minimize any potential scarring. After this step, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where you’ll be monitored as the anesthesia wears off.
Find Out What’s Needed During Your Eyelid Surgery
Each of the steps in eyelid surgery requires a detailed understanding of both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the eyelids. Your consultation at Ridenour Plastic Surgery in St. Louis is an excellent opportunity to discuss these intricacies and plan your surgery in a way that aligns with your goals.
Learn More About Blepharoplasty at Ridenour Plastic Surgery in St. Louis
While understanding the procedure is crucial, equally vital is choosing the right surgeon and facility. At Ridenour Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on offering a personalized and professional service that caters to your individual needs. Dr. Ridenour is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and an expert in blepharoplasty. He looks forward to guiding you through the decision-making process, from choosing your anesthesia type and incision location to post-surgery care.
Are you ready to discuss your options for eyelid surgery?Schedule your consultation online or give us a call at(314) 878-8600 today!
