What is eyelid surgery? Eyelid surgery, also commonly known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. This procedure can correct a variety of conditions around the eye. During a blepharoplasty in Houston, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks can remove the excess skin surrounding the eye, as well as the fatty deposits causing under-eye bags, to create a refreshed, awake appearance. Eyelid surgery is the perfect solution to correct droopy eyelids and take away the “tired look” that aging eyes can develop.
How much does a blepharoplasty cost in Houston? The average cost of blepharoplasty in Houston typically ranges between $3,000 and $9,000. The total cost for your blepharoplasty will depend on factors such as your surgeon’s fee, the location of your procedure, and other miscellaneous medical expenses. At Heights Plastic Surgery, we accept cash and all major credit cards. We are also happy to offer financing through CareCredit® for patients. Because eyelid surgery is often more about cosmetic appearance and is less of a medical necessity, it is typically not covered by most insurance plans.
How does a blepharoplasty work? Before your blepharoplasty Houston practitioners will administer local anesthesia.. This is to ensure you are as comfortable as possible throughout the entirety of your procedure. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will then use either or both of the following techniques, depending on your biggest concerns and your desired results. They will discuss which techniques are best for you while developing your personalized treatment plan during your one-on-one consultation. Upper eyelid surgery. Upper eyelid surgery is best used to decrease the excess skin surrounding the upper eye that may be contributing to drooping eyelids or a tired appearance. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will carefully make a thin incision along the natural crease of your upper eyelid. Through this incision, they will tighten your weakened muscles and remove any excess fatty deposits, skin, and tissue. Lower eyelid surgery. Lower eyelid surgery is best used to improve the appearance of under eye bags. For lower eyelid surgery, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will carefully make a small incision along the lower lash line. Through this incision, they will be able to remove any fatty deposits or excess tissue that may be contributing to the appearance of your puffy under-eyes. Once either or both of the methods have been complete, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will suture your incisions and your recovery may begin.
What does recovery after eyelid surgery look like? Following a blepharoplasty Houston patients often experience swelling and bruising around the eyes for the first seven to 10 days after their eyelid surgery. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks may provide you with prescription medication that can help manage your pain. In addition to icing consistently for the first 48 hours following your procedure, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks and their team will ask that you keep your head elevated when laying down for the first week following your blepharoplasty. Patients are typically cleared to return to work and regular daily activities about one to two weeks following their eyelid surgery. While you will be able to see some results of your blepharoplasty after a few weeks, ultimate results will appear once all incisions are healed and swelling subsides.
Am I a good candidate for a blepharoplasty? The ideal candidate for blepharoplasty is someone who is in good general health and does not smoke. Illnesses and smoking can slow down the healing process. It is also important to note that eyelid surgery is not intended for people who have severe vision problems, thyroid eye disease, or severe allergies. Furthermore, people who are interested in getting blepharoplasty should have realistic expectations of their potential results. You should not get this or any other cosmetic procedure done to live up to someone else’s expectations.