Laser blepharoplasty, which tightens the skin from the inside, is more effective than traditional eyelid surgery. There is also less risk, fewer complications, side effects, or infections-and faster healing is the result because swelling and bruising around the eyes is greatly reduced. To create a fresh appearance, the procedure reduces or eliminates saggy, puffy bags on the lower eyelids, which are signs of fatigue and aging and may also interfere with the patient’s vision. (Typically, a candidate for this surgery is over the age of 35.)

What you can expect

Laser blepharoplasty, which is usually performed on an outpatient basis, removes fatty tissue and excess skin below the eyes while reinforcing the surrounding muscles, and with 21st century technology, this is done with an accurate carbon dioxide (CO2 laser), rather than a traditional surgical blade. The procedure generally takes from one to three hours, and the patient only requires local anesthesia. The risk of bleeding during surgery is also greatly reduced because the laser actually cauterizes the blood vessels and seals the enlarged veins that can cause dark circles under the eye. In addition, it produces impressive results related to sculpting the eyelids to create the natural-looking appearance patients were hoping for.

Other benefits of laser blepharoplasty

This procedure is less expensive than traditional surgery because it is not done in an operating room and no general anesthesia is required. Since it also eliminates the need for stitches, you will not have to return to the outpatient facility to have them renewed. In addition, the recovery period will only last about two weeks if you follow the instructions you are given for post-op care.

Before scheduling this procedure, you should:
? be in good physical and mental condition,
? not have glaucoma, dry eyes, or a detached retina,
? be prepared to do the necessary after care, which may include cold compresses, using eye drops, and wearing sunglasses, and
? have realistic expectations about what the surgery will do for your appearance.

Note also that the results of laser blepharoplasty are usually long lasting, and in some cases, they many even be permanent.

Tags: bleph, Blepharoplasty, droopy eyelids, Laser Eyelid Surgery