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Eyelid Surgery for St. Petersburg, FL & Clearwater
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Patients with droopy eyelids, a condition also known as blepharoptosis, have experienced great outcomes from eyelid surgery at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute. Based in Largo, Florida, we offer blepharoplasty to patients throughout the Tampa Bay area and can perform it on the upper lids, lower lids, or both. For patients at St. Michael’s, it is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia.
Eyelid Surgery Benefits and Procedure Details
Whether you want to enhance your appearance or are experiencing vision problems as a result of reduced skin elasticity, eyelid surgery is a safe and effective treatment. Specific eyelid conditions that this procedure can treat are:
- Sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes obstructing vision
- Bags under the eyes
- Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
- Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid
Eyelid surgery often calls for the removal of excess skin, muscle, and underlying fatty tissue, so patients may need about two weeks to fully recover and resume their usual activities. Typically, you are a good candidate if you are healthy and have no medical conditions that can impair healing. If you have eye conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye, or a detached retina, you should tell your doctor during your evaluation for surgery.
For more information about eyelid surgery at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute, or to make an appointment for an evaluation with our highly skilled cosmetic surgeon, contact us today. We are committed to offering residents of Tampa Bay total eye-care solutions in a friendly and comfortable environment.
Candidates for Eyelid Surgery
You may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery if you:
- Experience drooping or sagging upper eyelids that impair your vision
- Have excess skin or puffiness in the lower eyelids, often referred to as “bags under the eyes”
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome
- Are bothered by signs of aging around your eyes, including wrinkles or sagging skin
A consultation with one of our experienced surgeons will help you to determine if blepharoplasty is the right solution for you.
What Is the Difference Between Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery can address concerns in both the upper and lower eyelid areas, but each procedure serves distinct purposes and offers unique benefits.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty focuses on the upper eyelids, where excess skin, fat, or muscle can create a heavy or drooping appearance. This condition may affect your vision, making daily tasks like reading or driving more difficult. During the procedure, your surgeon carefully removes or repositions tissues to restore a smoother, more youthful contour while lifting your eyelid. The results not only enhance the aesthetics of the upper face but also improve functionality.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty addresses aesthetic concerns beneath your eyes, such as puffiness, dark circles, and under-eye bags caused by excess fat or loose skin. This procedure focuses on smoothing the transition between your lower eyelid and your cheek to achieve a rejuvenated, well-rested appearance. Your surgeon may remove or reposition fat, tighten skin, or use advanced techniques to reduce discoloration.
For some individuals, combining both upper and lower blepharoplasty can provide balanced and harmonious results, addressing concerns across the entire eye area. Our surgeons can recommend the best approach based on your specific anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery and Results
Immediately following the procedure, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the eyes. These effects are temporary and typically resolve within one to two weeks. Cold compresses and prescribed medications can help you manage these symptoms and promote healing. Stitches are usually removed within five to seven days. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and direct sun exposure during the initial recovery period. Wearing sunglasses can help protect the delicate skin around the eyes during the healing process.
Most improvements become visible within a few weeks. The final results typically appear within three to four months when the tissues have fully healed. You likely will notice smoother, tighter skin around your eyes, a more youthful appearance, and, in cases of upper blepharoplasty, improved vision. While aging and lifestyle factors may gradually affect the eye area, the improvements achieved with blepharoplasty can provide long-lasting benefits.
Why Choose St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute?
Our skilled team at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute has decades of experience in performing eyelid surgery with precision and care. Our dedication to patient satisfaction, state-of-the-art facilities, and customized treatment plans ensure the best outcomes for each individual. Our reputation for excellence in eyelid surgery has made us a trusted choice for patients throughout the region.
To schedule a consultation with our doctors serving the Tampa Bay area, Pinellas County and Largo, FL, please call (727) 585-2200.
