Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is often performed for cosmetic reasons. With age, it becomes more common to experience droopy or saggy eyelids. Blepharoplasty can also be performed out of medical necessity. Having droopy eyelids may reduce your peripheral vision, making seeing more challenging.
Sagging of the upper lid is common and occurs with older age. It is caused by loose excessive skin, weak muscles, or a combination of both. In some cases, this sagging skin can hinder vision. You may simply look at your eyes and decide you want a more youthful look. During your initial consultation, Dr. Sharfi can explain what can be surgically enhanced to accomplish your desired look.
Upper blepharoplasty is a procedure that removes excess muscle, skin, and fat from your upper eyelids. Removing these excess things helps rejuvenate tired, droopy eyelids and makes you look younger and more awake. Upper blepharoplasty uses incisions in the crease of the natural eyelid, ensuring they are harder to see. Dr. Sharfi will reshape the area while minimizing any visible scarring.
During lower blepharoplasty, excess tissue and under-eye bags are removed to enhance the contour of your eyelid. An incision is carefully made below the lash line to eliminate any surplus skin. Dr. Sharfi then skillfully lifts the skin, resulting in a more attractive and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Blepharoplasty is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation. Incisions in the eyelid are usually placed in the crease above each eye, and then Dr. Sharfi removes some excess skin, muscle, and possibly fat and closes the cut. Under normal conditions, blepharoplasty can take about an hour.
Eyelid skin heals remarkably quickly, and scars are usually inconspicuous with time. Bruising and swelling are expected initially but resolve over a few weeks.
The doctors at Chicago Arbor Eye Institute believe in the importance of patient-centered care from our entire team. Our employees treat each patient with respect, as they would want to be treated if they were the patient. They are dedicated to providing excellent care and are friendly, approachable, and compassionate.
With years of experience, expertise, and leading-edge technology, our motivated team of providers at our Chicago, Homewood, and Merrionette Park locations will compassionately and professionally help preserve and restore the gift of sight, allowing you to see the important and beautiful things in your world.
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Dr. Duaa Sharfi is an ophthalmologist specializing in oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery, including eyelid malpositions, orbital fractures, lacrimal system disorders, and facial rejuvenation procedures. Dr. Sharfi prides herself in a patient-forward and evidence-based model of care. She aims to foster therapeutic relationships that are built on patient autonomy and empowerment, compassionate care, and shared decision-making. Ophthalmology beautifully merges her passion for surgery with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in patient’s lives.
