When An Eyelid Lift Is Safe

By Anita Mandal, M.D. –
Q: I am 72 years old and was told I should not have eyelid surgery due to my poor eyelid tone? Can you explain the reason as my surgeon never took the time to?
A: Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift, is performed to remove excess skin, fat and/or muscle from the upper eyelids, lower lids or both. In some patients who are at higher risk, blepharoplasty can be performed in a more conservative manner, allowing both satisfactory rejuvenation as well as minimal risk.
Because there are certain instances under which having eyelid surgery can give unacceptable risk, it is important for your surgeon to be skilled in identifying the risk criterion prior to surgery. Your surgeon can then either modify the procedure to make it safer for you or recommend that you just have upper eyelid surgery or only the lower lids. In higher risk situations, your doctor may advise that you not have the procedure at all. Of course, as part of being a realistic patient, it is important to understand that all surgery comes with some degree of risk, however small.
Situations that may alert your surgeon to higher than usual risk include:
. A bulging or prominent eyeball
. Very flat or recessed cheekbones
. Poor lower eyelid skin/tissue tone
. Dry eye syndrome or similar symptoms
. Certain thyroid conditions
. Excessive show of the white part of the eyeball
While the above list highlights some of the important reasons why a surgeon may advise against eyelid surgery, in milder cases, eyelid surgery can be performed safely by modifying the procedure to accommodate one’s unique anatomy and function.
It can not only be important to rejuvenate and improve the appearance of the eyelids with blepharoplasty but also to maintain and/or restore function of the eyelids. When it comes to choosing a Facial Plastic Surgeon, experience and sound judgment in knowing when and when not to perform surgery can be as crucial as technical expertise.
Anita Mandal, M.D.
Dr. Anita Mandal is a double board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who has been practicing for over 15 years. She specializes exclusively in cosmetic procedures of the head, face and neck  consisting of both surgical as well as non-surgical treatments. Dr. Mandal’s areas of expertise include facial rejuvenation, hair replacement surgery and rhinoplasty.
Her offices overlook the beautiful Soverel Harbour Marina in the heart of Palm Beach Gardens and house two state-of-the-art surgical suites for patient privacy, comfort and convenience. Dr. Mandal can be reached at 561-238-0040. To ask a question, please email drmandal@comcast.net
Mandal Plastic Surgery Center, P.A.
2401 PGA Blvd., Ste. 146
Palm Beach Gardens
561-238-0040
www.mandalplasticsurgery.com

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