What is a Blepharoplasty?
As you age, excess fat and skin around the eyelids begins to sag. Besides making you look older, severely sagging skin around your eyes can impair your vision. Blepharoplasty is a procedure that rejuvenates the upper and lower eyelids through the removal or repositioning of excess skin and fat. In order to minimize visible scaring, small incisions are made along the natural skin lines of the eyelids.
Only offered in our Northgate location by Dr. Jennifer Reichel.
Dr. Reichel's Experience with Eyelid Surgery:
From her experience with performing skin cancer surgery on and around the eyes, Dr. Reichel has a firm grasp on the anatomy of the eye. During her formal training at the University of Washington, she worked with some of the best eyelid surgeons in Seattle.
"I like to combine eyelid surgery with laser resurfacing around the eyes to erase the bags, excess skin, and wrinkles all at once. Eyes are one of the most important features of the face. It is amazing how refreshed and natural your face can look after eyelid rejuvenation."
For most, results last 10 years or more. For some, results are permanent. It can take 3 to 6 months for results to be visible.
What is the recovery from Eyelid Surgery?
Recovery time is fairly fast, for most, you can be back to normal activities in 7 days. Pain from the procedure is mild. Dr. Reichel uses local anesthetic injections to numb the area.
She also uses mild sedation during eyelid surgery to relieve any discomfort. Call 206-859-5777 for a consultation on eyelid rejuvenation.
Lower Lid Blepharoplasty
Removal of bulging orbital fat and excess skin from below the eye can improve the aged appearance and "bags" under the eyes. A consultation with Dr. Reichel would be needed to determine if this is the right procedure for you.
Dr. Reichel does lower lid blepharoplasty via the transconjunctival approach. During her cosmetic and skin cancer fellowship, Dr. Reichel trained with the leading oculoplastic and facial plastic surgeons to learn this technique.
During transconjunctival lower lid blepharoplasty, the eyeball is protected by a plastic plate. The lower lid is retracted down and away from the eye. The initial incision is made with an electrocautery cutting device along the inside of the eyelid (conjunctiva).
- A step-wise conservative removal of fat is undertaken from one, two, or all three of the fat pads, thereby sculpting the lower eyelid into its new shape.
- Care is taken to leave some of the lid's fullness intact, as a hollowed eyelid suggests aging rather than youth.
This procedure is offered in Northgate only by Dr. Reichel
MEET DR. REICHEL
Dr. Jennifer Reichel is a board-certified practicing in Seattle, Washington. As the founder and owner of Pacific Dermatology Cosmetic Center, with over 20 years of experience performing both surgical and cosmetic procedures, Dr.Reichel is an expert in facial and body rejuvenation, including body contouring, injectables, lasers, liposuction, and blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).
What You Should Know
We're committed to assisting you with any inquiries you may have. Should your questions extend beyond the information provided in our FAQ section, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office.
Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
Ideal candidates are typically healthy adults who have realistic expectations and are bothered by droopy or puffy eyelids. Candidates should not have any serious eye conditions or medical issues that could complicate surgery.
What are the benefits of blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty can enhance the appearance of the eyes, making them look more youthful and alert. It can also improve vision in cases where droopy upper eyelids obstruct the field of view.
Is blepharoplasty covered by insurance?
Blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary, such as when drooping eyelids interfere with vision. Cosmetic blepharoplasty, however, is usually not covered by insurance.
How do I prepare for blepharoplasty?
Your surgeon will provide specific preoperative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications, stopping smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery.
Before & After
