Is Laser Blepharoplasty Safe?
Jan 12th, 2010 by admin
Blepharoplasty, or upper and lower eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure which corrects sagging or puffy skin around the eyes. The procedure is traditionally performed as an outpatient surgery, with the patient under general anesthesia. There are several risks associated with traditional blepharoplasty, and the recovery time is several weeks. Laser blepharoplasty is a relatively new treatment which is less invasive, less costly, and safer than the more traditional surgical method.
Laser blepharoplasty can be performed in the doctor’s office. A millimeter sized incision is placed under the fat pads of the eyes, and a laser fiber half that size is inserted. The incision is so small that it closes on its own after the fiber is removed, and no stitches are required. The incision is made with a CO2 laser, which cauterizes as it cuts. The lack of bleeding associated with this incision means the surgeon is better able to see the eye area and what he is doing.
Once inserted into the fat pads under the eyes, the laser dissolves the fat and tightens the skin. The results are visible immediately after treatment. This laser procedure induces the skin to form new collagen at a rapid rate, further tightening the under eye area over a six week period. The procedure also lightens dark circles associated with sagging lower eyelids, a benefit which conventional surgery does not always provide.
The laser blepharoplasty does not have several of the risks associated with the traditional surgical procedure. A local anesthetic is used in the laser procedure, eliminating risks that come with general anesthesia. The patient can even drive themselves home. The incision is so small that there is no blood loss, and only minimal bruising. The small incision also decreases the risk of infection. Recovery time is much faster than that of conventional surgery, and there is less swelling. Prescription pain medication is not required after the laser procedure, eliminating the risks of side effects. The major risk when choosing a laser blepharoplasty is that it is a new procedure; therefore, it is extremely important to research the plastic surgeon thoroughly to ensure he is experienced in delicate laser procedures.
