December 2020

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What Happens if an Eyelid is Damaged?

We expect our eyelids to go through very little change throughout our lifetime. At most, we may understand when we notice that the upper or lower eyelids get puffy or saggy. This is a normal transition that occurs with age. However, most people do not anticipate the potential for eyelid damage, such as injury and scarring. We can’t anticipate such a thing! What is important is that, should an eyelid sustain an injury that results in scarring or retraction that interferes with blinking, the problem can be handled well. Eyelid surgeries are one of our specialties.

What Causes Eyelid Damage?

Eyelid damage may result from a traumatic injury like an auto accident or dog bite. Scarring and retraction could also be caused by medical conditions, eyelid or facial surgery, or skin cancer removal. Because the eyelid has unique anatomy, it can be challenging to repair damage. Dr. Fante have years of additional training beyond medical school that enables them to address even complex cases of eyelid trauma, as well as revision after cosmetic or reconstructive eyelid surgery.

What Is Eyelid Scarring?

Scarring is the result of any kind of injury. Even surgical incisions are a type of injury to the skin. Scar tissue formation is usually mild but may, in some cases, diminish normal mobility or position. Scarring may inhibit a person from fully closing their eye or eyes. On the lower eyelid, scarring may reveal too much of the white of the eye. With too much exposure, the eye may develop dryness, excessive tearing, and persistent irritation. Eyelids that do not fully close also increase the risk of chronic infection.

What Is Eyelid Retraction?

Eyelid retraction is a condition in which the upper eyelids are abnormally high or the lower eyelids abnormally low. The eyelids, when opened, should rest just above or below the colored part of the eye. This condition may result from trauma and scarring, poor surgical healing, or thyroid eye disease.

Treating Eyelid Scarring or Retraction

It is necessary to treat conditions that affect the appearance or function of the eyelids. An oculofacial plastic surgeon has extensive training and familiarity with the anatomy of the eyes and eyelids to develop successful treatment plans based on each patient’s needs. Generally, upper eyelid correction focuses on adjusting the levator muscle that is responsible for lifting the eyelid. This adjustment can improve eyelid position and blinking function. Lower eyelid retraction is slightly more complicated depending on the severity of the problem. In this instance, a surgeon will perform canthoplasty to tighten the lower eyelid, if possible. If necessary, tissue grafting or a mid-face lift may be recommended.

The eyelids are a primary focal point of the face. For more information regarding cosmetic or functional eyelid surgery, call our Denver office at (303) 839-1616.

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Are you Getting Botox for the First Time? Here’s What to Expect!

Botox cosmetic has been a popular beauty treatment for many years. Each year, we meet people who are ready to try this injectable out for the first time. Since its introduction, Botox has expanded in use from treating frown lines to raising eyebrows in all the right ways. Not only can this injectable raise drooping eyebrows, but it can also smooth forehead lines and crow’s feet. Additionally, Botox can also be used to prevent new wrinkles from forming too soon. No wonder it continues to draw new customers! Here, we walk you through what you can expect at your first Botox appointment.

Consultation

When you schedule an appointment for Botox, you may have a good idea already of what this FDA-approved drug can do. Many people come to their consultation thinking they know what they will need. However, it remains important for us to get to know you. An experienced provider performs a full assessment that includes a discussion about concerns and goals. The assessment also involves a look at the skin and underlying tissue. This initial step is crucial to the best possible outcome because it guides our treatment-planning process.

Treatment

Botox treatment can occur immediately following our consultation. This part of the appointment takes the least amount of time. There is no need for anesthetic. Botox is administered with a very small needle. You can expect a tiny pinching sensation but that’s about it. You don’t feel Botox “working” on the tissue into which it is introduced. After a few injections across the treatment area, your appointment is complete!

Recovery

Some people experience a little swelling and redness after getting Botox. This is a side effect of the injections themselves, not of Botox. Being new to Botox, you may want to schedule your injections at a time when you can go home and rest for the remainder of the day. This way you can see how your body reacts to the injections. Some people experience a slight headache that lasts a few hours, or feel a little tired. However, the most common side effects are swelling and pinpoint redness that lasts only an hour or two. To keep these side effects to a minimum, you should avoid excessive heat, sun exposure, and strenuous exercise for about 24 hours.

Results

Botox injections do not achieve immediate results. The mild neuromodulator gradually relaxes contracted muscles over 5 to 10 days. These effects last 3 to 6 months. The average time between touch-ups is 4 months.

Are you ready for your first Botox treatment? Contact our Denver office at (303) 839-1616.

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