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My Extreme Makeover. Eyelid Surgery. Father Time & Gravity Catch Me.

By
Industry Observer

This is a quick story of my own "Extreme Makeover". I had eyelid surgery this past Thursday. I know this may not be a front and center topic for a real estate blog. There may be those out there who are going through what I have gone through and would be interested, so I thought I would post about it. I will say that my wife wasn't really in favor of this post but I appreciated those who wrote while I was considering this procedure. The medical term for my procedure is called Blepharoplasty. Father Time and gravity had finally caught up with me. I'm 48 years old and my eyelids have been giving me problems for the last few years.


There were days when I felt fine and energized, but my eyelids were heavy and my eyes would become so tired. If any of you suffer from this, then you know exactly what I'm saying. I did not have this procedure performed for cosmetic reasons. My peripheral vision was tested and my eyelids did affect my vision. My surgery was approved by insurance due to this fact. If it shaves a few years off my appearance I won't complain.


I posted before and after pictures below. These are not very graphic but it is what you can expect if any of you are contemplating this type of surgery. The surgery was virtually painless. I have not suffered any pain at all. What you must consider and devote yourself to, is the time of recovery. It's a 2 person rehabilitation. The first 2 days after surgery, you must ice your eyes for 30 minutes every hour. The next few days you must ice 4 times per day. I have listened to a lot of podcasts with earphones the last few days.


I am in my 4th day of recovery now. The swelling is going down and I'm very impressed with what I feel the results will be. I have not gone out in public yet because I still have stitches. The stitches will be removed on Wednesday, 6 days after the surgery. My wife has been a wonderful caregiver and I couldn't have done this without her. I'll be happy to answer any questions for anyone considering this procedure yourself. Just ask.

 

Before PictureAfter Surgery

Comments(7)

Bob & Carolin Benjamin
Benjamin Realty LLC - Gold Canyon, AZ
East Phoenix Arizona Homes

OMG, we have heard of this surgery but it sounds way scary. Anyone cutting near the eyes is scary indeed. All the best. Thanks for sharing. We wish you well (and your wife as well.)

Jun 29, 2008 04:39 AM
Pam Joffe
Solaris Realty - Tampa, FL

Good afternoon Steve- I am glad you are not having any pain with the surgery, goos luck with your recovery.

Jun 29, 2008 04:46 AM
Elaine Hanson
Coldwell Banker Realty - Malibu | Topanga - Malibu, CA
REALTOR - Topanga, CA Real Estate Agent

Steve, I have a friend who had this surgery for the same reasons you did.  Her vision was being seriously compromised and her eye doctor was very insistent that she not let her peripheral vison diminish.  The side effect to the surgery was that she looked absolutley refreshed!  Not altered or tightened, just vibrant!  I hope your recovery is smooth and that you feel as refreshed as you will look.

Jun 29, 2008 04:47 AM
Bob Cumiskey
A1 Connection Realty, Inc. - Sun City Center, FL
US Army Retired, Your Sun City Center, Florida ~ Realtor

Steve, I'm curious to see what the final outcome will be.  Be sure to post another with the eye when it's totally healed.  Good luck with your recovery.

Jun 29, 2008 10:58 AM
Lesley Lambert
Park Square Realty serving Western MA - Westfield, MA
Real Estate Agent - Realtor - Westfield, MA - 413-

Steve, I just met a surgeon to discuss this same surgery.  I am hoping to be able to get it done in the next year or two.  Thanks for the info!

Jun 30, 2008 04:22 AM
xxx x
Albany, NY

Go for it Lesley. Just remember the time commitment for recovery. I'm very happy with the outcome so far. 

Jun 30, 2008 04:30 AM
DEBORAH STONE
Balboa Real Estate San Diego, CA - San Diego, CA

Had it. Love it!

Jun 30, 2008 11:52 AM