About Blepharoplasty Surgery

Mevish Jaffer

For many people, the signs of facial aging begin to appear in the mid to late thirties with the development of excess skin, fine lines, crow’s feet and lower eyelid bags. As these skin conditions continue to worsen, individuals wind up looking more and more tired. Fortunately, this problem can be significantly reduced or completely corrected through a plastic surgery procedure known as blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery.

Am I an Eyelid Surgery Candidate?

Although most people undergo eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons, there can also be certain conditions that deem the procedure necessary for medical reasons. For example, in some cases, the droopiness of the lids can actually interfere with a person’s peripheral vision. Regardless of the specific reasons for blepharoplasty, it’s important for individuals to be aware of certain factors that are involved with this type of cosmetic surgery before consenting to the procedure.

Procedure Information

In most cases, blepharoplasty surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The use of additional sedatives may also be necessary for patients who are overly nervous about the eyelid surgery. Supplemental anesthesia can also help patients relax if they suffer from any pain when the excess fat is being removed.

Prior to performing the eyelid surgery, surgeons check the patient’s vision and some may insert protective gear, such as plastic lenses in order to shield the eyes. Plastic surgeons also determine the amount of tissue which needs to be removed by drawing an outline on the patient’s eyelids with a colored instrument that later allows them to clearly see the points of distinction.

Unlike facelift surgery, which focuses on removing imperfections such as wrinkles and excess fat from the entire face, eyelid surgery centers on enhancing the facial features surrounding the eye area and improving an individual’s overall aesthetics. Blepharoplasty surgery typically involves the following steps:

• The surgery begins with small incisions, which the plastic surgeon makes at the existing creases under the eyelids
• Excess fat and tissue is then removed
• The incisions are closed, unveiling a more youthful and vibrant look

 

Blepharoplasty Risks

Similar to facelift surgery, there are also certain risks involved with eyelid surgery that patients should be aware of. They include the following:

• Blindness
• Blurred or double vision
• Excessively dry eyes
• Inability to fully close one or both eyes
• Infection
• Swelling

 

Although there may be some initial swelling and bruising once the procedure is completed, most patients do not experience much pain. For those who do experience soreness or tightness upon completion of the surgery, pain killers can be prescribed in order to lessen the discomfort.  

Recovery Information

While the recovery time for individuals who undergo eyelid surgery varies from person to person, most individuals are able to go out in public again within seven to ten days. Fortunately, patients can take several measures both before and after the surgery in order to have a successful post-operative experience. For instance, it is recommended that patients stop the consumption of aspirin three weeks before the cosmetic surgery is to be performed. Blepharoplasty surgery patients are also advised to keep their head and eyes iced for the first 24 hours after the procedure is completed. Additionally, antibiotic ointments help to keep the eyelids moist, which is very important after surgery.

Post-Op Eyelid Surgery Procedure

There are also other post-operative considerations to think about. For instance, it’s common for patients to have initial sensitivity towards sunlight or wind after eyelid surgery. Therefore, they are advised to wear sunglasses as a shield against these types of exposures. Everyday activities such as watching television and reading should also be limited for the first few days and wearing contact lenses is also prohibited directly after eyelid surgery.

Patients should always consult with certified plastic surgeons when seeking a blepharoplasty procedure. It’s also important for them to take the time to discuss all of the available options, as well as potential for risks and complications.