Eyelid surgery

Overview

Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate excess skin from the eyelids. This intervention targets the reduction of bagginess in the lower eyelids and the removal of surplus skin from the upper eyelids. The aging process leads to a gradual loss of skin elasticity, coupled with the constant influence of gravity, resulting in the accumulation of excessive skin in both upper and lower eyelids. Blepharoplasty can be conducted on either the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

Typically, blepharoplasty involves the removal of excess skin, muscle, and underlying fatty tissue. However, in some cases, healthcare providers may opt for tissue repositioning rather than outright removal. Although primarily pursued for cosmetic purposes, blepharoplasty can also enhance the visual field for individuals whose drooping upper eyelids obstruct their vision.

It is essential to note that blepharoplasty, particularly when involving fat removal, does not address concerns such as dark circles under the eyes or the elimination of crow’s feet and other facial wrinkles. Procedures like repositioning fat, filling under-eye hollows, or lifting the cheeks can effectively address these issues. Additionally, healthcare providers may perform blepharoplasty concurrently with other facial surgeries, such as laser resurfacing or brow lifts.

Reasons for undergoing the procedure

Candidates for blepharoplasty surgery typically include individuals aged 30 or older, in good overall health, and without other ocular conditions. If considering this procedure, inform your healthcare provider about any of the following conditions:

• Eye diseases, such as glaucoma, dry eyes, or a detached retina.
• Thyroid disorders, including Graves’ disease, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism.
• Cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or other circulatory disorders.
• Diabetes.

Risks

Like any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries a certain degree of risk, although complications and unfavorable outcomes are uncommon. Potential issues include:

• Scarring.
• Infection.
• Lower-lid lash line pulled down.
• Bleeding.
• Unusual discoloration of eyelids.
• Abnormal folding of eyelid skin.
• Rare instances of vision loss.
• Dry eyes.

Difficulty fully closing the eyes.While these complications are rare, it is crucial to be informed about them before deciding to undergo the surgery. Despite the potential risks, the majority of individuals are satisfied with the results of blepharoplasty.

Before the procedure

Your oculoplastic surgeon or ophthalmologist may require you to do the following in order to get ready for a blepharoplasty procedure:

• Medical evaluation and testing: Complete necessary lab testing or a medical evaluation as recommended.
• Smoking cessation: Quit smoking to enhance the success of the surgical procedure.
• Medication adjustments: Modify current medications or initiate specific medications as prescribed.
• Avoid certain substances: Stop taking anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, blood thinners, multivitamins, and herbal supplements to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Transportation arrangements: Coordinate with a reliable family member or friend who can drive you home post-surgery.[Text Wrapping Break]

During the procedure

Blepharoplasty, tailored to individual goals and surgeon recommendations, can address either the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

• Upper blepharoplasty: In an upper blepharoplasty, incisions are strategically made within the natural crease of the upper eyelid, ensuring they remain discreet when the eyes are open. The surgeon removes excess skin and protruding fat before closing the incisions.
• Lower blepharoplasty: For lower blepharoplasty, an incision is typically made just below the lower eyelash line. Excess skin in the lower eyelid is removed through this incision. Alternatively, a transconjunctival incision inside the lower eyelid may be used to address lower eyelid concerns and manage excess fat.

The duration of a blepharoplasty varies. An upper blepharoplasty alone usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour. When both upper and lower eyelids are addressed simultaneously, the procedure may extend to about two hours. The timeframe can be influenced by factors such as the repositioning of fat or additional enhancements deemed necessary by the surgeon.

After the procedure

Each upper eyelid will have a stitch that will be in place for approximately one week. If the incisions for the lower lids are made on the inside, stitches are typically not needed. Swelling and bruising are common in both the upper and lower lids. Plan to take some time off from work and limit activities for several days post-surgery to facilitate the healing of your eyelids.

Outcome

While the surgery is generally painless, it’s common to experience swelling and bruising. Many individuals find it comfortable to resume public activities after 10 to 14 days, but complete healing may take a few months.

Throughout your recovery from blepharoplasty, you can alleviate swelling with cold compresses and apply antibiotic ointment. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions, including guidance on eye care, prescribed medications for healing and infection prevention, specific issues to monitor at the surgical site, and the recommended timing for follow-up appointments.