Blepharoplasty

Also known as an eyelid lift. The procedure is the removal of skin and to add or remove fat from both the upper and lower eyelids. 

Upper blepharoplasty surgery uses incisions to allow for the removal of skin and fat. A thin stitch is then used to bring the skin together to allow for the creation of an eyelid crease.

Lower eyelid surgery can involve skin incisions directly below the lash line or an incision on the inside of the eyelid called a transconjunctival approach. The transconjunctival approach allows for access to the eyelid without visible incisions, making this technique perfect for patients who need fat removed or added. This approach can be combined with laser resurfacing of the eyelid skin to reduce lines and wrinkles.

Before your eyelid surgery:
• Stop taking warfarin and any other medication or herbal supplement associated with increased bleeding.
• Quit smoking several weeks before your surgery.
• Arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and stay with you for the first night.

During the procedure
• Your surgeon injects numbing medication into your eyelids and administers intravenous medication to help you relax.
• The surgeon generally works on your upper lids first. Cutting along the fold of the eyelid, removes some excess skin, muscle and possibly fat, and closes the cut.
• Typically lasts from 45 minutes to 2 hours.

You may temporarily experience blurred or double vision, light sensitivity, swelling, and bruising which will likely resolve. Scars from the surgical cuts may take months to fade. Take care to protect your delicate eyelid skin from too much sun exposure.

Many people express satisfaction with the results of blepharoplasty, such as a more rested and youthful appearance and more self-confidence. For some people, results of surgery may last a lifetime. For others, droopy eyelids may recur.

Your doctor will likely suggest you take the following steps after surgery:

• Use ice packs for 10 minutes every hour the night after surgery. Then use it for 4/5 times throughout the day.
• Gently clean your eyelids and use prescribed eyedrops or ointments.
• Avoid straining, heavy lifting, strenuous activities and swimming for a week.
• Avoid smoking for a week.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes.
• Avoid use contact lenses, for two weeks.
• Wear darkly tinted sunglasses.
• Sleep with your head raised higher than your chest for a few days.
• For about a week, avoid aspirin, and other medications or herbal supplements that may increase bleeding.

The major risks include;

• Infection.
• Bleeding.
• Scarring.
• The inability to close the eyes.
• Dry eye.
• Abnormal eyelid position,
• Double vision, and
• Loss of vision.