Eyelid surgery is becoming one of the more sought after procedures and can be performed for both cosmetic and medical reasons.

With an increase in enquiries about this particular procedure, there is also an increasing need to educate potential patients on what it involves.

Upper and lower blepharoplasty procedure

Upper blepharoplasty surgery uses incisions in the skin to allow for the removal of skin and fat. A thin stitch is then used to bring the skin together and to allow for the creation of an eyelid crease. When performed on the lower eyelid, the removal of excess skin and fat can reduce excess skin and  fat tissue and improve the shape of the lower eye. Sometimes tightening the eyelid is needed to correct droopiness or sagging. As with all procedures, the details of a blepharoplasty surgery differ according to the patient’s individual needs, but the procedure generally follows these steps:
  1. Upper eyelid: An incision in the skin fold across the eyelid is made to combat any drooping. Lower eyelid: An incision is made either just below the lashes or on the inside of the lower lid (a transconjunctival incision).
  2. Excess skin is removed.
  3. Excess fat and/or is removed or repositioned.
  4. Muscles and other underlying tissue are tightened with sutures.
  5. Incisions are closed with stitches, surgical tape or tissue glue.
Your surgeon will attempt to place all incisions within natural skin folds and creases, and thereby produce natural looking results.

How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?

The recovery time after a blepharoplasty is relatively short. While bruising and swelling is typically worse on the days directly following surgery, they tend to fade rapidly. After the procedure, you may also experience:
  • numbness or mild discomfort
  • bruising/swelling on the whites of the eyes
  • wet, dry or irritated eyes
  • sensitivity to light
Cool compresses can significantly reduce bruising and swelling around the eyes and face. Walking and other light activities can help the healing process and most people are able to return to normal activities after 7 to 10 days.  While it can take up to a year for incisions to fully heal, your final results will be visible within weeks.

What are the potential risks and complications of eyelid surgery?

As with any surgery, there are potential risks such as infection, bleeding or scarring. Complications that are specific to blepharoplasty include abnormal positioning of the eyelids which can lead to the inability to close the eyes, double vision and loss of vision. Talk with your surgeon about the risks and benefits of blepharoplasty and what results you can expect.

Comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care

Prior to surgery, the patient should have a detailed discussion with their surgeon about the procedure and any potential risks. The patient should always follow the doctor’s preoperative instructions carefully to be thoroughly prepared. Postoperative care begins immediately after surgery. Patients will be monitored during their hospital stay and should receive comprehensive instructions to follow once discharged. Regular appointments should then be held after the procedure to ensure successful healing. If you think that you could benefit from blepharoplasty, please contact Associate Professor Dean White’s practice to receive more information or to book a consultation.