What is eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)?
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at rejuvenating the appearance of the eyelids by removing excess skin, fat, or muscle. It can address concerns such as droopy eyelids, puffiness, bags under the eyes, or sagging skin around the eyes.
Why is eyelid surgery performed?
Eyelid surgery may be performed for various reasons, including:
- Correcting droopy or sagging upper eyelids that may impair vision or create a tired appearance.
- Removing excess skin and fat from the lower eyelids to reduce puffiness or bags under the eyes.
- Improving the overall appearance of the eyes for a more youthful and refreshed look.
How is eyelid surgery performed?
The specific technique used for eyelid surgery depends on the patient’s individual needs and goals. Generally, the procedure involves making precise incisions along the natural creases of the eyelids to access the underlying tissues. Excess skin, fat, or muscle is then removed or repositioned as needed to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. The incisions are carefully closed with sutures, resulting in minimal scarring.
Is eyelid surgery performed under anesthesia?
Yes, eyelid surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s preference.
What is the recovery process like after eyelid surgery?
After eyelid surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, bruising, and temporary blurred vision. Cold compresses and pain medication may be prescribed to manage these symptoms. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, keep their head elevated, and follow post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon.
Are there any risks or complications associated with eyelid surgery?
While eyelid surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks, including:
- Bleeding and bruising
- Infection
- Dry eyes
- Temporary or permanent changes in eyelid sensation
- Asymmetry or uneven results
- Difficulty closing the eyes completely
- Scarring
When will I see the final results of eyelid surgery?
While some initial improvement may be noticeable soon after the surgery, it may take several weeks to months for the swelling to fully subside and the final results to become apparent. The eyelids will continue to refine in shape and appearance over time.
How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?
The results of eyelid surgery are generally long-lasting, especially when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon. However, factors such as aging, sun exposure, and lifestyle habits may affect the longevity of the results.
How can I schedule a consultation for eyelid surgery?
If you’re considering eyelid surgery, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a Surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable treatment options for you.
What does the procedure involve?
The procedure is usually performed under heavy or “twilight” sedation, which generally means that an overnight stay in hospital is not necessary and that recovery time is decreased. Incisions are made following the natural lines of your eyelids in the creases of the upper lids and just below the lashes in the lower lids. These incisions are extended a little way into the crow’s feet or laughter lines at the corner of the eye. Through this incision surplus fat and skin is removed and sagging muscle tightened. In the lower eyelid the cutting of skin may not be necessary and fat may be removed from inside the eyelid.
What are the risks and likely after-effects?
Cosmetic Surgery, like any other surgery, involves a “trauma” to the human body and there are risks associated with any procedure. Each person’s
body is different, and your general health, level of fitness, age and genetic profile will all have am effect on the speed of healing and also on the risk of side-effects.
If you smoke, drink alcohol, are overweight and/or take drugs for medical Or other reaons, the risk of complication during and after surgery can be
greatly increased. Smoking, in particular, is discouraged because it increases the risk both of infection, wound breakdown and thrombosis be controlled and reduced by taking regular prescribed medication (blood clots).
Occasionally a pool of blood (haematoma) can collect under the skin After the operation, but this usually disperses over two or three weeks. If
very large, your surgeon will drain it. Rarely, a lower eyelid may droop, a condition called ectropion. This can be corrected by further surgery
What will happen after the operation?
Post-Op
Your surgeon will see you when you have come round from the anaesthetic to check that all is well, and you will usually be discharged the same day.
You’ll be given medication and post-operative instructions along with appropriate telephone numbers in case you need to contact us at any time.
Week 1 – 2
For the first few days after the operation you will be advised to keep your head elevated and use cold compresses to reduce swelling. You will also
be able to use a prescribed ointment for the first few days. After a week or so you will be able to apply it soon afterwards. You will see our nurse who will remove the stitches, and if you use make-up westerly for a few weeks afterwards. Occasionally you may experience.
Bruising and swelling will gradually subside although the eyes may remain dryness and itchiness. Tightening of scars can make lids feel heavy or
“different” for the fist few weeks. Vision may be hazy for first 1-2 weeks.
Weeks 8 – 12
Your surgeon will see you again, usually 8-10 weeks after the procedure for a full post-operative check. By this stage all swelling should have disappeared and scars will gradually fade over a period of a few months.
Full post-operative cover
We’re confident that you will be delighted with the results. For that reason, we guarantee that we will provide post-operative cover for a full three
years after you procedure. It’s our way of ensuring that you have peace of mind and confidence in Linia.
Period of reflection
Cosmetic surgery is a purely elective procedure and careful consideration should be given to both the potential benefits and the risks, before making
a decision to proceed. Linia recommends that, following consultation with your surgeon, you allow a period of at least fourteen days before making
a decision.