Blepharoplasty (Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery) is a procedure used to create double eyelids, correct drooping upper lids or reduce puffy bags beneath the eyes. It is used to remove fats, as well as excess skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. This surgical procedure is often done alone, though it may be performed in conjunction with facelifts or brow lifts.
As we age, the skin on our eyelid stretches, the muscles weaken and fats begin to accumulate. Such excess around the eyes causes people to look tired and could possibly interfere with their vision.
Blepharoplasty can make a remarkable difference in the appearance of the face, alleviating the appearance of tiredness and old age by eliminating the excess, wrinkly skin beneath the eyes. The eyes appear fresher and more youthful and the results may last for a number of years. The degree of improvement varies from patient to patient.
Blepharoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis with local anaesthesia and takes about an hour. You will be conscious during the procedure. The incision cuts are hidden in the natural lines of your eyes to minimize visible scarring. Excess fats and sagging skin are reduced after the incisions are sutured.
After surgery, the physician will apply eye ointment to your incision to reduce dryness in this area. Your vision may be blurred temporarily from the ointment. The first evening after surgery, you should rest with your head elevated. Applying cold compresses to your eyelids will help to reduce the swelling. Although you can be up almost immediately, you should limit your activities.
Bruising from this procedure can last up to a month, and patients should also expect to experience excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, and blurred and double vision for the first few days. Most patients can return to work or resume normal routine after seven days. In some cases, however, patients experience difficulty in closing their eyes; in very rare cases, this can be permanent. Another rare risk is the occurrence of ectropion, which is the pulling of lower lids. Both of these conditions can be corrected.
