Blepharoplasty

We can perform blepharoplasty to correct sagging eyelids, bags or pouches beneath the eyes, as well as excess folds around the eyes. This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess skin and/or fat on upper and lower eyelids and is often performed in conjunction with other surgical procedures including facelifts, eyebrow, and forehead lifts. Blepharoplasty can be done comfortably under local anaesthesia, I.V. sedation (most commonly), or general anaesthesia.

One of our facial cosmetic surgeons will trace the natural lines and creases of your face and make incredibly fine incisions from the inner to the outer edge of the eyelid. Surgery on the upper eyelid is performed first with the incision made in the fold of the lid. The incision is made below the eyelash on the lower eyelid if skin is being removed or the lid 'tightened', otherwise the incision is on the inside of the lower eyelid. Any excess fat and skin are removed from the underlying compartments. Small sutures are used to close the incision and special ointments and dressings may be applied. The surgery can take up to two hours. Lasers may be used at the same time to reduce wrinkles or tighten the lax skin.

Blepharoplasty surgery by itself will not correct sagging eyebrows or wrinkles to the sides of the eyes ('crow's feet'). Other procedures such as Botox', brow lifting, or skin resurfacing may be indicated alone or in combination with blepharoplasty to correct your concerns.

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Initially, drying of the eyes can occur after blepharoplasty. You may feel tightness around your eyes. Ice or cool cloth compresses will make you feel more comfortable and will minimize the swelling and bruising. Swelling and bruising varies from one patient to the next, but usually reaches a peak 2 to 3 days after surgery. These usually improve very quickly. Some numbness and itching may also occur during the healing process. You will often be seen within a few days at the office, and regular follow-up appointments will be necessary. Sutures will be removed, if necessary, approximately one week after surgery.

The more closely you follow instructions given by your surgical team, the lower the chance of complications and the greater the chance you will recover and look better sooner.

Insurance

Your insurance company may pay for part of the cost of surgery if the procedure is performed as a result of visual impairment.

What Are The Risks Of Blepharoplasty?

All surgery carries some risk, but usually they are minor and not permanent. Complications include bleeding, infection or blood clots. You can reduce the risks by closely following your instructions before and after surgery. You may have a reaction to the anaesthesia or prescribed medications.

The minor complications that occasionally follow blepharoplasty include double or blurred vision for a few days. Visible scars, tightness in the lids, drooping lower lids, or dryness may be present, but usually improve within weeks. Occasionally these conditions are permanent, or secondary procedures are necessary to correct them. Partial vision loss in an eye occurs in extremely rare cases, but only as the result of severe complications. Your surgeon can answer any questions or concerns you may have.