Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)

Consultation

During your consultation, you and your plastic surgeon will discuss why you need the surgery, and what you hope to achieve. You will also discuss the process of the surgery and everything that will be involved until your recovery period. You should be completely open with the doctor about your expectations, concerns and habits. Your medical history will be evaluated to determine candidacy for the surgery. The doctor will also take photos of your eyes so that you can see the difference after the surgery.

There are certain guidelines that the doctor will advise you to follow before the surgery, like stop smoking at least three weeks before the surgery, to strictly avoid anti-inflammatory drugs or medicines having aspirin so that the risk of excess bleeding is reduced.

Surgery

Blepharoplasty can be performed in outpatient or inpatient setting depending on the procedure. It takes around 1 to hours. Upper eyelid and lower eyelid both can be treated at the same time if required.

Upper blepharoplasty is a procedure that eliminates excess skin and fat in the upper eyelid to correct eyelid hooding and helps get rid of crow’s feet appearance and other fine lines around the eyes. This surgery is performed under local anesthesia and an incision is made in the natural fold of the eyelid. The fat pockets are removed or repositioned while the excess skin is trimmed, removable sutures are used to close the incision.

On the other hand, lower blepharoplasty is done to provide a more awake and rejuvenated appearance by reducing the signs of puffiness and bags under the eyes. This procedure is also done under general anesthesia where an incision is made just below the lash line to remove or reposition the excess skin, muscles, or fatty tissues. In the end, removable sutures are used to close the incision.

Post Surgery

Following the surgery, lubricating ointment and cold compresses may be applied, and in some cases your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze. Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses and ointment. Irritation at the incision sites is also possible.

The results of eyelid surgery will be long-lasting. While there usually is little pain involved in this surgery. It may take a few months before final healing is completed.

After Care

In order to have successful long-lasting results it is important to follow the below:

• Take pain medication as per prescription.
• Sleeping propped up will minimize the swelling. Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Keep your eyes clean and use eye drops to lubricate your eyes.
• Keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping.
• Avoid makeup for recommended period and contact lenses for 72 hours.
• Avoid watching television.
• Avoid strenuous activities.
• It is important to attend the follow-up appointments with your doctor to keep your track of your progress.