Eyelid Surgery

If your eyes are the window to the soul, the eyelids are the drapes. Severely sagging skin around your eyes can make you look older, no matter how radiant and wrinkle-free your skin is. As you age, the eyelids inevitably stretch, weakening the supporting muscles. This can lead to droopy eyelids, eyebrows, and bags under your eyes. No amount of rest and diet can get rid of these unsightly creases.

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty by its proper name, is a cosmetic procedure that can restore droopy eyelids by removing excess skin, muscles and fat. When performed correctly, it can make you look younger and more alert.

How is Eyelid Surgery Performed?

Most blepharoplasty procedures are done on an outpatient basis. Instead of going under, your surgeon will apply local anaesthesia around the eye.

If you are having work done on both the upper and lower lid, the surgeon will start on the upper lid. With a small incision, they will remove any excess tissue before closing the cut, and moving to the bottom.

On the lower lid, the incision will be just below the lash-line. Again, any excess tissue is removed or excess fat is redistributed to lend a fuller appearance. If the upper eyelid droops excessively and is close to the pupil, your surgeon might also suggest an additional procedure called ptosis in conjunction with blepharoplasty to provide extra support to the eyebrow.

Eyelid Surgery Results

Many patients are extremely satisfied with the end result. Who doesn’t want a more rested, youthful appearance for that extra bit of confidence? Of course, you can expect quite a bit of swelling post-surgery, but don’t panic – this is only to be expected. The bruising should subside between 10 to 14 days after which you can go out in public with your new peepers. Patients who want to be discreet about the procedure are advised to take this time off to recover at home. The scars from the incisions will take longer to fade, but they aren’t noticeably visible. Be sure to protect your extra-delicate skin from sun exposure and harsh soaps.

Consult your Ophthalmologist

If blepharoplasty sounds right for you, consult with your qualified ophthalmologist and be transparent about your goals and medical history. Disclose any medication you might be taking, prescription or otherwise. This includes vitamins and supplements, as some herbs and medication can lead to excessive bleeding. As with any surgery, there are some risks involved in the procedure, no matter how minor. Your doctor will discuss everything in detail with you during your consultation.