Eye Lid Surgery / Blepharoplasty


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Indications
  • Wrinkles and deep lines in eyelid skin
  • Puffiness in the upper or lower eyelids
  • Excess skin folds in the upper eyelids
Anesthesia
  • Local anesthetic and sedation
Duration
  • 1.5- 2.5 hrs
Procedure
  • In the upper eyelid, through an incision hidden within the upper lid fold, excess skin, stretched muscle, and protruding fat are removed
  • In the lower eyelid, protruding fat is removed through an external incision placed just below the eyelashes. Sagging skin and muscle is trimmed and tightened to re-suspend and support the lower eyelid
Recovery
  • Swelling and bruising of the eyelids peak at 2 days after surgery and rapidly resolve over the next 2 weeks
  • Temporary discomfort, tightness of the eyelids, burning and itching, excessive tearing and sensitivity to light are common in the first few weeks
  • Patients are able to read or watch television after 2-3 days
  • Return to work after 10 days, but no strenuous activity for 3 weeks
  • Contact lenses cannot be worn for 2 weeks
  • Subtle swelling may persist for up to 6 months
Result
  • Provides a smoothing of eyelid skin which lasts for years
  • The fat removal is permanent
Risks
  • Infection, hematoma, scarring
  • Residual asymmetry in eyelid shape
  • Visual disturbances, including blindness (extremely rare)
  • Difficulty in closing the eyes completely (extremely rare and may require revisional surgery)
  • Drying of the eyes or tearing