Are you considering eyelid surgery to correct one or more concerns around your eyes? Blepharoplasty, as eyelid surgery is correctly called, is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the functionality and aesthetics of your eyelids.

Whether repairing eyelids that droop or sag, or removing excess skin from around the eyes, this procedure can make a world of difference for you and for your aesthetic goals.

We’ve gathered all of the facts that you need to know about eyelid surgery before you make the decision to undergo this surgery.

Types of eyelid surgery

There are three types of eyelid surgery, each offering a distinct benefit. The procedure that will work best for you will depend on factors that are unique to your eyes and any other health conditions that you may have.

1. Lower eyelid surgery focuses around the lower eyelid. The focus is quite often on reducing wrinkles, correcting the unsightly bags under the eyes and generally improving the appearance. The incision will be made inside of the lower lid or under the lower lash line. This will minimise the appearance of scarring. Loose skin and fatty tissue is removed. Dissolvable stitches will close the incisions. The surgery typically takes up to two hours to complete.

2. Upper eyelid surgery focuses on improving vision that may be impacted by drooping and sagging eyelids as a result of genetics or ageing. The focus on the upper eyelid will restore eye function and result in a much more open and rounded refreshed look. Incisions will be strategically placed in the natural fold of the upper eyelid. In effort to minimize the appearance of scarring. Excess tissue will be removed before the incisions are closed with small stitches. This surgery typically takes an hour to complete.

3. Upper and lower eyelid surgery can correct concerns with both the upper and lower eyelid. It can create wider eyes. and a refreshed appearance. The incision will be made in the natural crease of the eye to minimise scarring.

What can eyelid surgery correct?

As we grow older, the skin that is around our eyes can droop or sag. This may be as the result of genetics. If someone in your family had drooping eyes, bags under their eyes or some other issue with the eyelids, you are more likely to have them. Some eyes may have hooded or heavy eyelids, while others may feature under eye bags that are quite pronounced. Some also find that they have pockets of excess fat surrounding their eyes, which can also leave them with drooping eyelids that make them look tired.

Loose and excess skin that is around the eyes can also be as the result of long-term allergies, infections, smoking or from sun damage. In some patients this excess skin can prove to be heavy, and make it challenging to completely open the eyes. This can lead to issues with vision.

Possible complications of eyelid surgery

Complications are possible with any type of surgical procedure, which is why it is so important to select the right surgeon to complete your cosmetic surgery. Our principal surgeon, Dr Chaithan Reddy will know how to best minimise the potential for complications.

Swelling and bruising are quite common after eyelid surgery. You may experience some minor bleeding. Other potential side-effects that you may experience could include the following.

• Swelling
• Dry eyes
• Watery eyes
• Numbness around the eye
• Grittiness feelings in the eyes
• Transient blurred vision

These are all considered to be fairly normal side-effects of the surgery. They will pass swiftly, as you start to heal from the surgery.

Serious side-effects from the surgery are possible. If you experience any of the following concerns, it’s important that you reach out to your surgeon for further guidance.

• Severe pain in the eyes
• Signs of infection
• Blurred vision that doesn’t improve
• Double vision

Recovering from your eyelid surgery

Those who undergo blepharoplasty typically face a relatively short recovery time. The day after surgery will see the bruising and swelling to be at their worst. Using cold compresses around the eyes and on the face can drastically reduce the bruising and swelling that you see.

During the first two to 3 days after surgery, you may feel some nausea from the anaesthesia that was used during the surgery. Expect to feel somewhat fatigued during these first postoperative days. Your eyes may feel tender, taut and warm to the touch but they should not feel feverish. You could start to feel itching at the incisions sites; this is a normal part of healing and may stick around for a few weeks.

By a full week of recovery, any discomfort you’d previously felt should minimal. You may no longer need to rely on pain relievers to keep you comfortable. While your vision may be clearer at this point in your recovery, you may want to continue avoiding activities that could potentially dry out your eyes, like watching television or reading.

The majority of eyelid surgery patients will be able to return to their normal activities within seven to 10 postoperative days. By the two-week mark, most of the swelling and bruising will have resolved. After two or three weeks of recovery, you may be able to resume wearing makeup on your eyes, and you may be able to resume wearing your contact lenses.

Between four and 6 weeks you should be able to see the final results of your surgery. You should be fully recovered and all restrictions should be lifted.

Quick tips for recovering from eyelid surgery

• Be sure to always follow the post-procedure instructions that your surgeon provides to you
• Attend each of your postoperative appointments as scheduled
• Ensure you are taking plenty of time off from work
• Recruit a family member or friend to help you during the first postoperative week
• Avoid alcohol, smoking cigarettes and taking medications that your surgeon isn’t aware of
• Rely on cold compresses to reduce bruising and swelling
• Get plenty of pillows so you can sleep with an elevated head
• Get plenty of rest after surgery
• Eat healthy and stay hydrated

Are you ready to learn about your candidacy for eyelid surgery? Schedule your consultation with The Plastic Surgery Clinic.