Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery or Blepharoplasty is a type of cosmetic surgery that involves repair of excess muscle, skin and fat on either the upper or lower eyelids.

Excessive drooping of eyelids can impair vision. Normally, older people seek this treatment to regain clearer vision and to look younger. Since people age over time, the sagginess and droopiness of the eyelids nay return after years of surgery. For some patients, the results may be permanent.

If you wish to undergo eyelid surgery, you need to discuss with your plastic surgeon the preparations and post-surgical care. You will also need pre-consultations to discuss your medical history, current health condition and all there is to know about the procedure.

Take time to ask questions as early as possible to ensure that you are prepared when the schedule of your surgery comes.

Conditions that Eyelid Surgery can correct or fix

• Puffy or baggy upper eyelids
• Dark circles under the eyes- eye bags
• Excess skin on the lower eyelids

What to expect after an Eyelid Surgery

• Blurred vision
• Excessive tearing of the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Double vision
• Puffy and/or numb eyes
• Swelling
• Skin discoloration
• Bruising similar to black eyes
• Red and visible incisions

Precautions after the surgery

• Avoid lifting heavy loads
• Don't bend from your waist
• Don't swim
• Avoid strenuous exercises
• Avoid too much neck movements
• Elevate your head when lying down or during sleep; use a thick or high pillow
• Protect your eyes by wearing dark glasses every time you are outdoors
• Avoid tiring your eyes and activities that can dry up your eyes - watching TV, using a computer, reading, watching movies

Risks

• Infections
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Temporary numbness of the eyelids
• Dry and irritated eyes
• Weak eyelid function
• Scarring
• Bleeding behind the eyes that may likely cause blindness - quite rare

Recovering from Eyelid Surgery

It usually takes several weeks to recover after an eyelid surgery. Each patient is unique, so the recovery may vary from one patient to another.

Generally, from 2 to 7 days, the stitches can be removed. It is advisable for patients to take enough rest during the first week. Swelling and redness after an eyelid surgery will fade over time.

10 days after surgery, the patient can go back to his/her normal daily routine which also includes going back to work.

Click here to read more on Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid Surgery Recommended Resources:

UC Davis Health System

UIC Department of Ophthalmology