Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that is done on the upper or lower eyelid, to decrease its size. Excess fatty tissue and loose skin around the eye is removed, to open the eyes up and give them a more youthful appearance. If you want to know how is eyelid surgery done, we’ve put a step-by-step guide together to help you.
Is Eyelid Surgery Right For You?
As one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures for anti-ageing, eyelid surgery is performed to improve appearance and to address the signs of ageing. Blepharoplasty might be right for you if
- You have sagging or loose skin that changes the contour of the upper eyelid or interferes with vision
- You have bags under your eyes
- Fatty deposits in your upper eyelids make them look puffy
- You have droopy lower eyelids that expose the whites of your eyes
- You have fine lines and excess skin around your lower eyelids
Eyelid surgery is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures. It can be performed on its own or in conjunction with other procedures such as a facelift.
Working closely with a cosmetic surgeon is the only way to determine if blepharoplasty is the right procedure for your needs. All surgeries carry risks and your risk profile needs to be evaluated based on your personal circumstances.
Some considerations to keep in mind before you commit to cosmetic procedures are
- If dark circles, crows feet or drooping eyebrows are bothering you, a blepharoplasty will not be able to take them away. Rather speak to your cosmetic surgeon about alternatives
- If you want to have surgery on your upper and lower lids, you will have two separate procedures so you should be prepared for this
- You won’t be able to have blepharoplasty if you are a smoker because it interferes with the body’s healing ability. You need to quit first.
Furthermore, if you are allergic to the anaesthetic, have bleeding tendencies, poor healing ability or have other risk factors that compromise your fitness for surgery, you should look for alternatives.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Done?
Eyelid surgery usually takes around 90 minutes to complete. Upper eyelid surgery is usually done under local anaesthetic while surgery on the lower eyelids is done under general anaesthetic.
An Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty
If you are having an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, your surgeon will make an incision on the natural crease of your eyelid. Any excess skin or fat will be removed through the incision.
A Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty
If you are having a lower eyelid blepharoplasty, an incision will be made just below your eyelashes, on the rim of the lid. The incision will be used to remove excess skin and fat or redistribute excess fat more evenly. Tightening the eyelid may prevent it from sagging in the future.
Any incisions that are made are small and fine, and a skilled surgeon will try to disguise them along the natural folds and creases of the eye.
What To Expect After The Procedure?
It’s a good idea to be prepared at home after having cosmetic procedures as it makes your rest and recovery so much easier.
After your surgery, you can expect bruising, swelling and discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off. You may also notice some bruising on the whites of your eyes. Using a cold compress regularly can help to minimise swelling and bruising post-surgery. Your eyes will be sensitive to light, and they might feel dry, wet or irritated.
Make sure you follow your cosmetic surgeon’s recovery tips and avoid strenuous exercise for the first week. You will also be told not to bend down during this period.
Do not touch or rub your eyes and make sure you use any medication your cosmetic surgeon has prescribed.
Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to keep your eyes clean and to use lubricating drops.
If you wear contact lenses, you won’t be able to wear them for at least two weeks after your surgery.
Keep your face out of the sun and avoid alcohol for a few weeks. The sun can cause your scars to darken and can irritate your eyes. Alcohol can cause more swelling and slow down your body’s healing response.
You will also need to avoid wearing make-up for a few weeks while you recover.
How Long Will The Results Of Your Blepharoplasty Last?
The results of eyelid surgery can last for five to ten years, and in some cases may be permanent.
How Is Eyelid Surgery Done To Avoid Scarring?
A skilful surgeon will make small, strategic incisions that follow the natural contours of the eye. If you are prone to scarring, discuss this with your cosmetic surgeon ahead of your procedure, and find out what you can expect in terms of incisions and scars. In most cases, the scars will fade naturally with time, as long as you keep your face out of the sun. It can take up to a year for the scars to fade fully.
To find out more about ‘how is eyelid surgery done’ or to enquire about any of our other cosmetic procedures, please contact us for a confidential appointment: (02) 8599 7161.
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