Blepharoplasty 101: What to Consider Before Getting An Eyelid Surgery

As people age, their skin naturally loses its elasticity, leading to drooping or ‘ptosis’.  This is particularly noticeable on the face. The elasticity of the skin of the eyelids is typically lost first, which results in an older and more tired look.

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, otherwise known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes drooping skin from the upper eyelids and bulging bags underneath the eyes.  It can also help those with impaired vision owing to loose skin obscuring their view.

Blepharoplasty does not remove fine lines and wrinkles of the forehead, or lift brows. These issues can be addressed with brow lift procedures, skin resurfacing and other cosmetic procedures.

What the Surgeon Does During Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthetic with sedation, depending on the patient’s specific condition and needs. The upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both may be operated on in the one procedure.

Upper eyelid surgery involves an incision being made along the natural crease in the eyelid to remove excess fat and skin, and tighten the muscle. Lower eyelid surgery usually involves making an incision directly under the lower eyelashes, within the lower eyelid to remove excess fat and tighten skin.

How Long Does Blepharoplasty Take?

Eyelid procedures typically take between one and two hours to perform, depending on the degree of the repair required, the surgical method employed and other considerations.

Can Blepharoplasty Be Performed With Other Procedures?

Eyelid surgery can be combined with other cosmetic treatments such as a facelift, neck lift and brow lift safely.

Are There Any Risks Involved in Blepharoplasty?

All surgical treatments include risks and the possibility of complications. Risks and consequences of blepharoplasty include bleeding, trouble shutting the eyelids, double or fuzzy vision, edema and temporary asymmetry. 

To achieve a positive outcome, it is critical – and we cannot emphasise this enough – to consult with an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon to guide you through the process and provide you with a smooth operation.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for This Procedure?

As long as you’re in excellent health and without any eye-related medical issues like chronic dry eye and glaucoma, you’re considered a suitable candidate for blepharoplasty. Most people who opt for this procedure are over 35, although you may have it sooner.

You may have other underlying conditions that would preclude you from the procedure. This is why it’s essential to schedule a consultation should you desire to have eyelid surgery done.

Conclusion

Blepharoplasty is an extremely effective procedure for patients burdened with excess, loose skin of the eyelids. Blepharoplasty can be covered by medicare and private health insurance.

Are you considering upper or lower eyelid surgery? We can help! The Lotus Institute in Southport provides excellent cosmetic, plastic and laser surgery with the help of their experienced specialist Plastic & Reconstructive surgeons and experienced and caring nursing staff. Contact us today!