As one increases in age, you will experience changes in almost all aspects of your body. Changes around your eyes are one of them. A growing age causes the formation of fat or excess skin around the eyes that may lead to droopy eyelids.
Blepharoplasty is a procedure done to correct the defects, deformities, and disfigurations of eyelids. This procedure in layman language is also known as eyelift surgery. Blepharoplasty surgery involves removing the excess skin or fat around the eyelids and giving them an appearance like they have been lifted.
Blepharoplasty is helpful in more than one way. Excessive droopy eyelids not only make you look older but also affect your vision. Going through this surgery can solve both these problems. Blepharoplasty can be done on both upper and lower eyelids – only the approach and incisions taken are different.
Through this article, we will learn in detail about blepharoplasty. This may prove to be helpful for you to decide if this eyelid surgery is right for you.
Why is Blepharoplasty done?
As discussed above, excessive fat surrounding your eyelids gives you a much older appearance, thereby affecting your field of vision.
Blepharoplasty for the upper eyelid will not only give you a much younger and more alert look but will also improve your field of vision. Blepharoplasty for the lower eyelid can be performed alongside other procedures like face-lift or brow-lift surgeries; to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Risks of Blepharoplasty/Eyelid surgery
As with any other surgical procedure, this surgery also involves a few risks.
It is very important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about the potential risks before agreeing to and going through the surgical procedure.
Some common risks of blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery are –
- Dry eyes
- Irritation and pain to the eyes
- Infection
- Post-surgical bleeding
- Inability or difficulty to close eyes
- Double vision, blurred vision or vision loss
- Injury to the muscles of the eye
Most of these are temporary and not very serious. However, your doctor must know your past medical and surgical history to avoid further issues. Discuss all these risks with your doctor before going for blepharoplasty to know which risks may apply to you or prove to be severe for you.
Blepharoplasty: Before and After!
Now that we’ve covered why you may need eyelid surgery and the risks you can expect before going through it — let’s talk about the procedure in detail.
Before Surgery:
Before going for blepharoplasty, consult with both an ophthalmologist and a plastic surgeon. Make sure to inform them about all your past medical and surgical records.
After your consultation, the doctor will perform a thorough physical, visual and eyelid examination.
Make sure to follow all the instructions given by your doctor about any medications you are on and any lifestyle changes before the surgery.
Blepharoplasty is usually performed in a daycare setting under local anaesthesia. However, this may differ depending on your doctor.
After Surgery:
After the blepharoplasty, you may experience some problems like pain, discomfort, irritation and vision problems. These usually subside on their own. You must maintain proper hygiene around your surgical site and avoid frequent touching or rubbing your eyes.
Use ice packs for the swelling and pain; the doctor may also prescribe medications to relieve your pain. Do not take any medicines without your doctor’s advice. The scar tissue takes about two weeks to heal after the blepharoplasty surgery. However, it may take months to fade away.
Have regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist following the blepharoplasty.
Is Blepharoplasty right for you?
A blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure for anyone who,
- Has vision problems because of the excessive sagging of eyelids
- Wants to correct the sagging for cosmetic reasons
- Wants to achieve a younger and avoid sleepy look
Other than the above causes, anyone who is free of comorbidities, does not have any addictions and has never had any allergic reaction to any medication or surgical procedure is a good candidate for blepharoplasty.
Why Choose Centre for Sight?
Centre for Sight is the largest chain of hospitals or clinics for eye care. The team at Centre for Sight always aims at providing you with the best eye care possible.
At the Centre for Sight, we have a specialized and qualified team of doctors and healthcare professionals who will guide you from your first consultation right through your treatment.
Article: Blepharoplasty: A Sure-Shot Way to Remove A Tell-tale Sign of Ageing
Author: CFS Editorial Team | Jun 23 2021 | UPDATED 12:00 IST
*The views expressed here are solely those of the author in his private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of Centre for Sight.
