Blepharoplasty---commonly known as eyelid surgery---is a type of cosmetic surgery that you may choose to undergo to correct an undesirable appearance around the eye region. If you are considering this cosmetic surgery, find an experienced and board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Don't hesitate to ask your potential surgeon questions regarding her training, experience and the outcome of previous patients' surgeries. Discuss all the possible risks involved, as well as whether you are a good candidate for eyelid surgery.
Identification
Eyelid surgery is performed for different reasons. Some patients want to remove extra fat or muscle from the area. You may also have the surgery performed due to loose skin that might obstruct your vision by hanging down from your upper eyelid. Eyelid surgery can also correct "droopiness" in your lower eyelid, reduce dark circles and bags under your eyes and reduce a general "puffy" appearance around the eyes. However, eyelid surgery does not treat wrinkles or droopy eyebrows. You may decide to have a separate procedure to treat those conditions.
Surgery Preparation
Your plastic surgeon will help you prepare for your surgery. If you smoke, you'll need to quit; ask your surgeon about how far in advance you'll need to cut out smoking. You'll also need to discuss any current medications you are on, and may need to work in conjunction with your family physician to adjust any medications. You'll also need to cease taking any herbal supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin, as these medications may increase your risk of bleeding. Discuss your complete medical history with your surgeon, including any allergies (especially allergies to medications or latex). You'll also need to arrange to have someone drive you home from surgery and to stay with you for the first night after surgery in case there are complications. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with more-detailed instructions.
Procedure
Before the surgery, you'll be placed under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will then make an incision. Incisions are made so that scars can be naturally concealed within the creases of the eye region. For example, to correct the lower eyelid, your surgeon will likely make an incision below your lash line on the lower eyelid. Through these incisions, your surgeon can remove extra fat and skin tissue. When the surgeon closes the incision, he may use surgical tape and absorbable or removable sutures. When you come out of the anesthesia, if there are no complications, you will be released to recover at home.
Recovery
Your surgeon should provide you with detailed at-home care instructions. Although each patient recovers differently, plan on resting for at least several days. Keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses. Your surgeon may prescribe medications to treat any discomfort, but it's important to not take any aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications. Expect to have swelling and bruising; also, you cannot use makeup for a week. If you have stitches, they'll likely be removed within a week. You may also experience blurry vision and sensitivity to light, so protect your eyes by wearing dark sunglasses.
Considerations
As with any surgery, there are potential risks involved with eyelid surgery. Risks include scarring, bleeding, infection, poor healing, risks from anesthesia, pain, swelling, skin discoloration, dry eyes, blurriness, impaired vision, problems closing your eyes, blood clots, numbness and loss of vision.
