1 / 1 Page
  1. 1

Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty

In-Depth Review of Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a form of surgery carried out with the aim of restoring youthful looks to one's eyes by removing surplus skin, fat, and muscle. It is performed either on the upper eyelid, the lower eyelid, or at times both. This surgical operation is in great demand because many want to feel younger, their line of vision improved, and their face more appealing in general. We'll be discussing in detail upper and lower eyelid surgery, its benefits, the procedure involved in it, the recovery, and more.

What is Eyelid Surgery?


Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure to lift drooping eyelids and the so-called 'bags' under the eyes that come with age, genes, or anything for that matter. It removes excess skin, fat, and muscle in order to give one a more alert, youthful look. While surgery may be related more to cosmetic reasons, there are also functional benefits attached, especially when droopy eyelids interfere with vision.

Types of Eyelid Surgery


Based on the area to which the treatment needs to be provided, there can be two broad types of eyelid surgeries.

Upper Eyelid Surgery


Upper eyelid surgery generally deals with loose skin and fat of the upper eyelids. Usually, this is performed to deal with droopy eyelids that interfere with your vision and make the eye appear tired. It may also be used to enhance the natural shape of the eyelids.

Lower Eyelid Surgery


The lower eyelid surgery focuses on the bags and puffiness which can fall under the eyes. It may involve skin and excess fat removal or fat repositioning to smoothen the look. Lower blepharoplasty treats dark circles, fine lines, and sagging skin, after which the result is a fresh look.

Benefits of Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery


There are several advantages which are associated with both the upper and lower eyelid surgeries, including:

Aesthetic Improvement: Blepharoplasty cosmetically removes the extra skin and fat, hence leaving one with a more youthful and fresh look. Improved Vision: Surgery may improve peripheral vision for individuals whose droopy upper eyelids get in the way of their line of sight. Increased Confidence: Most of the patients have increased self-confidence following their surgery and, therefore, feel better about their appearance.
Minimal Scarring: The surgical cuts are commonly hidden within the natural creases of the eyelids, thereby minimizing scar visibility.

About the Eyelid Surgery Procedure


Eyelid surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, allowing the patient to return home on the same day. In general, the procedure includes the following steps:
Anesthesia: Based upon the complexity of the surgery as well as patient preference, a variety of anesthesia options can be used, including local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Incisions: The incisions for the upper eyelid are made in the natural fold of the eyelid. For the lower eyelids, the surgeons may perform it just beneath the lower lash line or inside the eyelid itself to reduce the scarring.

Tissue excision/repositioning: Extra skin, fat, and muscle are taken out or readjusted to give a more even and youthful appearance.

Closure: Following this, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures that either dissolve or need to be removed in a few days.

The length of this surgery generally ranges between one and three hours, depending on whether both the upper and lower eyelids will be treated.

Recovery and Aftercare


Recovery after blepharoplasty is generally straightforward and uncomplicated; most patients experience minimal pain. Some key issues to be aware of in the postoperative period include:

Swelling and Bruising: This always occurs to a degree and typically settles within one to two weeks.

Cold Compresses: Cold compresses are used to reduce the swelling, which also will help to reduce some discomfort during the first days post-surgery.
Suture Removal: The non-absorbable sutures are removed within five to seven days following the surgery.
Activity Restriction: Patients should desist from activities that involve heavy lifting or tiring exercises for at least two weeks, so that proper healing may take place.
Generally, most people can get back to their normal activities within a week or two but it may take several months for the swelling to subside fully and for them to see the real final result of the operation.

Possible Risks and Complications


Eyelid surgery is generally a safe procedure, but as with any other surgery, risks exist. These could include the following conditions or complications:

Infection or Hemorrhage: Both can be infrequent but may well occur and at times need further intervention.

Dry or Irritated Eyes: Some patients may have temporary dryness or irritation after the surgery.

Scarring: Though the incisions are made in the most discreet areas possible, for some patients, possible scarring can manifest.
Asymmetry: The result of surgery might turn out to be asymmetric and hence may call for another corrective surgical procedure.
A very good and experienced surgeon is likely to reduce risks while increasing the rate of success.

Results and Longevity


The results from blepharoplasty, both upper and lower eyelid, usually last well and will often improve for ten to fifteen years. Natural ageing will of course continue, and the eyelids may change over time. A healthy lifestyle, protection from sun exposure, and a good skincare regimen will help maintain the results for longer periods.

Choosing the Right Surgeon


Electing the right surgeon is very important to achieve the best results in eyelid surgery. While electing a surgeon, the following should be considered:

Board Certification: He should be board-certified either in plastic surgery or ophthalmic surgery
Experience: Consider that the surgeon has huge experience only in performing eyelid surgeries.
Before-and-After Photos: Viewing a portfolio of the surgeon will give you insight into his skill and the quality of the work he has done.

Consultation: 

Consultation means a chance to discuss your goals, ask questions, and fully understand the procedure.
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a worthy solution for everyone who intends to renovate their appearance and improve their vision. The surgery will eliminate extra skin and fat around the eyes, creating a younger look with an alert appearance that will enhance overall facial aesthetics. In general, recovery times are short with long-lasting results, making eyelid surgery one of the most popular cosmetic enhancement options.

If you are considering eyelid surgery, book an appointment today with a qualified and experienced surgeon to go through options and take an initial course of action for rejuvenation of appearances.