Surgery around the eyelids is a very common practical and aesthetic procedure that can be completed with ease by skilled practitioners. Specialists in facial rejuvenation surgery offer Blepharoplasty to focus on contours in the space around the upper and lower eyelid. Deep contours resulting from excess skin and fat can create the impression of advanced ageing and even inhibit full vision. Here we discuss what’s involved in Blepharoplasty surgery, why you might want to have the procedure, and what you need to know regarding recovery.
What is Blepharoplasty surgery?
Eyelid surgery, also known as Blepharoplasty surgery, is a procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the area surrounding the eyes. It is intended to alter the appearance of bags under the eyes, drooping eyelids, and heavily hooded eyes. Although it can also be recommended as a way to improve someone’s field of vision that has been impaired by excess skin.
What’s involved in the Blepharoplasty procedure?
Blepharoplasties are performed under either a local anaesthetic to numb the skin or general anaesthetic, where the patient is asleep. Once the surgeon is satisfied the procedure is appropriate, the surgery can begin. It follows these steps:
- A small incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid (either in the upper or lower eyelid as required).
- Excess fat or skin tissue is removed and/or repositioned from the affected area.
- Actions may need to be taken to support the structures of the eyelid after the tissue has been removed.
- Once the surgeon is satisfied with the appearance and strength of the eyelid, the incision will be closed.
The entire surgical procedure should take between 45 minutes and 2.5 hours. Suture strips are usually applied after the surgery to provide support to the eyelid, although these can often be removed after a week.
When is Blepharoplasty surgery needed?
As we age, skin can start to sag in various locations across the body. Sagging skin around the eyes can also occur due to other factors. Whatever the cause, this condition risks obscuring vision to the upper and outer regions of the typical field of view. A Blepharoplasty seeks to remove this obstruction, making eyes look more youthful in the process. This procedure can be completed alongside other facial cosmetic surgeries, such as a brow lift, facelift, or anti wrinkle treatments.
If you’re unsure about any of the cosmetic enhance surgeries we offer, simply request a consultation with a member of our expert team.
When you choose to move forward with Blepharoplasty surgery, a medical professional will schedule an initial consultation to assess your suitability for the procedure. The clinician may then take various pictures of the eye at different angles to help them with surgical planning, as well as serving to document the procedure.
Recovery for eyelid surgery
It is recommended that patients take around two weeks off from work and other activities as this is roughly the average recovery time, although it could be more depending on nature of the job. Patients should be aware that although they can return home the same day of the surgery, they should not drive for a number of days thereafter. You may also experience redness and swelling for a few weeks, as well as visible scarring for a few months.
Your surgeon may provide advice to help with the recovery process. This must be followed to help minimise the amount of time spent in recovery. You might be asked to:
- Clean the eyelids with prescribed ointment or use prescribed eyedrops.
- Elevate the head when resting to help reduce swelling.
- Apply a cold pack or other cold item wrapped in a towel to the affected area to reduce swelling.
- Take pain relief such as paracetamol following the surgery.
- Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from harsh light and wind.
It’s also common for clinicians to recommend patients avoid strenuous activities (especially swimming), smoking, and wearing contact lenses. Any action that may cause irritation to the eyes should also be avoided.
Potential side effects of eyelid surgery
Those that have had eyelid surgery may experience the following temporarily:
- Numbness around the eyes.
- Bruising.
- Eyes that are puffy and difficult to close.
- Irritation or watery eyes.
Cosmetic surgery experts in Newcastle
LASE Cosmetic are thrilled to offer a wide range of facial cosmetic treatments, including Blepharoplasty, facelifting, nose reshaping surgery, and much more. At consultation, one of our expert surgeons will discuss any concerns you may have and help create a personalised treatment plan. Contact us if you have any questions at all.
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