Blepharoplasty is a surgical modification of the eyelid. Excess tissue such as skin and fat are removed or repositioned and surrounding muscles and tendons may be reinforced. It can be both a functional and cosmetic surgery.
When an advanced amount of upper eyelid skin is present, the skin may protrude over the eylashes and cause a loss of peripheral vision. The outer and upper parts of the visual field are most commonly affected and the condition may cause difficulty with activities such as driving or reading. Alot of patients with chronic eyelid irritations and eye fatigue will also benefit from blepharoplasty surgery.
Blepharoplasty is usually performed through external incisions made along the natural skin lines of the eyelids, such as the creases of the upper lids. The operation typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete. A certain degree of swelling and bruising is normal. Cold compresses, as well as head elevation when lying down, will enhance healing and relieve discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe medication for discomfort. You will be given a tube of ointment to apply to the sutured area twice a day and a little in your eyes at bedtime. You will also be given a post-operative appointment for 1 week in which the sutures will be removed. Final results may appear in 1-2 months.
The anatomy of the eyelids, skin quality, age and the adjacent tissue all affect the cosmetic and functional outcomes.