Overview
Blepharoplasty or Eye lift is a type of cosmetic surgery performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both. Due to ageing, there is collection of excess skin and fat over the eyelids. The loss of elasticity and increased laxity of the skin further contributes to this leading to sagging of eyebrows, drooping of upper eyelids and bagginess under the eyes. Blepharoplasty helps remove the excess skin and fat making the eyes look younger and more alert. It also helps improve the vision problems resulting from drooping of the eyelids.
It can be combined with other surgery such as a facelift to create a greater change to appearance
Who is a good candidate for Eye Lift surgery?
Age is not a factor with regards to eye-lift surgery. However, most candidates are expected to be over 35 years of age. You are considered a good candidate for surgery if you fulfil the following criteria:
- Physically healthy and fit.
- Presence of loose skin over the upper eyelids that hides the natural folds.
- “Tired” looking eyes due to the puffiness of upper eyelids.
- Impaired vision due to drooping of eyelids.
- Under-eye “bags”.
- Non-smoker without co-morbidities.
- No eye-related problems such as glaucoma or dry eyes.
How to Prepare for a Blepharoplasty/Eye-lift surgery.
Dr Aditya shall discuss your past medical history in detail to determine your candidacy for the procedure. The procedure shall be explained to you in detail.
Doctor shall discuss the following:
- Eyelid surgery options.
- Course of treatment.
- Likely outcomes and the potential risks involved.
- Take pictures of the eyes.
Before Surgery:
- Evaluation of general health status.
- Medical examination including tests.
- Physical examination: complete eye exam and visual field testing for any blind spots.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen and Aspirin that may interfere with the healing process.
- Stop smoking and alcohol at least 4 weeks before the surgery.
After Surgery:
- Arrange for the following at home: ice packs, small gauze pads, clean wash cloths and towels, artificial tears (as recommended by the doctor).
- Arrange for help to be driven home from the hospital.
- Plan to stay home and limit activities for a few days after surgery.
How is Blepharoplasty/Eyelift Surgery done?
Anesthesia:
- The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia with IV sedation or under general anesthesia.
Steps of the Procedure:
- The surgeon first works on the upper eyelid by making an incision along the natural fold of the eyelid.
- The excess skin, fat and muscle is then removed.
- The incision is then closed with fine stitches.
- On the lower eyelid, a cut is made along the eye’s natural crease, just below the eyelashes.
- Again, the surgeon removes the excess skin, fat and muscle.
- The incision is then closed with fine stitches.
Time to Operate:
- This depends on the surgeon and individual candidate. However, the average time taken to operate is about 2 hours.
Possible Complications and Risks:
After the surgery, some patients may temporarily have:
- Anesthetic risks
- Double or blurring of vision.
- Watering of eyes
- Numb and puffy eyelids
- Discomfort or pain
- Feeling of tightness/swelling/bruising of the eyelid area
- Dry eyes
- Sensitivity to light
Care after the Procedure
- Avoid contact with direct sunlight by wearing sunglasses for at least 2-3 weeks.
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling/discomfort.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes for a period of 2 weeks post-surgery.
- Avoid strenuous activities for a week – such as lifting heavy weight/jogging etc.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses for up to 2 weeks post-surgery.
