Definition

Blepharoplasty is a procedure to lift the eyelids and/or remove excess skin and fat tissue from the eye area.

Eye

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Reasons for Procedure

Blepharoplasty can correct:

    
  • Drooping upper eyelids
  • Puffy bags below the eyes

    • Possible Complications

    Complications are rare but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have blepharoplasty, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

        
  • Temporary blurred vision
  • Temporary swelling and bruising of the eyelids
  • Asymmetry in healing
  • Scarring
  • Difficulty closing eyes
  • Dry eyes
  • Decreased or loss of vision
  • Reaction to anesthesia
  • Infection
  • Bleeding

    • Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

        
  • Thyroid problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Poor circulation
  • Diabetes
  • Glaucoma

    • What to Expect

    Prior to Procedure

    Your doctor will likely do the following:

        
  • Physical exam
  • Vision tests

    • Leading up to your procedure, your doctor may recommend that you:

        
  • Follow a special diet.
  • Take certain medications.
  • Arrange to have someone drive you to and from the procedure, as well as for help when you arrive home.

    • Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure like:

        
  • Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Blood thinners, such as clopidogrel (Plavix) or warfarin (Coumadin)

    • Anesthesia

    You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around your eyes. Sedatives will be given to help you relax. In some cases, general anesthesia will be used. In this case you will be asleep.

    Description of the Procedure

    Your surgeon will make incisions in your eyelids. In the upper eyelid, the incision is usually made in the crease. In the lower eyelid, the incision is usually made either just below the lashes or on the inside of the eyelid. The excess fat will be removed. The excess skin and muscle will be trimmed. The incision will be closed with sutures.

    How Long Will It Take?

    About 30 minutes to three hours

    Will It Hurt?

    Anesthesia will block pain during the procedure. You may feel some tightness and soreness after the procedure.

    Post-procedure Care

    At the Care Center

    Your doctor will apply ointment. A bandage may be applied over your eyes.

    At Home

    When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

        
  • You will receive instructions about restricting your activity. You may also be advised to avoid alcohol and certain medications.
  • Your doctor will likely recommend that you keep your head elevated for several days.
  • You can use cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising.
  • Your doctor will show you how to clean your eyes and may recommend using ointment.
  • You will be able to read and watch television after the procedure.
  • You will not be able to wear contact lenses or participate in strenuous activity until cleared by your surgeon.
  • Your stitches will likely be removed anytime from five to seven days after surgery.
  • Since you may be sensitive to sunlight, wind, and other irritants, your surgeon may recommend sunglasses and a special sun block for your eyelids when you go out.

    • Your scars will most likely fade to a nearly invisible white line after about six months. The results of a blepharoplasty are permanent. Your surgeon may still be able to do extra surgery as indicated or desired.

    Call Your Doctor

    After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

        
  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, bleeding or discharge from the incision site
  • Opening of any part of the incision
  • Excessive pain or redness of the eye
  • Any decrease or change in your vision
  • Any other problem or concern

    • In case of an emergency call 911.