What is Blepharoplasty?
Ageing is inevitable and one of the first places to show the signs of ageing is around our eyes. As time goes on the eyelids begin to stretch and the muscles supporting them will weaken. This results in the excess skin that droops and folds around the upper eye lid. This appearance can make us look tired and older than we actually are. Along with the aesthetic effects of the excess skin, some people can also experience a deterioration in their peripheral vision and discomfort. Blepharoplasty benefits people who suffer from excess skin, fat and muscle in the upper eye area, this surgery results in a more rejuvenated appearance.
Blepharoplasty can also be performed in conjunction with other procedures for that area, including a brow lift or face lift. Whether more than one surgery is appropriate for you will be determined by your surgeon and your specific needs.
If the eyelid droop effects your visual field, you may be eligible for a rebate from medicare. You will need a report from an optometrist to access this rebate.
It’s important to provide your surgeon with a medical history so that they can properly assess your suitability for this procedure. Your lifestyle and habits will be taken into consideration, such as smoking, alcohol intake and diet. Most of the time a patient will undergo a medical examination which can entail visual field testing and eyelid photography.
A common way to perform Blepharoplasty is via an incision made at the natural fold of the upper eye lid, this means that the scarring is then hidden by the remaining natural fold, leaving a more seamless finish. The incision will remove the excess skin and fat, and is then closed using dissolvable sutures or sutures that are removed by your surgeon a few days later.
Although this surgery will help to achieve a more youthful appearance, it cannot remove crows feet, other wrinkles or dark circles under the eye. It won’t effect the cheeks or lift the eye brows, it purely focuses on the upper eye lid and the excess droopy skin in that area.
So let’s take a look at Blepharoplasty a bit more and how it may benefit you.
You may be suitable for Blepharoplasty if you
- Have excess skin, muscle of fat on the upper eyelid area
- Are finding excess skin is effecting your peripheral vision
- Wish to remove heavy or puffy upper eyelids
- Desire a more youthful and brighter appearance around the eyes
- Lead a healthy lifestyle and are a non-smoker
- Do not have a history of medical conditions that could effect the surgery
- Do not suffer from glaucoma or retinal detachment
The risks of Blepharoplasty (usually temporary) are:
- Infection and/or bleeding
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Eyelid problems that result in difficulty in closing the eyes
- Noticeable scarring and skin discolouration
After undergoing Blepharoplasty you should:
- Take one week off work to rest
- Be aware that bruising may remain for up to 2 weeks
- Be aware that the eyes may feel dry and tight for up to 4 weeks (lubricating eyedrops will help with this)
- Know you may experience sensitivity to light and wind for approximately 4 weeks. Wearing sunglasses will help with this discomfort
- Use lubricating eyedrops or an ointment recommended by your surgeon during your healing
