Eyelid surgery is probably the most common surgery in plastic aesthetic surgery. In the area of the lower eyelid, the fat under the muscle of the eye can be removed. This fat can also be found in the upper eyelid, and if so, may be removed as well. Often the eyelid muscle is corrected, too. The incision on the border of the eye is sutured with a subcuticular suture.
Standard incision for upper and lower blepharoplasty
For simple blepharoplasty on young people a transconjuntival incision is the technique to correct lower eyelid conditions and to redistribute or remove excess fat.
For most people the incision is made as shown in the picture above.
It is an outpatient operation requiring a local anaesthetic. Occasionally, this procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic.
You will have to rest for approximately one week (to reduce bruising). The stitches are removed after 5 to 7 days.
Risks of eyelid surgery
Haemorrhage (bleeding) can increase post-operative swelling and extend the healing process. Sometimes, it is necessary to reopen the wound area to drain the haemorrhage.
Infections are very rare. There is a small risk of developing conjunctivitis, but it can be treated with antibiotics in the form of teardrops.
The scars are mostly invisible. Sometimes they can be seen on the side of the eye.
After the operation, the eyes can remain sensitive for a while, with an excessive production of tears. Alternatively, if a patient experiences dry eyes, artificial tears can be used.
Occasionally an ectropion may appear (rolling of the eyelid outwards) for a period of time, which is caused by a cicatricial retraction and weakness of the orbicular muscle in the lower eyelid. Massage can improve this situation. In some cases, another operation may be required.
Rarely a cecity (blindness) can occur due to a haemorrhage or to a lesion of the cornea or to an intrabulbar injection.
