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Eyelid Surgery: Types, Costs and Recovery

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. This procedure is performed to improve the appearance of the eyes and to address issues such as drooping eyelids, puffiness, and wrinkles. The procedure has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more people seek to improve their appearance and boost their self-confidence. This essay will provide an overview of everything you need to know about blepharoplasty, including the different types of eyelid surgery, the procedure itself, the recovery process, and the risks and benefits associated with the surgery. The goal of this essay is to provide readers with accurate and comprehensive information about blepharoplasty, so that they can make an informed decision about whether or not to pursue the procedure. See how popular eyelid surgery is and other plastic surgery statistics.

What Happens During Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that the patient can go home the same day. The procedure can be done under local anesthesia, with oral sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the patient preference and the extent of the surgery.

During the surgery, the surgeon will make small incisions in the natural creases of the upper eyelids or along the lash lines of the lower eyelids. Through these incisions, the surgeon will remove excess skin and fat, and may also reposition the underlying muscle and tissue to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance. In the lower eyelids, the surgeon might also need to remove any fatty deposits that are giving the puffiness appearance. Find a oculoplastic surgeon near me

The procedure usually takes around 1-2 hours to complete, but it can take longer depending on the extent of the surgery. The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical adhesive, and the patient will be given detailed instructions for aftercare to aid recovery and prevent complications

The result will be subtle and most people won’t be able to tell that you had surgery but, the look should be more youthful and refreshed, the eyes should look less tired and more alert.

Why is Blepharoplasty Used?

Some of the most common conditions that can be treated with blepharoplasty include:

  1. Excess skin on the upper eyelids: As we age, the skin on the upper eyelids can become loose and saggy, which can create a hooded or tired appearance. Blepharoplasty can remove this excess skin to create a more youthful and alert appearance.
  2. Puffy bags under the eyes: As we age, fat deposits can accumulate in the lower eyelids, creating bags or puffiness that can make the eyes look tired or aged. Blepharoplasty can remove these fat deposits to create a smoother and more youthful contour in the lower eyelids.
  3. Drooping lower eyelids: As we age, the skin and muscles of the lower eyelids can become weaker, causing the lower eyelid to droop or sag. This can also be caused by congenital conditions or injury. Blepharoplasty can reposition the muscle and tissue in the lower eyelids to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
  4. Crow’s feet or wrinkles: The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate, which can make it more prone to wrinkles and fine lines. Blepharoplasty can improve wrinkles and fine lines in the eyelid region.

Can everybody undergo the procedure?

Before every cosmetic surgery it is assessed by a licensed plastic surgeon whether the patient is suitable for having a surgery. The overall rules is that one needs to be generally healthy, without serious eye conditions and preferably non – smoking.

Also see: Dermal Fillers Under Eyes: 5 Facts to Know

What needs to be taken into consideration before blepharoplasty?

Besides discussing the goals and the expectations with a doctor, some other things also need to be controlled:

  • The photographs of the face must be taken so that the surgeon can assess the face parameters properly. The face will also be measured.
  • Regular blood tests have to be run soon before the procedure to be sure of one’s good health condition as well as of sufficient blood clotting factors.
  • When it comes to the latter, blood – thinning drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin must be omitted for at least 2 weeks before the eyelid surgery with no exceptions. It increases the risk of a dangerous bleeding.
  • Inform the doctor of any drug and/or food allergies one has so that an allergic reaction is prevented.
  • Find out how much eyelid surgery costs.

What are the side effects of eyelid surgery?

Every medical intervention entails some risks and side effects however it does not mean  that they do have to happen. The potential consequences of blepharoplasty are:

  • an allergic reaction
  • bleeding
  • swelling
  • bruising
  • dryness of the eyes
  • photosensitivity
  • difficulty moving the eyes
  • rolling of the eyelid
  • lid lag
  • infection
  • pain
  • scarring that may lead to blindness.

How long does it take to recover from the eyelid surgery?

The swelling and bruising will increase during the first two days after the treatment. After that, it will start to naturally subside. In most cases, it is comfortable for a patient to go out after 10 – 14 days post surgery. Nevertheless, the full recovery is complete after a few months; that’s also when the final effects are seen.

How to take care of the eyes after blepharoplasty?

Sun protection is imperative. After a surgery the eyes are extremely sensitive – wear high SPF sunglasses to ensure the healing tissue isn’t irritated by the sun rays. Such a prophylaxis also prolongs the effects of the procedure. Furthermore, lubricating ointments/cold compresses/gauze can be continued until not needed anymore.

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