DR VIVIEN MORIS
Blepharoplasty - Eyelid
Eyelid - Indication
Eyelid surgery is a good option for rejuvenating the appearance of your eyes.
Hospital stay
The patient can go home the same day.
Surgical technique
There are two types of blepharoplasty: upper and lower.
Post-operative care
No dressing is required; threads are taped to the forehead for 1 week.
Time
Around 1 hours under local or general anesthesia
Sports / Daily life
The patient should avoid lifting weights, including children, for one month. Normal sedentary activities can be resumed on the day of the surgery.
What is the difference between an upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty focuses on rejuvenating the upper eyelids by addressing issues such as excess skin, drooping eyelids, and fat deposits that can make the eyes appear tired or heavy. It typically involves making incisions along the natural creases of the upper eyelids to remove or reposition excess tissue.
On the other hand, lower blepharoplasty is designed to address concerns related to the lower eyelids, including under-eye bags, puffiness, and loose skin. This procedure often involves making incisions just below the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival) to access and modify the fat deposits and excess skin. Both upper and lower blepharoplasty aim to create a more youthful and refreshed eye appearance.
Where are the eyelid scars?
While scarring is an inherent part of any surgical procedure, the goal in blepharoplasty is to place incisions strategically to minimize the visibility of scars. Over time, scars tend to fade and become less noticeable, further contributing to the natural and rejuvenated appearance of the eyes.
Can we do the eyelid surgeries under local anesthesia?
Yes, like the facelift procedure can indeed be performed under local anesthesia, eliminating the potential risks associated with general anesthesia. To achieve this, a combination of local anesthetic products is used to provide an extended numbing effect. During the procedure, the patient remains awake, similar to a dental procedure, but they do not experience any pain, ensuring a comfortable and safe surgical experience.
Can I combine the blepharoplasty with other face procedures?
Yes, it's possible and it's a smart decision to combine various types of facial procedures, including eyelid surgery (both upper and lower blepharoplasty), temporal lift, lip lift, buccal fat pad removal, and face fat transfer, to achieve a comprehensive facial rejuvenation tailored to individual goals and needs.
When can I resume sport activities?
It's important for patients to understand that the recovery period can vary, and returning to physical activity should be a gradual process. Typically, light activities, such as walking, can be resumed within a few days post-surgery, aiding circulation and recovery. However, it's crucial to avoid strenuous activities, especially those that involve the chest muscles like weight lifting for at least four to six weeks. This allows the implants to properly settle and the incision sites to heal. High-impact activities, such as running or jumping, should be reintroduced slowly and only after one month after the surgery.
What are the risks of a blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, whether upper or lower, is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. Risks include potential scarring, infection (rare), bleeding (manageable), swelling, and temporary dry eyes. Achieving perfect symmetry can be challenging, and slight asymmetry may occur. Rare complications include changes in vision and scarring abnormalities. Anesthesia risks are associated with general anesthesia. Consultation with a skilled surgeon is crucial to assess individual risks. Diligent pre-operative and post-operative care minimizes these risks for a successful outcome