Encyclopedia - Blepharoplasty

What is blepharoplasty?
How is a blepharoplasty performed?
What are the risks and complications of blepharoplasty?

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is cosmetic surgery that removes wrinkled, droopy skin from the upper eyelids and bags below the eyes. The operation usually is done under local anesthesia and is completed in about 90 minutes. Most patients go home the same day.

Although some appearance problems may be hereditary, most are due to age. As a person grows older, the skin can lose elasticity, resulting in a creased, droopy appearance. Psychological outlook can also influence appearance, as grief or worry accelerates the aging process.

How is a blepharoplasty procedure performed?

The operation is done by making incisions in the fold of the lid and just below the lower line of the lash. Excess tissue is removed, and the incisions are stitched carefully so that any scar runs in a natural crease line. Ice packs and pads soaked with witch hazel solution are applied to reduce swelling and bruising, both at the medical center immediately after the surgery and during recuperation at home. The swelling usually goes down after three days, but bruises may be visible for up to two weeks. Some stitches are taken out 3 to 5 days after the operation, and the others are removed in 7 or 10 days.

What are the risks and complications of blepharoplasty?

Most complications of blepharoplasty are not long lasting. There may be hematomas, swellings filled with blood, but they do not cause lasting damage. A patient may experience double vision for a few hours after the operation, and some people have excess tearing for a few days. Some patients may not be able to close their eyes completely for several days. If the problem persists, eye drops may be prescribed to reduce irritation. If cysts form along the incision, they can be removed easily. The most serious complication is ectropion, a turning out of the eyelid if too much tissue is removed. It can be corrected by skin grafts.

See Eye Exam Types in Eye Health Center.
See Plastic Surgery in Free Eye Tests.