Blepharoplasty, also known as aesthetic eyelid surgery, is the procedure of removing excess fat and skin from the upper and lower eyelids. Aesthetic eyelid surgery can eliminate under-eye bags, sagging eyelids, and wrinkles. If there is a condition obstructing vision, reconstructive blepharoplasty can also be performed. Blepharoplasty performed in conjunction with a brow lift yields much more positive results.
Surgical Method
The first step for those considering blepharoplasty is to consult a plastic surgeon. It is essential to share all expectations regarding the post-operative period with plastic surgeons, focusing on correction rather than perfection.
One of the most important points to determine is emotional balance and stability. Blepharoplasty helps you renew your self-confidence by improving your appearance, but the rest is up to you. After the examination, physical and medical factors are evaluated, and all variables that may affect the decision for surgical intervention are discussed. In younger individuals, aesthetic eyelid surgery is performed solely to remove fat tissue under the eyelids. In older age, if there is excess skin, it may also need to be removed. Drooping eyebrows and temples can negatively affect the outcome of blepharoplasty procedures. In such cases, procedures like eyebrow lifts and temporal lifts are recommended. Problems related to vision and tear production should be identified before surgical intervention. These types of problems should be treated by an ophthalmologist before surgery. During the initial consultation, your aesthetic surgeon will explain all specific details, from the surgical technique to pre- and post-operative care. Risks and costs associated with blepharoplasty should also be discussed prior to the procedure.
Although hundreds of aesthetic eyelid surgeries are successfully performed every year, you should still be informed about potential risks and specific complications. Risks such as hematoma or infection are rare. To minimize such risks, it is sufficient to follow your doctor’s recommendations during the recovery period. Additional methods may be required to correct muscles or remove under-eye bags, and sometimes all these interventions can be performed within a single operation.
With blepharoplasty applied first to the upper and then to the lower eyelid, excess fat masses in both areas are removed. The upper and lower incisions are made to follow natural lines and often extend into the wrinkles at the outer corner of the eye. The number and type of stitches used to close the incisions are at your surgeon’s discretion. Scars become barely noticeable 6-8 months after the surgery. The operation, which lasts 1-2 hours depending on the scope of the intervention, can sometimes be longer.
Post-operative Recovery
After the surgery, there may be sensitivity and some discomfort, and pain relievers can be used if pain is felt. Applying cold compresses to your eyes and sleeping with your head elevated will reduce bruising and swelling. If there is a dressing, it will be removed the next day, and you will be advised to perform eye baths and use eye drops for a few days. Patients with thin eyelid skin often experience rapid swelling and bruising after surgery, but this swelling and bruising will subside by the end of the first week. Makeup can be applied to conceal discoloration after the first week. After surgery, light sensitivity and increased tear secretion may occur.
The removal of excess skin and fat around the eyes provides a more refreshed and youthful appearance. Aesthetic eyelid surgery reduces the effect of wrinkles on the eyelid and outer corners, but their complete disappearance should not be expected.
Even if you are up and about the day after surgery, your aesthetic surgeon will inform you about what to pay attention to in the later days of the recovery process. For proper healing, you should follow your doctor’s recommended program and avoid strenuous activity for 2-3 weeks. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear tinted glasses for 3-4 weeks to prevent irritation from sunlight and wind. Your return to work depends on how quickly you heal and how you feel.
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