Eyelid Surgery – Blepharoplasty

EYELID LIFT (BLEPHAROPLASTY)

The eyes are one of the first features people notice about us and play a significant role in expressing our emotions and feelings. However, with age, stress, and other environmental factors, our eyelid skin can lose elasticity, develop wrinkles, or exhibit puffiness, making us look tired, older, or even affecting vision. Eyelid Lift Surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, can help alleviate these concerns, giving individuals a refreshed appearance.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to alter the appearance of the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both. The primary goal of this surgery is to remove excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat that may be causing skin ptosis (excess, loose skin) or bags under the eyes. Whether you’re looking to alter the appearance of your eyes or alleviate functional issue, blepharoplasty may help change the area surrounding your eyes not only aesthetically, but functionally as well.

Download Dr Watts’ Ultimate Guide to Blepharoplasty

Ultimate Guide To Blepharoplasty

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Who Is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that can change the appearance of the eyes and increase the field of vision for some. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for this surgery. Determining suitability involves a several physical factors, health conditions, and personal motivations. Here’s a breakdown of what can makes someone a good candidate for Blepharoplasty:

Physical Indications:

• Skin Ptosis: One of the primary reasons individuals seek Blepharoplasty is due to excess skin on the upper eyelids that droops, sometimes even obstructing vision
• Under-Eye Bags: Puffiness or bags under the eyes, often a result of fat accumulation, can make a person appear tired or aged
• Wrinkles: Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, especially on the lower eyelids, can be alleviated with this procedure

Overall Health: A good candidate should be in general good health. This means:

• No Serious Eye Conditions: Conditions like glaucoma, dry eye, or a detached retina can complicate the procedure. It’s essential to have a thorough eye examination before considering surgery
• Non-Smokers: Smoking can interfere with the healing process, so non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after the surgery are better candidates
• No Serious Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses or conditions that can affect healing might rule out surgery or require additional precautions

Realistic Expectations: It’s crucial for candidates to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. While Blepharoplasty can significantly alter one’s appearance and, in some cases, increase the field of vision, it won’t fundamentally change your facial structure or make you look like a completely different person. A thorough discussion with Dr. Watts can help set achievable goals.

Motivation: The decision to undergo blepharoplasty should be a personal one, made without external pressures. Whether the motivation is cosmetic alteration, functional changes, or both, the candidate should feel confident in their choice.

Age Considerations: While there’s no specific age limit for Blepharoplasty, most candidates are typically in their 30s or older when signs of ageing become more pronounced. However, in some cases, younger individuals might opt for the procedure due to hereditary factors that cause eyelid ptosis or under-eye concerns at a younger age.

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WHAT CAN A BLEPHAROPLASTY DO FOR ME?

• Remove excess and loose skin from around the eyes
• Reduce puffiness
• Alleviate the appearance of excess skin (bags) on the lower lid
• Increase field of vision by removal of excess eyelid skin
• Alter ‘hooding’ on the upper lid
• Increase symmetry of the lids
• Alleviate the appeance of loose lower lid skin that exposes the white of the lower eye
• Refresh the appearance of the eyes and face

In addition to the surgical procedure, non-surgical techniques such as chemical peels, and injectables may assist Dr Watts in achieving your desired end result. These can include a reduction of fine lines and deep wrinkles. Dr Watts will discuss with which techniques and processes will most likely achieve your desired results. His Perth-based practice is always happy to receive enquiries and field your questions.

BLEPHAROPLASTY PROCEDURE AND RECOVERY PERIOD

How Is the Surgery Performed?

Blepharoplasty is a delicate procedure that requires precision, experience, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. The specific techniques and approaches can vary based on the patient’s needs, Dr Watts’ preferences, and whether the surgery is being performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

1. Pre-Surgical Preparation: Before the surgery, Dr. Watts will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s eyes and the surrounding area. This includes assessing the amount of excess skin, the distribution of fat and the general health of the eyes. The patient might also undergo vision tests and tear production tests. Photographs may be taken for before-and-after comparisons. It’s essential for patients to disclose their full medical history, including any medications or supplements they are taking, as some can interfere with the surgery or recovery.
2. Anaesthesia: Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and the surgeon’s preference. Local anaesthesia numbs the eyelid area, so the patient feels no pain during the operation. If sedation or general anaesthesia is used, the patient will be asleep or in a deep state of relaxation.
3. Incisions: For upper eyelid surgery, the incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid. This ensures that the resultant scar is well-hidden. For the lower eyelid, the incision can be made just below the lash line or inside the eyelid, known as a transconjunctival incision. The choice of incision depends on the specific goals of the surgery, such as removing excess skin or repositioning fat.
4. Reshaping and Removal: Once the incision is made, Dr. Watts will remove or reposition excess fat deposits, tighten muscles and remove excess skin. In some cases, fat may be redistributed.
5. Closing the Incisions: After the necessary adjustments have been made, the incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape. The sutures might be absorbable, or they might need removal after a few days.

Recovery after Surgery

The recovery process after Blepharoplasty is as crucial as the surgery itself. Proper care and adherence to post-operative instructions can significantly influence the final outcome and the speed of recovery.

• Immediate Post-Operative Period: After the surgery, patients might experience some degree of swelling, bruising, irritation, or dryness in the eyes.
  • Cold compresses can help reduce swelling, and ointment can alleviate dryness or irritation.
  • It’s not uncommon for the eyes to feel tight or sore as the anaesthesia wears off, but pain medication can manage this discomfort.
• First Week of Recovery: During the first week, patients should keep their heads elevated, even while sleeping, to reduce swelling. Activities should be limited, and strenuous exercises, bending, or lifting should be avoided.
  • It’s also essential to protect the eyes from direct sunlight and wind by wearing sunglasses.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Patients will have scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
  • If non-absorbable sutures were used, they would be removed within a week.
  • Dr. Watts will provide guidance on when you can to resume regular activities and return to work.
• Long-Term Recovery: While the majority of swelling and bruising will subside within a couple of weeks, it might take several months for the final results to become apparent.
  • Scars from the incisions will fade over time however they will never fully disappear.
  • It’s crucial for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle, protect their eyes from the sun, and follow any specific instructions from Dr. Guy Watts.

Risks of Blepharoplasty Surgery

Plastic surgery comes with inherent risks. It’s crucial for patients to be aware of potential complications and make informed decisions. Anaesthesia is used in most surgical procedures for patient comfort and safety. However, in rare cases, it can lead to complications such as allergic reactions, lung infections, stroke, and even heart complications.

Also, keep in mind that all surgeries result in some form of scarring. While Dr. Watts often uses techniques to reduce and strategically place these scars, some patients might experience hypertrophic or keloid scarring, which is raised and more prominent. It’s essential for anyone considering plastic surgery to thoroughly research and understand these risks. Read more about risks and potential complications of plastic surgery.

FAQs about Eyelid Surgery

Next Steps on Your Plastic Surgery Journey 

PLEASE TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.