Cosmetic Surgery of the Eyelids (Blepharoplasty)

As people age, their lower eyelids begin to develop ‘bags', while their upper eyelids start sagging, initially at the outer edges, then all over. This gives them a tired, sad look. Women can disguise this problem more easily than men using cosmetics.

One can also develop cholesterol deposits beneath the skin of the upper and lower eyelids, causing irregular, pigmented skin.

Cosmetic Eye Surgery, or Blepharoplasty, involves a number of procedures to correct sagging or bulging eyelids, as well as other problems, such as cholesterol deposits or skin lesions.

Eye Surgery Procedure

A blepharoplasty can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on the type of procedure being done.

It can be done as a day care procedure under local anesthesia in most cases, but may also be done under sedation or general anaesthesia.

You will be able to go home within a few hours, and may have a dressing for a day or two. Full recovery may take upto a week.

You should avoid any strenuous activity that for the first few days, and sleep with your head raised. You will usually be able to wash your hair after 48 hours.

Complications

The commonest problem during recovery is swelling and bruising, which tends to disappear within a week or two.

Scars may stretch and become prominent.

Infections do occur, although rarely. This is usually treated with medication.

Ectropion , or pulling down of the lower lid may occur, causing tears to spill over. This may necessitate further surgery.

Blindness , though, extremely rare can occur, usually secondary to a large blood clot in the operated area.