Blepharoplasty can treat excess skin on the upper eyelids, bags under the lower eyelids, or both. Your eyelids protect your eyes. The plan must therefore consider your sight and eye health as well as your appearance. Symptoms affecting the tear film and the position of your brows matter too.
What can upper and lower eyelid surgery change?
Upper eyelid surgery usually removes a carefully measured amount of skin. Sometimes it also removes fat. Surgery on the lower lids may move or remove fat and treat loose skin. Taking away too much tissue can change the eyelid shape or make it harder to close the eyes. This is why planning should be cautious.
Who may be assessed for eyelid surgery?
Adults with stable concerns about their eyelids may be assessed. Discuss dry eyes, contact lenses, thyroid eye disease and any past eye surgery. Tell the clinician about medicines that affect bleeding. If upper-eyelid skin gets in the way of your sight, a visual-field test may be relevant.
Have an in-person examination and review your medical history before you decide. Discuss the other options and what each can realistically offer. Photos, measurements or scans may help when they add to the clinical plan.
How is blepharoplasty planned?
Your surgeon should check your anatomy, skin quality and any past procedures. They should review your medicines and exposure to smoking or nicotine. They should also check for health issues that could affect the anaesthetic or healing. Agree on the planned change, while preserving function and proportion.
- Choose a qualified surgeon and an appropriately equipped clinical setting.
- Discuss scars, anaesthesia, recovery support and the possibility of revision.
- Follow instructions on medicines, nicotine, food and transport home.
What affects recovery after eyelid surgery?
Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness are common after many cosmetic operations. Temporary changes in feeling are common too. Limits on activity and when you can return to work depend on the extent of surgery. Swelling often fades over time rather than on a fixed day.
Recovery varies from person to person. Follow your written aftercare advice ahead of general timelines. Tell your treating team promptly about new severe pain, trouble breathing, heavy bleeding or fever. Also report any other unexpected symptom.
What are the risks and limits?
Every operation carries risks. The balance depends on the procedure and your health history. It also depends on any operations done together and how long the anaesthetic lasts.
- Bleeding, infection and anaesthetic complications
- Delayed healing, visible or widened scars and changes in sensation
- Asymmetry, contour irregularity or an outcome that differs from expectations
- Blood clots and the possible need for additional treatment or revision
What should you ask at your consultation?
- What outcome is realistic for my anatomy?
- Where will the procedure take place and who provides anaesthesia?
- What will the scar and recovery plan look like?
- How are complications and follow-up managed after I return home?