Introduction to Eyelid Reshaping
The eyes are the “window to our soul”. This is the part of the human face that allows us to express our emotions, to make eye-contact and in some cultures to express our personalities. The importance of the eyelid in female aesthetics is reflected by the vast array of cosmetic enhancing products available for beautifying the eyelids.
Unfortunately the eyelid is also the first part of human face that exhibits the process of aging. The loose upper eyelid skin can give rise to a tired, puffy and sad appearance. In extreme cases it can also interfere with the vision. The accumulation of fat in the lower eyelid, “the bags” and the excess loose “creepy” skin can further contribute to a tired and sad appearance.
Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) rejuvenates the eyelids by creating a sharp and crisp upper eyelid crease. For the lower eyelid, the goal is to recreate a youthful eyelid with the appropriate curvature and shape as well as an smooth transition to the cheek area.
Procedure
Whilst in the past, eyelid surgery simply involved removal of fat and excess skin, modern eyelid surgery is concerned with the preservation and redistribution of the fat together with cautious removal of loose skin. In addition, the procedure may also include rejuvenation to other structures of the eyelid as well as those surrounding the eyelids – periorbital rejuvenation.
The technique to be utilized will depend on the distribution of excess fat and skin in the eyelid areas, and the position of the eyebrows. Both upper & lower eyelids can be done simultaneously if required.
In a typical procedure, an incision is made following the natural lines of your eyelids; in the crease of your upper lids, and just below the lashes in the lower lids. Other additional procedures may involve manipulation of the periorbital fat, lower eyelid muscle as well as the tightening and slight elevation of the corner of the eyelid.
If you have a pocket of fat beneath your lower eyelids but don’t need to have any skin removed, we perform a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. A tiny incision is made inside the lower eyelid and fat deposits are removed with fine forceps. No skin is removed, no sutures are required; leaving no visible scar.
Blepharoplasty usually takes 1 – 3 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Hospital Stay
Eyelid surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis.
Anaesthesia
Eyelid surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around your eyes-along with oral or intravenous sedatives.
In some patients, especially when both upper and lower eyelids are being done together, we prefer general anaesthesia.
Recovery
After surgery you will experience bruising and swelling (the amount and duration varies from person to person). You will be advised to rest with your head elevated and to apply cold compresses to minimize swelling.
Although everyone heals at different rate, your recovery may be as follows: The sweling and bruising around the eyes will reach its peak in 2 days and then gradually subside. Initially, you may experience excess tears or dryness, itching or light sensitivity (temporary). Stitches will be removed by the 7th post operative day . You may resume routine non strenous activities within one week. You may resume exercises and wearing contact lenses after several weeks.
Most traces of surgery will disappear after few weeks. However, the skin around the eye must be treated with extra care for several months i.e. wear sunblocks and darkly tinted sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and sun.
Risks
You may have a detailed discussion about this during your personal consultation. Some of the possible complications include – anaesthesia related complications, swelling & bruising (temporary), excessive watering from eyes or dry eyes, asymmetry, eyelid malposition etc.