A DETAILED OVERVIEW OF UPPER BLEPHAROPLASTY PROCEDURE

Blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as eye lift surgery, can restore harmony and give a refreshed, youthful appearance. The aim of the procedure is to remove excess skin, reduce all herniated (protruding underlying fat causing puffiness of the eyelids) tissues to their rightful place and tighten the skin and appearance of the eyelids. Addressing the upper or lower eyelids may be vital in achieving a long-lasting, reliable outcome.

UPPER BLEPHAROPLASTY

Upper blepharoplasty is one of the oldest and most common reconstructive and appearance-related procedures performed throughout the world. However, its simplicity is often mistaken as surgeons underestimate this detail-orientated, complication-prone procedure as quick and easy. When choosing your surgeon, you must ensure that they possess the proper knowledge, training and understanding of the operation and its potential outcomes.

WHY UNDERGO UPPER BLEPHAROPLASTY?

Upper blepharoplasty can be done for both functional and appearance-related reasons. In terms of appearance, individuals may not be happy with their droopy eyelids. Droopy eyelids can be the result of excess tissue weighing down on the lids and lashes, or by the attenuation of eyelid – and brow – muscles.

Functional correction of baggy eyes is more complicated functionally, aesthetically and often financially. Lid deformity, lid asymmetry and eyelid ptosis are the common reasons for undergoing this corrective operation.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

After the surgery, the eyes should be covered with cold compresses for the first few days to reduce the swelling. Patients should sleep at 45º head elevation post operatively. This helps diminish swelling, which can be significant for the first few weeks. Compressive bandages can also be applied overnight to minimise excessive swelling and haematoma, and speed up the recovery process.

Patients should avoid any vigorous activity for several weeks, with no sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This will minimise the risk of postoperative bleeding.

Pain is usually minimal, and well tolerated with paracetamol.

The patient should avoid rubbing the eyes, so the fine sutures are not loosened or broken within the early stage. The sutures are usually removed within 5 – 7 days.

During the first week or two, ophthalmic ointment should be applied, particularly at night, since most patients are unable to close the lid fully due to early tightness on the lid as well as swelling.

COMPLICATIONS

• Haematoma
• Subconjunctival haemorrhage (collection of blood under the conjunctiva)
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva from the sutures, blood clots, pieces of tissue, corneal abrasion or infection)
• Abnormal tearing
• Lagophthalmos (where eyelid cannot close properly)
• Profound drop of brows and accentuation of corrugator frown
• Asymmetry
• Lid ptosis