Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of your eyelids. It helps reduce the look of tired eyes from your lower lids and removes drooping skin from your upper lids. While the surgery is typically safe, there are risks involved. Talk with a board-certified ophthalmologist about the risks and benefits of the surgery.

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, refines the area around the eyes by removing or repositioning excess skin, muscle, and fat. Aging naturally decreases skin elasticity, which, combined with gravity, leads to loose or sagging skin on the upper and lower eyelids. This procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, based on individual needs.

While primarily a cosmetic surgery, blepharoplasty can benefit those experiencing vision obstruction due to drooping eyelids. However, it does not address dark circles, crow’s feet, or facial wrinkles. To improve these, additional procedures like laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, or brow lifts may be combined with blepharoplasty.

Ideal Candidates for Blepharoplasty

Healthy adults over 30 years old with realistic expectations and no significant eye conditions are usually good candidates for eyelid surgery. Conditions that may affect candidacy include:

Eye diseases, such as glaucoma, dry eyes, or a detached retina
Thyroid disorders, like Graves’ disease or hypothyroidism
Cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, or diabetes

It’s essential for candidates to have realistic expectations. Blepharoplasty enhances appearance but does not drastically alter facial features. Dr. Haider emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s facial structure and discussing specific goals during a consultation.

Preparing for Eyelid Surgery

Before blepharoplasty, Dr. Furkan Haider may recommend:

A full medical evaluation or lab testing
Quitting smoking to aid healing
Adjusting or stopping certain medications, including aspirin or blood thinners
Avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements to reduce bleeding risks

You will need a friend or family member to drive you home post-surgery and stay with you the first night to ensure a smooth recovery.

The Blepharoplasty Procedure

Dr. Haider performs both upper and lower blepharoplasty, based on patient goals.

Upper Blepharoplasty: An incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid, concealing any scarring. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the incisions are then closed.
Lower Blepharoplasty: An incision is placed just below the lower lash line to remove extra skin. Alternatively, a transconjunctival incision (inside the lower eyelid) can be made to address fat repositioning without visible scarring.

The procedure takes about 45 minutes to one hour for the upper eyelids alone, or approximately two hours for both upper and lower eyelids.

Recovery Process

Following the procedure, a stitch will remain in each upper lid for about a week, while the lower lids may not require stitches if the incision is internal. Common side effects include swelling and bruising, typically subsiding within 10 to 14 days. Dr. Haider advises patients to stay home and limit activities during the initial recovery phase.

During recovery, patients may use cold compresses and prescribed ointments to alleviate swelling and promote healing. Dr. Haider provides detailed post-operative instructions, including:

Eye care guidelines
Medication protocols to reduce infection risks
Specific signs to monitor around the surgical site
Follow-up appointments for optimal healing

Potential Complications

While blepharoplasty is generally safe, like any surgery, it has potential risks. Rare complications include:

Bleeding or infection
Dry eyes
Discoloration or scarring of the eyelids
Difficulty fully closing the eyes
Altered lash line on the lower eyelid
Rare risk of vision loss

Most patients report satisfaction with their results and enjoy the long-lasting benefits of blepharoplasty.

Expected Results and Longevity

The effects of upper eyelid surgery can last from five to seven years, while lower eyelid surgery usually does not need to be repeated. Though the surgery won’t prevent natural aging, its results provide lasting enhancement.

When to Contact Dr. Furkan Haider

While most patients heal well, dry eyes are possible post-surgery, typically subsiding within two weeks. If this or any other concern persists, Dr. Haider recommends contacting his office promptly.

Ideal Age for Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is available to adults over 18, though the best results are typically seen in individuals over 30. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, most patients are over 40.