Eyelid Surgery is a surgical procedure which is used to correct or enhance the appearance of the eyelids. The procedure is often referred to as blepharoplasty by medical professionals. Eyelid surgery can be performed either for cosmetic reasons or for functional reasons as well. Either one eyelid or both the eyelids could be surgically corrected to improve their appearance. Eyelid surgery is not a major surgical procedure and is occasionally combined with other procedures like forehead lift and facelift.
Who is a suitable candidate for an eyelid surgery ?
With the advancing age the skin around the eyes starts developing wrinkles and puffiness. Occasionally the muscles and the skin on the upper eyelids becomes loose and gives a droopy appearance which is also referred to as ‘Ptosis’. Some individuals are born with droopy eyelids and have vision problems, and may require the eyelid surgery at an earlier age, whereas in most of the cases it is usually performed in individuals who are in their fourth to sixth decades.
When is an eyelid surgery not advised ?
An eyelid surgery is not indicated in individuals who are suffering with uncontrolled diabetes and other systemic condition like high blood pressure, heart diseases and thyroid problems as the chances of post-operative complications are higher. Individuals who are chronic smokers are also advised to quit smoking before deciding to go ahead with the procedure. It is also suggested to have realistic expectations from the procedure as it is a cosmetic procedure and cannot change the way your eyes appear naturally.
What happens before an eyelid surgery ?
Once you have considered getting an eyelid surgery it is essential to meet your ophthalmologist or a plastic surgeon who specialises in facial cosmetic procedures. Most of the eye surgeons are trained to perform cosmetic procedures of the eye. Your consultant specialist will conduct a complete general examination along with a detailed medical history and if you are taking some medicines such as aspirin or any clotting agents, antibiotics, thyroid medication as some of these need to be re-evaluated before posting you for an eyelid surgery. The consultant surgeon also might do an examination of your vision and photographs so check your eyelids before and after the surgery. It is always advised to have a detailed discussion about the procedure including its risks, benefits and outcomes before finalising to get the eyelid surgery done.
Is the eyelid surgery performed under the influence of anesthesia ?
Yes, the procedure is most commonly performed under the influence of local anaesthesia and a relaxing agent might be administered to calm you during the procedure. General anaesthesia is used when the eyelid surgery is performed with other procedures like a facelift or a forehead/eyebrow lift procedure.
What happens during an eyelid surgery ?
Eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure. Once the anaesthesia is administered, the surgeon will make an incision along the line of your eyelid to remove the muscle, fat and skin which is giving the baggy appearance or causing drooping of eyelids. Most often the procedure is done for cosmetic reasons to reduce the signs of aging and make you look and feel younger. Occasionally, a functional eyelid surgery or a functional blepharoplasty could be performed to improve your peripheral vision and other vision related issues. The procedure takes about one to three hours depending upon the type and extent of the surgical procedure.
What are the precautions you need to take after an eyelid surgery ?
The eyelid surgery is a minor procedure but since eyes are a sensitive area extra care needs to be taken. If a bandage is placed around the surgical wound, it will have to be removed on doctor’s advice. The doctor might also advise you to do cold compression intermittently for at least 48 hours to aid in healing. The initially recovery takes about two to three days but you might to restrict yourself from any strenuous work for at least three to six weeks. Routine follow-up visits to your consulting doctor are advised to monitor the healing process.
What are the risk and complications associated with an eyelid surgery ?
The complications could be related to the anaesthesia administered such as nausea, bad taste and vomiting could occur. Complications of the procedure as such could be blurred vision, itching and burning sensation and scarring. If any of the complications persist for a longer period as told by your doctor, it is suggested for you to consult your surgeon immediately.
What is the outcome of an eyelid surgery ?
Eyelid surgery is primarily a cosmetic enhancement procedure which is performed in older individuals who are affected with drooping eyelids affecting their facial experience and even vision. Cosmetic surgeries have been performed for over a decade now and have been successful in their long term outcomes. But it is a cosmetic procedure, hence you are advised to have realistic expectations and a better understanding of the risks, benefits and suitability of the procedure for you.
How to find cosmetic surgeons for eyelid surgery ?
Now you can find cosmetic surgeons for eyelid surgery from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple cosmetic surgeons, cost estimates for eyelid surgery from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a cosmetic surgeon for eyelid surgery.
Find and choose a cosmetic surgeon for eyelid surgery on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.