Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty)
The eyes are the most important feature on our face and play an important role in facial expression. Excess skin, wrinkles and eyebags reduce their beauty and give the face a tired and sad look. The normal ageing process results in sagging of the eyelid skin, with wrinkles and folds developing especially in the lower lids and bulging of the underlying fat. Some people seem to have a hereditary predisposition and these effects appear at a younger age.
When can a blepharoplasty be performed?
How is a blepharoplasty performed?
What can I expect after the operation?
When can I resume my normal activities?
What is a blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty removes the excess fat and skin from the upper and lower eyelids, restoring a fresh and more youthful appearance. It cannot remove crow’s feet lines or eradicate dark circles around the eyes (although the latter might improve). Blepharoplasty can be combined with other procedures, such as a browlift or a facelift.
When can a blepharoplasty be performed?
Blepharoplasty is usually performed after the age of 35-40, when sagging becomes more prominent, but if there is a hereditary predisposition surgery might be required at an earlier age.
How is a blepharoplasty performed?
The procedure is performed under either a local or a general anaesthetic and takes about 1 hour. In the upper eyelids the incision is placed within the natural crease approximately 1 cm above the eyelashes. The excess skin and fat are removed and the incision closed with very fine sutures.
In the lower eyelids the incision is placed just below the eyelashes. The excess fat and skin are removed and the incision closed with very fine sutures. Occasionally, in cases with no excess skin, the incision might be placed inside the lower eyelid (transconjuctival blepharoplasty).
What can I expect after the operation?
As already mentioned the procedure can be performed under a local or general anaesthetic and takes about 1 hour. Blepharoplasty is usually performed as a day case, but for patients that are not local to Athens, an overnight stay at the clinic can be arranged.
Immediately after surgery and for the first 24 hours, cool compresses will be applied and you will be asked to keep your head elevated to reduce swelling and bruising. Pain is usually easily manageable with regular painkillers. You will also experience some swelling and bruising that usually subsides in 7-10 days. The sutures are removed in 3-5 days, after which time make-up use can be resumed.
When can I resume my normal activities?
You will be able to watch television and read comfortably after 1-2 days. Contact lenses should be avoided for 1-2 weeks. Physical activity and bending over should be avoided for the first 4-5 days. You should be able to go back to work in 5-10 days, and full recovery to your previous activities is expected in 2 weeks.
Pictures (c) ASPS, ASAPS, AAFPRS, ADAM, Allergan
