Upper blepharoplasty is a procedure to define skin creases or to improve the eyelid appearance by removing excess skin, and muscle, and may include fat. Not only for people with cosmetic concerns regarding the upper eyelid but this procedure is also indicated for those with excess upper eyelid laxity with disturbance of visual fields. Several conditions such as people with dry eyes, proptosis, clotting disorders, and photophobia may need a further assessment before going through the procedure. Preparation may include a detailed history of medical history and medications, smoking cessation, antiplatelet and anticoagulant withdrawal for about 1 week before surgery, and physical examination including eye examination.
Useful Information
Ensure you consider all aspects of a procedure. You can speak to your surgeon about these areas of the surgery in more detail during a consultation.
Length
The procedure typically takes between one to two hours.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is commonly used for intraoperative assessment and faster recovery, although general anesthesia or intravenous sedation may also be used.
Inpatient/Outpatient
This is an outpatient procedure.
Additional Information
Several conditions may apply after the procedure:
- Temporary discomfort
- Swelling or bruising with a feeling of ‘tightness’ in the eyelid area
- Excessive tearing and light sensitivity
- Temporary dryness
- Burning sensation
- Itching
- Infection
- Continuous bleeding
- Dry eyes
- Asymmetry
- Difficulty in closing eyes completely (rarely permanent)
- Lid malposition
- Temporary blurred or double vision to visual loss
- Reoperation
Topical eye ointment is advised to be used twice a day and ice may be applied to the eyelids for the first 24 hours. Stitches may be removed after one week. Patients should sleep with their head up for two nights and may shower the next day. The resolution of swelling may vary up until 2 weeks, however, people can expect to return to work in approximately five to ten days. Use of contact lenses may be resumed after two weeks. Alcohol consumption and strenuous activity should be discontinued until three weeks after the surgery. Anticoagulants and antiplatelets may be resumed by day 2.
Long-term results may last for several years and some patients may have the look permanently. Patients should pay attention to the instructions after surgery for maximum results. Since people will continue to age naturally, sun protection may help to maintain the result.