What is upper blepharoplasty?
An upper blepharoplasty is a procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and reduction or redistribution of fat that aims to rejuvenate the eyelid and improve confidence and vision.
It is one of the most common procedures performed in Facial Plastic surgery. As we age the skin looses its elasticity and can present as an extra fold in the upper eyelid that comes close to the eyelashes. The orbital fat can also prolapse further deteriorating the cosmetic appearance. An upper blepharoplasty addresses these issues effectively.
FAQs
What type of anaesthesia is needed?
It is usually performed under local anaesthesia which helps with fast recovery and also minimises risks to the general health. Sedation or general anaesthesia can be provided if needed. This decision can be made during your consultation.
What does this surgery involve?
Precise measurements and markings will be done initially estimating the amount of skin that needs to be removed. After this, local anaesthesia is injected into the eyelid. An incision is then performed through the eyelid skin crease which heals nicely and hidden in the crease. Fat can be removed or repositioned while the muscle that helps the eyelid close is usually preserved to ensure safe blinking but in certain cases it can be debulked. Absorbable and non-absorbable sutures are placed on the edge of the skin. If non-absorbable sutures are used, they are usually removed in one week. Antibiotic ointment is used in the end of the procedure and you will need to use this for 1-2 weeks after surgery.
What is the recovery period?
Blepharoplasty is a day-case procedure and most patients can expect swelling and bruising in the first 2 days that resolves over 1-2 weeks. These recovery symptoms are temporary and soon, it will be almost imperceptible that you had surgery while the eyelid area looks rejuvenated. It is advisable that you have a family member of friend accompany you to get home. You might have a dressing over one eye that helps to reduce swelling. Most patients will be able to return to work after 7-10 days.
Can it be combined with other procedures?
Yes, upper blepharoplasty can be combined with a brow lift to lift or support a droopy eye brow or a ptosis repair to lift a droopy upper eyelid. Our experienced surgeons can provide an individualised assessment to diagnose any coexisting issues and have a wealth of experience in addressing them offering a customised procedure.
Should I take any precautions before the surgery?
It is advisable to withhold aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications for 2 weeks before the surgery if this is deemed safe by your prescribing doctor. Other blood thinning medications and specific herbal supplements should be stopped ideally too for specific time periods and this will be discussed with you during your consultation.
How long do the results of upper blepharoplasty last?
The results of the procedure can last 5-10 years and even more in some patients. Although an upper blepharoplasty can rejuvenate the eyelid appearance, a second blepharoplasty might be needed in the future due to the ongoing ageing process.
What are the risks of an upper blepharoplasty?
While this procedure is generally safe especially if performed by experienced surgeons, there are some risks which generally include:
Scarring: As the incisions are made on the skin crease, they should heal nicely and become invisible but only in few patients a keloid scarring can occur that might need to be addressed in a second stage with an injection or another surgery.
Infection: A rare complication that can be treated with antibiotics.
Bleeding: Small amount of oozing is expected during the first postoperative days. Bleeding behind the eye is a very rare complication that can cause vision loss. A thorough assessment will be performed before you leave the clinic and detailed instructions will be provided for symptoms to look out for.
Numbness: You might have some mild tenderness and numbness after the surgery which resolves as the healing progresses. Only in very rare cases it can persist.
Closure of eyelids: The closure of your eyelids might feel difficult and tight after surgery but this will improve as the healing progresses. You will advised to use intensive lubrication during the postoperative period to prevent your eyes from drying.
