Lower Eyelid Surgery
For traditional lower lid blepharoplasty: An incision
is made just beneath the lash line. Excess fat, muscle and skin
are removed. Fine sutures are used to close the incision. Permanent
stitches will be removed 3-5 days after the procedure
If you have a pocket of fat beneath your lower eyelids, but
do not need to have any loose skin removed, your surgeon may
recommend a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. In this procedure
the incision is made inside your lower eyelid, leaving no visible
scar. It is usually performed on younger patients with fatty
lower eyelids. Transconjunctival blepharoplasty does not tighten
the skin, reduces the puffiness in the lower eyelid region.
Results
This Lower Eyelid Surgery will make eyes look brighter, larger,
and more rested by removing loose skin, stretched muscle, and
excess
fat. In some people this Lower Eyelid Surgery procedure will
improve vision by removing the excessive skin of the upper
eyelids which can hang down
and interfere with peripheral vision. Eyes will look more youthful.
The surgery of lower lids should smooth out bulges, take away
fat bags from under eyes, and make the skin snugger. One will
look rested, and people will see your face instead of focusing
on your unsightly lower lids. The results tend to be long lasting.
It is most common to have this surgery between ages 38 and
50.
Duration of Operation:
Half hour to one hour
Possible Risks and Complications
The risks and complications of Lower Eyelid Surgery may include
but there are not limited to bleeding, infection, scarring,
dry eye problems,
asymmetry,
difficulty closing the eyes, pulling down of the lower lids,
allergic reactions, eyelash hair loss, delayed healing, risks
and complications associated with anesthesia and in rare instances
blindness. Keep in mind that although complications can occur
but they are rare.
Risks and complications of Lower Eyelid Surgery are best discussed
at the time of your consultation. Smoker has a greater risk
of pulmonary
and wound healing compactions.
Side Effects
The severity and duration of such side effects may vary, especially
if another cosmetic procedure was performed at the same time.
After Care
The first evening after Lower Eyelid Surgery, you should rest
quietly with your head elevated. It will help to apply cold
compresses to
your eyelids. (Avoid any compress heavier than one ounce. A
Ziploc bag with a few frozen peas works well.) Your blood pressure
should be monitored to avoid bleeding complications that can
affect vision. And, although you can be up almost immediately,
you should limit your activities.
Recovery Time
At first the incisions will probably be red and somewhat bumpy.
Eventually, the resulting scar should become flat and inconspicuous.
Your sutures (stitches) will be removed sometime within the
first week.
The swelling and discoloration around your eyes will gradually subside, and you'll start to look and feel better each day. Swelling and bruising varies considerably from person to person. Bruising typically disappears within seven to ten days. Within the first week you will be permitted to use makeup, if desired, to conceal any discoloration.
Your vision may continue to be somewhat blurry for a few days or longer. Your eyes may be temporarily sensitive to light, and you may experience excess tearing or dryness. You may receive eyedroppers to help relieve any burning or itching.
Permanent stitches will be removed 3-5 days after surgery.
Most people are back to work within one to two weeks.
Hospital Admission
This depends on your preferences as well as your surgeon's.
Upper eyelid Blepharoplasty can be performed on an out patient
basis, in the hospital, or in an ambulatory surgical suite under
either general or local anesthesia.
Anesthetic
General or Local Anesthesia
General anesthesia (you are asleep) or local with sedation (Neuroleptic
anesthesia)
Post Operative Care
For the first week, you’ll need to avoid activities that
dry the eyes, including reading, watching television, wearing
contacts, and using a computer. Also avoid excessive blinking,
which leads to increased swelling. You should also wear dark
sunglasses for a couple of weeks to protect your eyes from wind
and sun irritation. The eyes may tire easily for several weeks;
frequent naps are helpful.
For the first three or four weeks, you should avoid any activity that increases blood flow to the eyes, including bending, lifting, crying and sports. Your surgeon will let you know when you are ready for exercise. Also avoid drinking alcohol, which can lead to fluid retention and delay recovery.
- Able to fly back home after seven days.
