An eyelid surgery is a safe and effective way to quickly rejuvenate your appearance, but as with all surgeries, there are some blepharoplasty risks you should be aware of.
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a cosmetic procedure that is designed to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Whether you’re looking to correct a functional problem or enhance your appearance, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.
Blepharoplasty can be used to correct:
- Loose/sagging skin around the eyelid, that can often impair vision.
- Puffiness (fatty deposits) in the eyelids
- Eyebags
- Drooping lower eyelids
Rejuvenate Your Appearance With Our Customised Eyelid Surgery
At Okanagan Health Centre, our team of qualified, board-certified plastic surgeons have experience and expertise in creating tailored blepharoplasty procedures. Whether you want to improve your vision or enhance your appearance, our customized procedures can help you achieve all your specific goals.
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What is Involved in an Eyelid Surgery?
When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, a blepharoplasty can be performed under general anaesthetic, or local anaesthetic with sedation, depending on your particular situation. The procedure can be done on both the upper and lower eyelids.
Surgery on the upper eyelid will involve:
- Making an incision along the eyelid crease, in the natural fold of your eyelid.
- Removing any excess fat, muscle, or skin.
- Stitching up the incision. The scar will be hidden in the natural fold of your eyelid.
Surgery on the lower eyelid will involve:
- Making an incision either just below the lower lashes or on the inside of the eyelid.
- Eliminating or shifting fat from the bags under the eyes, as well as removing some excess skin.
- Supporting the muscles and tendon of the eyelids if required.
After the blepharoplasty, your surgeon may apply suture strips to support your eyelids. These are usually removed 7 days later.
- Upper eyelid surgery: this can take up to one hour.
- Lower eyelid surgery: this can take up to two hours.
Typically, both procedures are outpatient surgeries and you can return home the same day.
Blepharoplasty: What to Expect and What Could Go Wrong
Most plastic surgeons recommend that you take 10 days off work to recover from your eyelid surgery, and you won’t be able to drive for a few days after your operation.
In addition, there are some common side effects to expect:
- Puffy, numb eyelids which could be difficult to close.
- Irritated, sensitive, or watery eyes.
- Bruising around the treatment area.
- Pink scars.
To reduce the side effects of your eyelid surgery, there are several steps you can take, including:
- Prop your head up with pillows when resting to reduce any swelling.
- Gently clean your eyelids using prescribed ointment or eye drops.
- Use a cold pack to help reduce any discomfort or swelling.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind.
- Take paracetamol or any other prescribed medication to reduce your pain.
Risks of Blepharoplasty
While eyelid surgery is a relatively straightforward and simple operation, it is a surgical procedure, and as with all surgeries, there are some risks associated with it, including:
- Temporary blurred or double vision
- Eyes that look slightly asymmetrical
- Haematoma (pool of blood collecting under the skin) that will disappear after a few weeks.
- Noticeable scarring.
Rarely, the procedure can result in more serious problems, including:
- Injury to eye muscles
- Lower eyelid drooping away from the eye
- Blindness
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Developing a blood clot
- Allergic reaction to the anaesthetic
During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will discuss these potential risks and side effects with you to help you make the most informed and safest decision.
Call Today
To find out more about the costs, benefits, and risks of eyelid surgery, contact our Kelowna private hospital today at 250-868-9799 or book a consultation.
