
15 Jun Am I A Good Candidate For Blepharoplasty? Correcting Droopy Eyelids With Surgery
Open Your Eyes With Blepharoplasty
A surgical procedure where extra skin is removed from the eyelids is known as blepharoplasty. Excess skin around the eyelids happens over time due to weakened muscles. This results in droopy eyelids, sagging eyebrows, or eye bags, which blepharoplasty can correct. However, this surgery is only suitable for some candidates.
Who is a good candidate?
After taking a complete medical history, the surgeon will decide if the patient is a good candidate for blepharoplasty. A good candidate is a patient who is healthy with no pre-existing medical conditions that can impact healing. Having no serious eye conditions is necessary to qualify for the surgery. Additionally, patients who are non-smokers are considered good candidates. In most cases, after a blepharoplasty, patients feel confident with an improved facial appearance.
Preparing for eye surgery
The doctor will first take the patient’s medical history and perform eye tests such as a complete eye exam, visual field testing, and eyelid photography. The surgeon may ask the patient to stop certain medications before the procedure, especially any drugs that cause bleeding. Smokers will be asked to stop, if possible, or cut back, to minimize the risk of complications.
Surgery day
Blepharoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure. At the start of the procedure, the patient will be given local medication to numb the eyelids. Conscious or twilight sedation may also be used to help the patient relax. The surgeon will make a cut and remove excess skin or fat and then close the skin after removal. Once the operation is done, the patient is transferred into the recovery room for observation. Temporary symptoms such as watery eyes, blurry vision, light sensitivity, discomfort, pain, and numb eyelids are expected but should resolve quickly.
Recuperating at home
The patient can go home on the same day of the surgery. After the procedure, swelling and bruising can occur, which is considered normal. Stitches will be present for at least 1 week. After 1-2 weeks, the patient should feel normal again. Follow the doctor’s advice on proper post-op care for the best results.
Surgical safety
Every surgical procedure comes with possible risks and complications. Blepharoplasty complications are uncommon but can include bleeding, infection, dry eyes, skin discoloration, and inability to close the eyes. Potential risks include eye muscle injury, scarring, blurry vision, and vision loss. Consult the healthcare provider immediately if experiencing any complications.
Blepharoplasty effectiveness
The results of eyelid surgery are promising. The improvements from surgery last for at least 5-7 years for most patients. For some patients, droopy eyelids may return, and another procedure is advisable.
Seeing a brighter future
A blepharoplasty can help patients looks better and see better. The procedure is a quick and efficient way to make the eyes look younger and more alert. If drooping eyelids are a concern, consult a healthcare provider to determine if blepharoplasty can help.