Blepharoplasty | Eye Lid Surgery: Preparation & Treatment

Who is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)?

You may be a suitable candidate for blepharoplasty if you:

• Are generally over the age of 30, in good overall health, and have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of eyelid surgery.
• Have sagging eyelids, extra eyelid skin, or under eye bags affecting your vision or appearance
• Are looking to correct loose eyelid skin through eyelid fat removal or eyelid cosmetic procedures
• Want aesthetic improvement with upper eyelid plastic surgery, lower eyelid plastic surgery, or double blepharoplasty
• Seek eyelid rejuvenation for hooded eyelid treatment or cosmetic eye lift.

Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Eye conditions such as glaucoma, dry eyes, or detached retina
• Thyroid disorders like Graves’ disease, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism
• Heart or circulation issues including cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure
• Diabetes, as it may affect healing and increase risks during surgery

How Should I Prepare for Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)?

Before blepharoplasty, your surgeon will guide you on the steps to take to ensure a safe and smooth procedure. These may include:

• Medical evaluation: Blood tests or general health checks may be recommended.
• Medication review: You may need to stop or adjust certain medicines, especially blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Fasting instructions: If your eyelid surgery involves general anaesthesia, you will likely need to avoid food and drink for a few hours beforehand.
• Plan ahead: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you on the first night.

Before the Procedure

Blepharoplasty is typically performed as a day-care procedure at a clinic or surgical centre.

Before the eyelid surgery begins:

• Local anaesthesia may be administered to numb the eyelids for your comfort during the procedure.
• In some cases, a sedative through an IV line may be given to help you relax during the procedure.
• The treatment area will be cleaned thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection.

During the Procedure

During blepharoplasty, your surgeon will carefully remove or reposition skin, fat, and muscle to refresh the appearance of your eyelids.

• Upper eyelid plastic surgery involves a small incision along the natural fold of the upper eyelid. Through this cut, your surgeon removes excess eyelid skin, muscle, and sometimes fat deposits. The incision is then closed with fine stitches to minimise scarring.
• Lower eyelid plastic surgery is done through a cut just below the lower lash line or inside the lower lid. This allows the surgeon to remove or redistribute under eye fat, tighten loose eyelid skin, and reduce under eye bags.
• In some cases, if the upper eyelid is drooping close to the pupil (ptosis), a ptosis repair may be performed alongside blepharoplasty to lift the eyelid for improved vision and appearance.

After the Procedure

Once blepharoplasty is complete, you will be moved to a recovery room where the medical team will monitor you for a short time. Most patients return home the same day to continue healing. After surgery, you may experience temporary side effects such as:

• Blurred vision due to the lubricating ointment used during the procedure
• Watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Double vision
• Numb or puffy eyelids
• Swelling and bruising, often resembling black eyes
• Mild discomfort or pain, which is usually manageable with prescribed medications

Do’s and Don’ts After Blepharoplasty

Follow these aftercare guidelines to heal safely and get the best results from your blepharoplasty operation. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.

Do:

• Use cold compresses or ice packs on your eyes for 10 minutes every hour on the first night. From the next day, apply 4–5 times during the day to reduce swelling.
• Use any prescribed eye drops or ointments as directed to prevent infection and dryness.
• Sleep with your head elevated above chest level for a few days to reduce puffiness and promote healing.
• Wear dark sunglasses when outside to protect healing skin from sunlight and wind.
• Take paracetamol (acetaminophen) for mild pain if needed. Avoid medications that may increase bleeding.
• Attend follow-up visits

Don’t:

• Avoid heavy activities like lifting, jogging, swimming, or aerobics for at least one week.
• Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to your eyes during the recovery period to support proper healing.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses for about two weeks after eyelid cosmetic surgery.
• Don’t take aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or any blood-thinning supplements unless cleared by your doctor.
• Refrain from smoking, as it can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe new eye pain or excessive bleeding
• Vision issues like loss of sight or worsening double vision

Benefits of Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, offers several cosmetic and functional benefits. Here are the key benefits of blepharoplasty:

• Removes excess eyelid skin that can cause a tired or aged look
• Lifts sagging eyelids, improving both appearance and field of vision
• Helps reduce loose eyelid skin that may hang over the lashes
• Smoothens puffiness or under eye bags through eyelid fat removal
• Improves symmetry and shape of the eyelids for a more balanced appearance
• Offers visible rejuvenation of the eye area, enhancing facial aesthetics
• Addresses hooded eyelid concerns, especially in blepharoplasty for men and Asian eyes
• Delivers long-lasting results, especially effective for both cosmetic and functional issues