BLEPHAROPLASTY
What are the benefits?
Sagging eyelids and bags under the eyes can make the face seem tired and depressed. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, illuminates the face and makes that tired look disappear by getting rid of fat and loose skin. However, this procedure cannot change eyelid colour or change forehead sagging that can result in lines alongside the eyes. The good news? Blepharoplasty can ease wrinkles around the eyes.
Is it for me?
The best candidates for this procedure are men and women who are in good physical condition and have realistic expectations. Most patients are older than 35 at the time of the procedure, but inherited family traits may sometimes make a younger patient opt for the procedure as well. Some rare medical conditions make the procedure more risky, notably thyroid problems, dry eyes and hypertension.
Blepharoplasty can improve your appearance and self confidence, however, it won’t necessarily change the perception others have of you. Before opting for this type of procedure, be clear about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Duclos. She’ll be happy to answer any questions clearly and provide information on the type of procedure that’s best for you, including the pros and cons.
What techniques are used?
Blepharoplasty is a procedure that consists of removing skin and/or fat from the upper or lower eyelids. Incisions follow the natural lines of your eyelids, in the creases of your upper lids, and just below the lashes on the lower lids. The surgeon separates the skin from the fatty tissue and muscle so that excess skin and fat can be removed. However, an incision is not always necessary on the lower eyelid. This should be discussed with Dr. Duclos. Blepharoplasty can be done alone, or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift or browlift.
What should I expect?
During consultation, Dr. Duclos will evaluate your general condition as well as the state of your eyelids. She may then recommend operating on two or four eyelids and if necessary, other procedures, such as a facelift or browlift. She will point out the incision sites and explain the inherent risks of the procedure, explain each step of the procedure itself, which is usually performed under general anaesthetic, and discuss pre and post operative care.
The length of the procedure depends on the extent of the work that needs to be done. When done alone, blepharoplasty is generally performed under local anaethestic. Medication may also be administered to keep you calm. You will then remain under observation until the doctor decides you may leave the clinic. Painkillers will be prescribed and the date of your next appointment will be given to you before you leave. Make sure you ask someone to accompany you back home.
You may experience slight discomfort the first few days following the procedure, and this can be relieved by ice water compresses and acetaminophen. If you experience any intense and sudden pain, you must call your doctor immediately. Cold compresses can also reduce swelling and bruising that can occur during the first two days. You may find that the bruising and swelling extend to the cheeks. During the first weeks, your eyes may also tear more than usual and be sensitive to the sun.
During the first five days, you should keep your head elevated on pillows or even sleep in a lazy boy type chair. Don’t attempt any physical activity and don’t lean forward or down for any reason. You must also avoid exposing your scars to sunlight or in any kind of tanning salon for 6 months. You’ll be able to wear contact lenses after about a week. Most patients feel ready to go out in public and get back to work ten to fourteen days after the procedure.
What are the risks?
Complications for this type of procedure are rare but any procedure carries a certain amount of risk. The most common are infection or haemorrhaging due to scarring, tiny cysts at the site of the scar, difficulty closing the eyes when going to sleep (usually temporary and caused by swelling) and, very rarely, temporary or permanent ectropion (the outward turning or sagging of the lower eyelid) which may require retouching. A slight asymmetry is also possible.