Eyelids (blepharoplasty)

What is it?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects defects such as drooping upper eyelids, loose skin, surplus fatty tissue and dark shadows all of which can make the eyes look tired and the face much older.

The surgical process consists of the removal of excess skin and fatty tissue contained within the upper and lower eyelids as well as repositioning drooping eyebrows. It is also possible to modify the shape of the eyes by lifting and/or repositioning the lateral corner of the eye.

Most patients who opt for blepharoplasty are men and women aged between 40 and 60 with visible signs around the eye area that need correcting but have skin with good elasticity. Older patients may also benefit from this procedure.

How is it done?

The operation is usually performed under local anesthetic with sedation in outpatient care. The orbital muscle and the fat bags are contoured, excess skin is removed and incisions are made in the folds of the upper and lower eyelids which means they are more or less invisible.

The operation takes 1 – 2 hours after which ice is applied to the eyelids to sooth the area.

Recovery

You will need 48 hours complete bed rest with your head slightly raised after which you can resume normal life albeit at a slower pace to begin with. We recommend that patients give themselves at least 7 – 10 before returning to work (unless it is excessively tiring) and 3 weeks before starting sporting activities again.

(Please see FAQ section for more details)

Fig.1 Drooping eyelids with excess skin & fat.		Fig.2 Removal of excess skin.
Fig.3 Incisions.		Fig.4 Result and scars.