EYELID / EYEBAG SURGERY

What is eyelid or eyebag surgery?

Also called Blepharoplasty, this is designed to remove excess skin and fatty deposits around the upper and lower eyelids. It will create a more rested and refreshed look. Excess skin is the most common sign of aging in the upper lid, whereas excess fat is the cause of bulging or puffiness in the lower lid region giving it the tired or haggard look.
 

What is eyelid fold surgery? How is it done?

This is done for Asians who do not have an upper eyelid fold. It involves creation a fold in one’s upper lid by suturing a portion of the upper eyelid muscle called the levator aponeurosis to the eyelid skin. Crucial to this procedure is your surgeon’s expertise and grasp of anatomy, proportions and symmetry to make the fold natural-looking.
 

What can I expect before, during and after these procedures?

As with any surgery, a comprehensive pre-operative evaluation done by your doctor is crucial to the success of your operation. Any previous surgeries or eye problems will be investigated. A consult with an ophthalmologist or eye doctor may be necessary. Any concomitant medical condition, allergies, bleeding problems will be addressed and all medications being taken will be reviewed and recorded.

These procedures are done under light sedation and local anesthesia. The local anesthesia will be given using very fine needles. Incisions will be done on the upper lid and just below the lash line. The procedure usually takes 1-3 hours.

Swelling and bruising do occur and generally subside in about one week. The fine sutures used are removed in 2-3 days and the hidden subcuticular sutures are pulled out after 7 days. Generally, patients are able to return to work in one week although there is variation from patient to patient. In 10-14 days makeup can be worn and most patients can go out in public. Your recovery is not limited by discomfort or physical problems. Your appearance is the rate-limiting factor.

Your surgeon will allow you to return to strenuous physical activity in three to four weeks following surgery. Scars may be slightly visible with the eyes closed for several months after surgery. The scars are slightly pink during this period. They generally fade into a fine, white line. However, the positive effects of your blepharoplasty will last for more or less five years.
 

What are the possible complications?

While the eyelid operation has a very low risk, there are complications with any surgical procedure. These include minor complications such as prolonged swelling, slight differences in healing when comparing one eye to the other, and occasionally visible scars. Rare or more serious complications such as visual changes, difficulty closing the eyes when asleep, and ectropion can also occur. These may require corrective surgery. Infection is very rare. Bleeding very occasionally may occur and may require a return to the operating theater for control.