Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, is a standard cosmetic procedure that can correct various issues in the eyelid and eye. Some eye surgeons specialize in eyelid and periocular surgery, while others focus on the eye socket.
Eyelid procedures can resolve wrinkled skin, eye bags, dark circles, and more, leaving you looking younger and with improved eyesight. Here are five things to know before getting eyelid surgery:
1. Candidate Eligibility
Blepharoplasty isn’t the only solution to common eye problems. Your surgeon may recommend non-surgical alternatives, depending on your condition. Discussing your options with the surgeon can help you understand what’s involved in the process and set realistic expectations. Most people seek eyelid procedures like upper and lower blepharoplasty for various reasons, including:
- Improve droopy/sagging eyelids
- Reduce pronounced bags under the eyes
- Remove excess skin on the eyelids
Some consider blepharoplasty to rejuvenate overall appearance by removing effects of aging, hereditary eyelid skin, and other factors. If your surgeon recommends the surgery for your condition, you can begin making preparations. Each client has unique needs, so choose an eyelid surgeon you can trust to explore your best options.
2. Pre-Surgery Preparation
Once you have the green light for the surgery, prepare to be at your best on the procedure date. Your surgeon will discuss the best practices, including things to avoid, what to bring to surgery, and more. A brow lift is also often considered because the brow naturally descends with aging and is connected to the eyelids.
Your eyelid surgeon may recommend quitting smoking and drinking in the days leading to the procedure. The surgeon will also discuss how the surgery will impact grooming, makeup, prescriptions, workouts, and daily routines. Ask questions to clear up all your doubts and concerns. Follow the surgeon’s recommendations to prepare and improve results.
3. Post-Surgery Downtime
Eyelid procedures are delicate, especially since blinking is involuntary. You’ll need to use your eyelids soon after treatment. Results aren’t immediate, so you’ll experience swelling and it may take several weeks for you to heal fully.
Once the swelling subsides, the aesthetic results will be noticeable. Most clients see the best results after six months or longer.
You should thoroughly consider the downtime and recovery time involved with blepharoplasty. Consult with the surgeon concerning their estimated recovery time and prospects of combining the surgery with other facial procedures.
You’ll likely receive a brow lift but may also get a facelift. Discussing post-surgery downtime allows you to plan your activities before the procedure.
4. Aftercare & Fine-Tuning
Cosmetic eyelid procedures like blepharoplasty are outpatient surgeries, so you’ll be back home the day of the surgery. You’ll experience mild side effects like swelling and bruising for the first two weeks.
The surgeon will keep you under recovery for a few hours after the procedure, after which you may be accompanied home. You’ll need a few days off work and a few weeks before resuming strenuous activities.
The surgeon will discuss what to expect after surgery, things to avoid, and the aftercare requirement, including makeup use.
You should also discuss additional procedures required to maintain and fine-tune the results. Plastic surgery is permanent but not immune to aging. Your surgeon may recommend liquid lift procedures to maintain and enhance the look after surgery.
5. Eyelid Surgery Risks
All surgeries come with risks, even when performed by the most experienced surgeons. You should discuss the risks associated with your surgery and learn more on your own.
The risk of surgery generally involves undesirable reactions to anesthesia, excessive bleeding, infection, and blood clots. Reported side effects and risks for upper and lower blepharoplasty include:
- Dry eyes
- Eye irritation
- Visible scarring and skin color variation
- Blurred vision (temporary)
- Eye muscle injury
- Inability to close eyes completely
Get your eyelid surgery from a highly qualified surgeon at a trusted facility. Working with an experienced professional you can trust is the best way to minimize risks.
The surgeon will help you prepare adequately, perform the procedure to your best knowledge and experience, and closely monitor your recovery. Eyelid procedures should be natural and rejuvenating.
