Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Eyelid aging is usually due to loosening of the skin and bulging of fat. In the upper eyelids, this often causes a hooded appearance. Eyelid bags often appear in the lower eyelids. Blepharoplasty is an operation that can remove the loose skin and correct the bulging fat. It is one of the most common facial cosmetic procedures. It can’t remove crow’s feet, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows. Sagging eyebrows are often treated with a brow lift and crows feet often respond well to other cosmetic procedures.
At 152 Harley Street, blepharoplasty is carried out under Local Anaesthetic in our state-of-the-art day case theatre. You will be able to leave shortly after your procedure, but still receive the same thorough and excellent aftercare that you would expect with a general anaesthetic
“Blepharoplasty can be performed alone, or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift or browlift”
FAQ
THE SURGERY
Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia.
In the upper lids, an incision is usually made in the natural crease line above the eyelashes. The incision is usually extended into one of the natural laughter lines. The excess skin and fat in the upper lid is then removed and a fine suture is passed between the skin edges to close the wound. The stitches generally run beneath the skin so that there are no external stitch marks.
THE RISKS
Blepharoplasty is generally a very safe operation but inevitably, as with any surgery there are a few risks, these include haematoma formation (internal bruising), which rarely may require removal of the sutures to wash out any blood clot that has formed underneath the skin. Occasionally eyes water in cold or windy weather during the first week or two after surgery. Very occasionally these symptoms can be more prolonged.
AFTER YOUR SURGERY
There is usually mild swelling or bruising after blepharoplasty. During the first few nights after surgery, it is helpful to sleep with your head elevated on two to three pillows. Your eyelids may feel dry at night. You will be prescribed some eye ointment to take home to make you more comfortable during sleep. During the first week you should avoid bending down, as this tends to increase the swelling. The stitches are removed one week after surgery. Most patients can return to work after 10-14 days.