Information on upper eyelid blepharoplasty

Gravity, loss of elastic tissue in the skin with age, weakening of the connective tissues around the eyelid and drooping of eyebrows frequently contributes to lax and redundant upper eyelid skin. Saggy upper eyelid skin can obstruct the visual field (you may not be able to see the full extent of your lateral and upper vision). A blepharoplasty is performed to remove this excess skin and improve the field of vision.

How is upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery done?

Blepharoplasty surgery is most often performed under local anaesthesia.General anaesthesia may be utilized in appropriately selected patients.

First, the excess upper eyelid skin is measured, marked and excised. A small amount of soft tissue and/or fat may be removed in some cases to improve the appearance of the eyelid. After the desired amount of excision is accomplished the skin incisions are closed with sutures.

Eyelid will appear bruised and swollen soon after the operation and can sometimes take up to a few weeks for this swelling to resolve completely.

Is the local anaesthetic injection painful?

This varies from person to person. A very fine needle is used and there may be a feeling of pain, stinging or pressure which usually lasts less than a minute.

What are possible risks and complications of upper eyelid blepharoplasty?

Failure to meet the patient’s expectations, residual excess skin, asymmetry or scarring may necessitate additional treatment or a secondary operation.

Overcorrection is rare and may cause upper eyelid retraction which may result in the inability to close the eye. Lubricating eye drops and massage may be helpful for managing mild overcorrection.Severe cases of overcorrection are very rare and may require a second operation.Turning of the eyelids inwards or outwards is a rare complication and may also require a second procedure for correction.

Although the result of an upper eyelid blepharoplasty may be expected to last for years, aging will continue and further overhanging skin may develop due to drooping of eyebrows.