Eye Bag Removal Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

What are the benefits of blepharoplasty surgery?

As in any other cosmetic surgeries, the benefits of the eye lid surgery are both physical and psychological.

The aesthetic appearance of the eyes and the vision can be affected in time by aging, environmental (sun, pollution) and genetic factors. In these cases, blepharoplasty surgery can reduce some of the problems that develop on both the upper and the lower eyelids.

The purpose of surgery is to remove the skin and fat excess at the level of the upper and lower eyelids. The above mentioned factors lead to the settlement of wrinkles and eye bags especially on the lower eyelid, giving a tired look for the patient.

The (visible) benefits can be summarized as below:

• the drooping upper lids and puffy bags below the eyes are corrected
• the tired look that is given by the lower and upper eyelid bags is eliminated
• the eye appearance gains luminosity and vividness and the face becomes lighter and younger
• the field of vision is significantly improved

The invisible benefit is of course the psychological relief. The surgery may enhance the patient's self-confidence. Usually, the persons who require this type of surgery are aged people of both genders.

How is blepharoplasty performed?

It is a relatively simple operation for the surgeon and for the patient as well. The procedure takes place under local or general anaesthesia, its usually takes around and hour or two depending on the extent of surgery.

There are two types of blepharoplasty. The most performed type is the transconjunctival blepharoplasty and involves an incision in the inside of the lower eyelid (transconjunctival) to remove excess fat, but not skin, from beneath the eye.

The second kind is called the transcutaneous blepharoplasty (incision made through the skin). This one involves the upper eyelids treatment, as well as the lower eyelids if excess skin is present.

The tiny incisions are hidden in the natural crease of the upper eyelid and just under the lashes on the lower lid. Sometimes they can be hidden in the lower lid itself.

What risks are associated with blepharoplasty surgery?

As in any other cosmetic procedures, understanding the risks is an important step before having surgery. The complications of this procedure are extremely uncommon and usually they can be treated.

The surgeon also needs to know if in your medical record there are certain aspects that can make the operation more risky. These include:

• Abnormal thyroid hormone levels (e.g., hypothyroidism, Grave's disease)
• Dry-eye syndrome
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Diabetes

Some of the most serious, also extremely rare complications are mentioned below:

Infection - this is very rare, but can happen after eyelid surgery and or any surgery.�The infection is treated with antibiotic ointments during the first few weeks after surgery.

Blood clot behind the eyeball (Haematoma) � It is exceedingly rare that behind the eyeball or under the skin blood clots may develop. The most common symptom of this complication is typically a steady, stabbing pain similar to glaucoma. If this is the case, removal is necessary.

Loss of Eyelashes � This complication is again very uncommon post eyelid surgery.

Ptosis � This is the medical term for drooping eyelids.�This inability can be over treated surgically.

Eyelid Skin Loss - this may happen extremely rare and usually heals without any additional operation.�Occasionally, the affected site may need a small skin graft.

Eye Sight alteration - the affection, in different extent, of the vision; usually temporary.

Pain � temporary is very rare as well but can be treated with medication.

What questions should I ask my surgeon about the blepharoplasty surgery?

For the first consultation with the physician, you are advised to prepare a set of questions that might help them better understand the benefits, risks and performance of the procedure.

Here below are some questions to ask your surgeon regarding blepharoplasty:

• Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
• What type of blepharoplasty will you perform? Which do you recommend for me and why?
• How should I prepare for the operation?
• Can you explain the intervention to me in detail?
• What benefits can I expect from the surgery?
• What side effects and complications may I experience by undergoing the procedure?
• Will I have pains during or after the procedure?
• How long will it take before I can start my normal activities following blepharoplasty?
• My mother had eyelid puffiness after a certain age. How likely am I to have this as well?
• How long will the results last?
• What cosmetic procedures can be combined with blepharoplasty for a better effect?
• What instructions should I follow after the operation?