Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

What is a Blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery can remove the “hooded” or droopy appearance in the upper lids and reduce the puffy bags that form below your eyes - features that may be making you look older and more tired than you feel. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and muscle from the eyelids and to re-distribute the bulging fat, so as to achieve a fresher, less tired look.

What does the operation involve?
Blepharoplasty may be performed under general anaesthesia, or under local anaesthesia with total intravenous sedation. It is often done as a daycase, but you may prefer to stay overnight after the operation.

The procedure is performed through incisions in the crease of the upper eyelids and just under the lash line of the lower lids. These incisions extend outwards just a little into the crow’s feet area. They usually heal to form fine scars that are well-concealed.

Is it right for me?
Both men and women are suitable candidates for eyelid surgery. Surgery may be of benefit if you find that the upper eyelid skin hangs heavily over your lids, you have excess skin under your eyes which hangs in folds or looks puffy and you find that people comment on your tired appearance.

If the sagging is more of the eyebrows than the eyelid then a Brow Lift may be of greater benefit. If you are seeking an improvement in your whole face, you may be a candidate for a Facelift combined with a Blepharoplasty.

If you suffer from thyroid problems, dry eye (not enough tears), high blood pressure or any major disorders, surgery my not be appropriate.

What are the risks and long term implications?
Complications are RARE, but you should be aware of them so that you can make an informed decision

Every operation carries with it the risk of bleeding, infection and delayed healing. Significant bleeding may require urgent reoperation. Infection and delayed healing may require antibiotics. There may be darkening of the skin of the eyelids, skin irregularities or asymmetry. The lower eyelid may retract to reveal the white of the eye, or even turn outwards to reveal the red lining on the inside. You may experience symptoms of dry eyes, which may persist longterm.

The scars heal very well in most patients, but please be aware that if you have dark skin, freckly skin or red hair, the scars may be more obvious or even lumpy.

What should I expect following surgery?
The recovery period may last between 10-14 days. There will be bruising and swelling, most of which subside by the end of the first week, and prescribed oral painkillers will help to control any discomfort. You should be able to venture out of doors in the second week. You should avoid driving until you are confident you can perform all necessary manoeuvres safely.

Our practice nurse will keep in close contact with you whilst you recover at home. Generally, You will be seen in the clinic at 5-7 days for removal of stitches, and thereafter at one month postoperatively. However, if there are any problems or concerns, you will be seen more frequently than this or as often as you wish. In the longer term, you are welcome to see Mr Ng for a check up at any time. All follow up appointments are free of charge whether they be at 2 months or 2 years post operatively.