Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty is used to remove the fat deposits and loose skin that may form on the lower eyelids with age. An incision is made along the lash line, smile creases. Excess fat, muscle and skin are removed. Fine sutures are used to close the incision.
Duration of the Operation:
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty generally takes about one to three hours to complete, depending on the technique used and the extent of repair.
Post operative care:
After surgery, the physician will lubricate your eyes with ointment to reduce dryness in this area. Your vision may be blurred temporarily from the ointment. The first evening after surgery, you should rest quietly with your head elevated. It will help to apply cold compresses to your eyelids. Your blood pressure should be monitored to avoid bleeding complications that can affect vision and limit activities from mild to moderate gradually. You should wear dark sunglasses for a couple of weeks to protect your eyes from wind and sun irritation.
Recovery Period:
Stitches will be removed within the first week. Bruising, swelling and discoloration around your eyes will gradually subside for several weeks. Within the fist week you will be permitted to use make up to conceal any discoloration if desired. You will receive eye drops to help relieve burning sensation and itching as well. For the first week you need to avoid activities like watching TV, wearing contacts and using computer. For the first 3or 4 weeks, you should avoid any activity that increases blood flow to the eyes, including bending, lifting, crying and sports.
Possible risk and complications:
Complications are rare; however there are risks associated with any medical procedure. Possible complications include: infection, bleeding (rare) but can cause loss of vision, prominence of the scars, asymmetry in healing or scarring, dryness, decrease sensation in the eyelid, difficulty closing the eyes, or any reaction to anesthesia and in rare instances blindness. You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your plastic surgeon, both before and after your eyelid surgery. Pre-existing conditions can also put you at risk. They include thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism, insufficient tear production or dryness of the eye, elevated blood pressure or other circulatory disorders, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Anesthesia use:
General or local anesthesia with mild sedation
Hospital admission:
It depends on your preferences as well as your surgeon’s. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed on an out patient basis, in the hospital, or in an ambulatory surgical suite.
Preparation before Surgery
- Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation.
- Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process.
- You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period.
- Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.
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