Blepharoplasty - Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery

Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the eyelids that may involve removing excess fat, muscle, and skin. As we age, the eyelids tend to stretch as the muscles supporting them weaken. This results in excess fat gathering below and above the eyelids causing the eyebrows to sag, the upper lids to droop, and bags to form under the eyes. Apart from making you look older than you are, sagging skin around the eyes can reduce your peripheral vision (field of vision), especially the outer and upper parts of your field vision. Eyelid surgery can treat these vision problems and make the individual appear both alert and younger.

Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty

You can be the ideal candidate for eyelid surgery if you:

Have droopy or baggy eyelids
Have excess skin on the lower eyelids
Have excess skin on the upper eyelids that tends to interfere with the peripheral vision
Have bags under the eyes
Are healthy with no medical condition that can impair healing
Should not have any serious eye condition
Should be a nonsmoker

It should also be noted that drooping upper eyelids may also be due to relaxation of the forehead skin and the eyebrow. Before your Plastic Surgeon declares you as a good candidate for blepharoplasty, he/she will first have to evaluate you.

How to Prepare for Blepharoplasty

If you are thinking of undergoing eyelid surgery you have to consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who specializes in eye surgeries (oculoplastic surgeon) or a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon together with an ophthalmologist (eye specialist). During the consultation, you will discuss your concerns and expectations as well as your medical history. You will also undergo a physical examination, a visual examination, and eyelid photography. On the days leading to the surgery, you will be asked to avoid smoking and taking certain medications such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase the chance of bleeding during and after the procedure as well as slow down the healing process.

Eyelid Surgery Procedure

Eyelid surgery is done on an outpatient basis under either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The incision lines for blepharoplasty are designed in such a way that the resultant scars are well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region. The upper eyelid can be corrected using an incision made within the natural crease on the eyelid. This allows for the removal and/or repositioning of the fatty deposits, tightening of muscles, and the removal of excess skin. The lower eyelid can be corrected with an incision made just below the lower lash line. Through this incision, excess fat can be removed or repositioned and the excess skin in the lower eyelid removed. The incisions are closed with either sutures or skin glue. Sutures are usually removed within a week after eyelid surgery. To reduce discoloration of the lower eyelids, your Plastic Surgeon might suggest the use of a chemical peel or a laser.

Recovery and Results

Following the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours before going home. During the recovery from blepharoplasty, you may temporarily experience the following:

Watery eyes
Light sensitivity
Blurred vision
Double vision
Numb, puffy eyelids
Discomfort or pain
Bruising and swelling similar to having black eyes

Your Plastic Surgeon will give you certain instructions to follow that will ensure a smooth recovery and help in achieving the optimal results. The instructions include:

Cleaning the eyelids using prescribed ointments or eyedrops
Place ice-packs on the eyes for 10 minutes every hour the night after the eyelid surgery and four to five times a day after
Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and swimming for a week
Do not rub the eyes
Do not use contact lenses for about two weeks after the procedure
To reduce swelling, apply cold compresses
To protect the skin from the wind and sun, wear darkly tinted sunglasses

The results of blepharoplasty appear gradually after the bruising and swelling have subsided revealing a smooth, better-defined eyelid and surrounding area plus a rejuvenated and more alert appearance.

To Know More

Would you like to understand what options are available for Blepharoplasty in Dubai? Meet one of our experts at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery for a personal consultation to develop a tailor-made plan for you. Contact us or Book an appointment and our patient care coordinators will identify the most suitable expert for you.