Upper eyelid surgery can correct droopy eyelids, which can even interfere with peripheral vision. By removing excess wrinkled skin, blepharoplasty “opens up” the eyes and gives the face a fresher, brighter, younger and more rested appearance. During lower eyelid surgery, the protruding fat (bag) is removed, as well as a minimal amount of skin. Thus, eyelid surgery improves sagging upper eyelids and removes ‘puffiness’ and sagging lower eyelids.

The bags under the eyes will be eliminated from the inside of the lower eyelid. Upper and lower eyelid surgery can be performed together at the same surgical time.

Dark circles under the eyes can be treated with lower eyelid plastic surgery if they result from shadows due to increased fat or bags. If the dark circles result from pigmentation changes in the eyelid skin, skin lightening creams and light chemical peels can improve this condition.

If drooping upper eyelids are interfering with your field of vision, the blepharoplasty procedure can be considered a “medically necessary” surgery.

Most of the time there are no visible scars after complete healing as the eyelids are one of the best areas for healing. In addition, the eyelid incisions are made in the natural folds and creases of the skin. Once healed, the scars practically disappear, leaving a very discreet line that becomes practically imperceptible after healing.

If you have pierced your ears for example, the way they heal is a good indication of how you will recover from facial surgery. Scars on the rest of the body are not usually an indication of how patients heal after facial surgery. At the time of your consultation, it is important to show the professional any previous scars (called keloid or hypertrophic scars) that are a cause for concern, so that they can make a realistic assessment of your healing potential after facial surgery. If you have a history of abnormal scarring, there are also medications that can be used to help prevent excess scarring.

Eyelid surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. Light oral sedation can be administered according to the patient’s wishes. Eyelid surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.

After any surgical procedure, some discomfort can be expected. However, all patients are prescribed pain medication. Patients experience surprisingly little discomfort after most eyelid procedures. Generally, a Paracetamol or Novalgina is all patients need (along with ice packs) placed over their eyes for 24 hours.

New techniques have significantly reduced healing time. However, each patient’s healing time varies according to the type of procedure performed, medical history and physical health. You can expect to return to work within a few days, if you don’t mind looking a bit swollen. Many patients return to work within a few days wearing glasses. If your appearance and discretion are important, you’ll need to take at least 7 days off.

There is no specific age at which blepharoplasty should be performed, as the need for this procedure can vary from person to person. It is generally considered when there are significant signs of ageing on the eyelids, such as excess skin, sagging muscles or fat pockets.