What is blepharoplasty?

 

Blepharoplasty is eyelid surgery which removes excess skin and sometimes fat to restore the eyelid contours.  It can be performed on the upper and lower eyelids, in particular for those with excess skin / heavy eyelids.

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Whilst many factors come into how long this surgical result will last- we counsel that most people get 7-10 years out of this procedure. 

 

Benefits of blepharoplasty

• Rejuvenation and a more youthful appearance.

• Reduced eye puffiness

• Improve the appearance of under eye bags.

• Improves vision by removing excess skin that may be impinging on your sight.

• Correction to heavy eyelids / hooded eyelid

• Improve symmetry

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Procedure

Your appointment will take approximately 1-2 hours. 

 

If opted for, topical medical grade anaesthetic will applied for 1hr, and then removed. Measurements, markings and photos will then be taken followed by the injection of a local anaesthetic.

 

Your doctor will then commence the procedure which will take approximately one hour. A couple of incisions will be made in the crease of your eyelid to remove redundant skin and fat. 

 

Upon completion of the procedure the incisions will be stitched and dressed. We recommend taking some analgesics for pain relief and if possible, have someone drive you home.

 

Side effects include: Bruising, redness, swelling, infection during the first two weeks. 

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Your Doctor and medical team will discuss your scar and wound aftercare to ensure that you heal with optimal outcomes.

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After care

Your aftercare plays a vital role in the outcome of your treatment. Please follow our guidelines explicitly.

• You will be provided with a prescription for eye drops which are required to prevent your eyes from drying out and to aid in the recovery process. Follow your doctor's directions.

• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling

• Take Panadol or Ibuprofen as directed. 

• Apply silicone dressing  to your suture line twice a day to reduce the risk of infection. If your wound oozes please dab carefully with sterile gauze / cotton bud tip.

• Wear sunglasses as much as possible especially when exposed to the outside elements regardless of whether it is sunny or not. It is vital to protect your eyes from the sun, rain and wind.

• Do not strain your eyes for long periods of time, especially in the first 3 days.  i.e. reading, computer activities and television as these activities are known for drying out your eyes.

• No physical activity for two weeks ie: jogging, running, the gym and team sports.

• No alcohol for 3 weeks

• Do not wear contact lenses for at least two weeks or until your doctor has given you the all clear.

• Be mindful of activities that may increase the pressure of blood behind your eyes such as: heavy lifting, bending and lying flat on your back.

• Avoid smoking as this slows down your recovery and increases the risk of infection.

• Avoid spas, saunas and any other activities with prolonged exposure to heat.

 

You should be able to return to work 7 - 10 days post treatment

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