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Frequently asked questions
about Blepharoplasty .
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty removes the excess fat, skin and atrophied muscle from the
upper and/or lower eyelids. It is a very popular procedure as hooded eyes
seem to lack luster and seem old or tired by many patients.
Many individuals who choose this procedure are very aware that their upper eyelids
have seemed to disappear within the herniated fat of the upper eye area. Fat
herniation is quite normal and will happen to everyone with age. However some
individuals have herniated fat in the upper area of their eyes even in their early
teens.
Sometimes a blepharoplasty can improve an individual's vision. This is achieved
by removing the excess fat and skin that may block an individual's peripheral field
of vision.
Whatever the individual case, the purpose of a blepharoplasty is for the aesthetic
appeal that wider, youthful eyes possess.
How is the Blepharoplasty performed?
Blepharoplasty is usually performed using local anesthesia and light sleep sedation
or General.
The incisions are made within the natural creases of the eyelids. The Surgeon removes
the herniated fat and excess skin and sutures the incision with very fine hair-like
sutures.
Removal of the entire fat pads underneath the eye should be discouraged. Excessive
removal of this fat is disastrous in most patients, as it often results in hollowness
or a dark, sunken appearance. Minimal removal has proven quite beneficial in
those who may need it - in those who do not, only the excess skin should be
removed.
Is there much scarring with a Blepharoplasty?
Some scarring should be expected, although the scarring associated with blepharoplasty
is quite minimal and practically non-existent after several months.
The scars are placed within the normal creases and folds of the upper and lower
eyelids so that when the eyes are open the scars are invisible. With lower
blepharoplasty, where the fat is to be removed with no skin excision, the incision
can be made either on the inside of the eyelid or under the lash line. Many surgeons
prefer the transconjuctival incision with fat removal-only cases.
At what age is Blepharoplasty performed?
There is no set age when blepharoplasty is performed, however the usual
ages that patients start making consultation appointments for blepharoplasty is
from 35 upwards. It is however highly individual and excess skin and fat
around the eye area may be desired to be removed younger than 35 years of age.
Will a Blepharoplasty get rid of my eye wrinkles?
A blepharoplasty is not designed to remove the wrinkles. It is designed
to remove the excess skin and herniated fat from the lid areas only. Other
procedures are available to aid such complaints; Chemical Peels and Laser Resurfacing
can help soften wrinkles around the eye significantly.
What should I expect post-operatively?
There will be swelling and there may also be some bruising but
some patients are prone to bruising more than others.
The eyelids may feel tight and sore as the anesthesia wears off, but medication
should control discomfort. Vision may be a blurry for several days due to the swelling
and eyes may be watery or may be dry. There should not be extensive pain.
The pain as associated with blepharoplasty has been described as mild discomfort,
as if the skin was sunburned and the eysballs irritated.
When will my stitches be taken out?
Stitches are normally removed after 3 to 5 days. There may be a stinging
sensation form tugging on the sutures while removing them.
When will I be able to see the results?
After the swelling goes down you will be able to see a definite difference.
What are the risks of Blepharoplasty?
It is possible to develop asymmetry during healing or excessive scarring if you
are prone.
You may experience difficulty in closing your eyes when sleeping. In rare
instances this condition may be permanent.
If you have thyroid problems (hypothyroidism or Graves' disease) dry eyes or insufficient
tearing, circulatory disorders or high blood pressure, having blepharoplasty may
be more risky for you than an otherwise healthy individual.
Other disorders that may increase your risks are myasthenia gravis, cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, a detached retina or glaucoma (and other high pressures of the
eye), poor circulation and poor elasticity.
Sometimes the eye area will not heal correctly and you just may have to have an
additional surgery to correct it.
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