Eyelid surgery or an “eye lift” is medically known as Blepharoplasty; a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin from the upper lids and to remove fat, or add fat from the lower lids in order to redefine the shape of the eye.
There are three different types of eyelid surgery that can be performed.
Upper eyelid
This procedure is performed to remove excess skin and fat that can create a heavy looking eyelid, aged appearance, puffiness, and sometimes blocked vision. Upper blepharoplasty is performed to remove excess skin and fat and can improve vision.
Double eyelid surgery
This procedure – sometimes termed “Asian eyelid surgery” – is performed to create an upper eyelid crease. Double eyelid surgery is also sometimes referred to as “westernization” of the eyelid.
Lower eyelid surgery
This procedure is performed to reduce wrinkles, and improve the shape of the lower eyelid by removing excess skin and fat. Tightening the eyelid corrects droopiness and sagging. Fat can also be added to plump out and improve a “hollowed” appearance.
Some commonly desired outcomes for candidates considering eyelid surgery are:
Adult candidates – whether male or female – are able to have elective eyelid surgery. This procedure is usually performed on candidates over the age of 35, but if hereditary influences cause excessive drooping or bags, the procedure may be an option for younger patients.
Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery should demonstrate good physical and mental health. Smokers are encouraged to quit several weeks before the procedure to avoid slow healing and potential post-procedure problems. It is also recommended that drinking alcohol is kept to a minimum before and after surgery, in order to avoid complications during surgery and reduce recovery time.
Once a candidate’s suitability for eyelid surgery has been determined, Dr. Zacharia will provide consultation to explain the proposed surgery and the variables that may affect the procedure.
The cost of eyelid surgery varies, depending on the patient and complexity of the procedure performed. The cost will be inclusive of fees for the physician, anaesthetic, hospital fees, and, if applicable, charges for an overnight stay.
Generally, any surgery performed purely for cosmetic reasons will not be covered by health insurance. In some cases, wherein the procedure is deemed medically necessary – such as the correction of birth defects or damage resulting from trauma – cosmetic procedures may be covered. Patients are encouraged to speak directly to their health service provider to determine the specifics of their policy and confirm insurance coverage.
Book a consultation, request a quote online, or contact the staff at Dr. Zacharia’s rooms today on (02) 9192 1600.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Zacharia will discuss the procedure with the patient in detail; outlining possible risks and limitations, the financial costs involved, the patient’s expectations and goals, and the recovery process. He will also conduct a medical examination and assist in preparing the patient both physically and mentally for eyelid surgery.
Dr. Zacharia will then provide the patient with an easy-to-read information packet that explains all the required information to be aware of prior to undergoing eyelid surgery.
Eyelid surgery is most often performed using local anaesthesia. However, at the patient’s request, general anaesthesia may be used. Dr. Zacharia and his anaesthetist will assist each patient to make the decision regarding which type of anaesthesia is most suitable.
Eyelid surgery can take up to three hours if the patient is undergoing procedures on both the upper and lower lids.
Upper eyelid surgery involves making small incisions on the skin to allow for removal of skin and fat. A thin stitch is then used to bring the skin together to allow for a creation of an eyelid crease.
Lower eyelid surgery can involve skin incisions directly below the lash line or an incision on the inside of the eyelid; this is called a transconjunctival approach. The transconjunctival approach allows for access to the eyelid fat without visible incisions making this technique perfect for patients who need fat removed or added.
No surgery is risk free, and as with all procedures there are numbers of potential risks and complications to consider when undergoing eyelid surgery. Understanding those risks prior to having surgery is essential.
The likelihood that complications will occur during eyelid surgery or the recovery process is very small. This is not intended to be a complete list of possible complications, but rather an overview of the most common risks associated with this kind of surgery:
In rare cases, patients will have difficulty closing their eyes when they sleep. In very rare cases, complications can cause the lower lid to droop away from the eye. Subsequent surgery may be required to alleviate this condition should such complications occur.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Zacharia will answer any questions and provide detailed information regarding all possible complications involved with the surgery.
In most instances, the recovery time after eyelid/blepharoplasty is short. The incisions will be red and visible at first, and the eyelids may be puffy or feel numb for several days. Bruising and swelling is to be expected the day after surgery, and will begin to dissipate shortly after.
Participating in light activities such as walking will also help to speed up the healing process. Thin bandages are usually placed over the incision sites and removed in several days, while the stitches can remain in the skin for about a week.
Contact lenses may not be worn for two weeks. Eyes can be sensitive to light and wind and may be slightly irritated for a short while; eye drops and cool compresses may be prescribed to ease any discomfort.
Most patients return to normal activities after seven to ten days following eyelid/blepharoplasty. The majority of the bruising and swelling will resolve within the first two weeks after surgery.
Any time an incision is made in the skin, scarring will form during the healing process. Successful incision healing is dependent on several factors, including:
Dr. Zacharia will make every effort to make any scars as inconspicuous as possible. Eyelid surgery does result in scarring, which may be noticeable for two to three months after the procedure. Fine sutures are used to close the incisions, which minimise scar visibility.
Final eyelid/blepharoplasty results are usually seen two to three months after the procedure has been performed. Most often, it takes several months for the incisions to heal, with most of the visual swelling dissipating after approximately one month.