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Eyelid Reduction Surgery

Blepharoplasty, also referred to as eyelid reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure that can be performed under local anaesthetic to remove excess skin from the upper eyelids. The aim is to address skin that may be affecting the natural contour of the eyelid and, in some cases, contributing to heaviness in the upper eyelid area.

Eyelid Reduction Surgery Sydney

Blepharoplasty, also referred to as eyelid reduction surgery and sometimes called an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic. It involves the precise removal of excess skin from the upper eyelids. This procedure may be considered by people who have skin in the upper eyelid area that affects the natural contour of the eyelid or contributes to heaviness in that region.
Infrabrow Blepharoplasty Sydney

How eyelid reduction surgery may change the eyelid area

  • Removal of excess skin: The procedure involves removing skin from the upper and/or lower eyelids where it may be affecting the natural contour of the eyelid.
  • Adjustment of puffiness: In some cases, tissue or fat in the lower eyelid area may be surgically addressed to change the contour beneath the eyes.
  • Alteration of eyelid shape: Depending on individual anatomy, surgical changes may alter the visible shape of the eyelids.
  • Adjustment of symmetry: The procedure may be performed with the aim of creating a more similar appearance between the eyelids.
  • Reduction of prominent creases: Incisions and tissue adjustments may reduce the appearance of pronounced skin folds in the eyelid region.
  • Correction of drooping skin: Excess skin in the upper eyelids that overhangs the lash line can be removed to change how the upper eyelid sits.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

What to Expect

Consultation

The process begins with a pre-operative consultation with the surgeon. At this appointment, your medical history and the structure of your eyelids will be assessed, including skin condition, muscle tone, and fat distribution. This meeting also allows you to discuss your reasons for considering the procedure, ask questions, and receive information about what the surgery involves, including potential risks and expected recovery.

Number and type of consultation
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given
A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period
There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Preparation

Once a surgical plan has been confirmed, you will be provided with pre-operative instructions to help you prepare for eyelid reduction surgery. These may include dietary recommendations, guidance on smoking and alcohol use, directions regarding prescribed medications or supplements, and advice on skin care before the procedure.

Surgery

Eyelid reduction surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, generally takes between one and two hours and may be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia. The procedure involves making incisions along the natural creases of the eyelids. Through these incisions, the surgeon can remove excess skin and fat, and may adjust the underlying muscles if required. The incisions are then closed with sutures. The location of the incisions is intended to make them less noticeable once healed, although the visibility of scars can vary between individuals.
  • Surgery Time
    1 to 2 hours
  • Hospital Time
    Day procedure

Recovery

After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a short period. In most cases, people can go home the same day, although an overnight hospital stay may be recommended in some situations. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the eyelid area are common after surgery and typically reduce over time.

Many people are able to resume non-strenuous daily activities within about one week. More vigorous activities are generally avoided for at least two weeks or as advised by the surgeon. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to check healing progress and address any concerns.

Changes in eyelid appearance may be visible within several weeks, once initial swelling subsides. However, healing continues for several months, and the final appearance can vary between individuals due to factors such as healing response, skin characteristics, and whether other procedures were performed at the same time.
  • Time off work
    7 to 10 days
  • Cast Removal
    Sutures in for 7 to 10 days
  • Exercise
    4 to 6 weeks
  • Showering
    Can shower same day, however incisions must stay dry
  • Driving
    24 hours after general anaesthetic and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
  • Travel
    After 7 days for national and 4 weeks for international
  • Full Recovery
    6 months for final results

Send an Enquiry

Want to ask a question or organisation a consultation?

Dr Michael Zacharia

MBBS, FRACS, FAAFPS, ACCS
Dr Michael Zacharia is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Head and Neck (Otolaryngology) and practices in Facial Plastic Surgery. He is also an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and has completed over 8,000 procedures, with over 4,000 being Rhinoplasty. Combining the latest medical, surgical and health techniques, Dr Zacharia strives to deliver the best outcome for each and every one of his patients.
Cosmetic Surgeon & ENT Specialist
MED0001178357

Contact us

Make an Enquiry

Get in touch today to organise a consultation or to find out more information.

Our team will give you a call to discuss your enquiry and we will then send you any relevant information via email.
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications

  • Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
  • Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
  • Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
  • Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
  • Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
  • Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
  • Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Eyelid reduction surgery risks

  • Post-Surgical Pain: Following eyelid reduction surgery, patients may experience significant pain or discomfort, which would require proper pain management.
  • Risk of Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there's a potential risk of developing a postoperative infection, which might necessitate further medical intervention.
  • Scarring: Despite efforts to minimize and strategically place incisions, any surgical procedure, including eyelid reduction, can result in noticeable scarring.
  • Altered Eyelid Function: There's a risk of temporary or permanent changes in eyelid function, including difficulty closing the eyes, dry eyes, or excessive tearing.
  • Changes in Vision: The surgery could lead to temporary or permanent changes in vision, including blurred vision, double vision, or in rare cases, loss of vision.
  • Asymmetry: Despite the surgeon's best efforts, there may be an asymmetrical appearance of the eyelids after the surgery.
  • Dissatisfaction with Cosmetic Outcome: The aesthetic results of the surgery might not meet the patient's expectations, necessitating additional corrective procedures.

AHPRA Registration

  • Dr Michael Zacharia MED0001178357 - Otolaryngology
  • Dr Kenneth Brito MED0001680302 - General Practice
  • Dr Ahmed Alsultan MED0001647273 - General Practice
Disclaimer: Surgical and invasive procedures are not an exact science and they carry risks. Results vary with each patient depending on their age, health, weight, hormones and lifestyle. Please note that results are not permanent solutions and will change as your body changes over the years. After you consult with Team MZ, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
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