Upper eyelid surgery - Blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, is a popular surgical procedure aimed at rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes. With age, the skin around the eyes loses elasticity, which can lead to loosening of the eyelids and an optical reduction of the eyes. This procedure can significantly improve the aesthetics of the face and restore a youthful appearance.
Indications
Blepharoplasty of the upper eyelids is suitable for those who struggle with a tired appearance of the eyes, which often gives the face an older and less fresh look. This problem is often caused by sagging upper eyelid skin, which not only affects the aesthetics of the face but can also lead to practical difficulties. Many patients complain of excessive watery eyes, heavy eyelids or even headaches due to the constant tension of the frontal muscles when trying to open the eyes wider.
The procedure itself involves removing excess skin and fatty bags, which not only rejuvenates the face but also widens the field of vision and improves the quality of vision. This surgical procedure thus brings not only aesthetic, but also practical benefits that significantly increase the patient's comfort.
Together with the upper eyelids, it is also possible to perform lower eyelid surgery, which makes it possible to achieve a harmonious and youthful appearance of the entire eye area. If you are troubled by these difficulties, arrange a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experts will help you find the most suitable solution to suit your needs.
Procedure
Prior to the procedure, a consultation is held during which the doctor will carefully assess your health and discuss your expectations and goals for the surgery. This step is essential to ensure safety and an optimal outcome. The consultation includes:
- Medical history: inform the doctor of any medications you are taking, any allergies, and any health problems that could affect the course of the procedure or your recovery.
- Instructions for preparation: your doctor may ask you to discontinue blood thinners such as Acylpyrine, Aspirin, Anopyrine, Stacyl, or Warfarin at least 5 days before your scheduled surgery.
During the consultation you will learn all the necessary information about the procedure, its possible risks and expected results. The ophthalmologist will explain in detail whether the procedure is suitable for you and explain the entire procedure, including the type of anaesthesia. At this appointment, you will also have space for all your questions, which the doctor will be happy to answer.
On the day of the procedure, it is important to avoid using make-up and oily face creams to keep your skin clean and ready for surgery. After the procedure, it is recommended to have sunglasses on hand to help protect your eyes from bright light and outside influences during your trip home.
Consistent preparation for surgery and careful adherence to the doctor's instructions play a key role in ensuring the procedure goes smoothly and minimizes the risk of potential complications. Also, do not underestimate the importance of the consultation, which is a necessary step in achieving a satisfying and successful outcome.
Progress of surgery
Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, is a precise procedure that can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent and combination of procedures. The upper eyelid procedure usually takes 45 to 90 minutes and involves the removal of excess skin, muscle or fat bags. The surgeon makes small incisions in the natural creases of the eyelids, minimizing the visibility of scars. After removing the excess tissue, the surgeon gently reshapes the circular eye muscle and other structures to restore the youthful contour of the eye. The incisions are then sutured with fine stitches, which are removed after a week. The resulting scar is naturally hidden in the crease of the eyelid.
The lower eyelids require a similar approach. The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes and focuses on removing fat bags, known as "bags under the eyes," and excess skin. The incisions are usually made just below the lash line, ensuring that the scars remain nearly invisible. Alternatively, the laser method can be used, which does not require incisions but is often performed under general anesthesia. The laser method can reduce the healing time, but its use depends on the individual assessment of the doctor. In cases where upper and lower eyelid surgery is combined, the procedure can be extended to 1.5 hours and is often performed under general anesthesia to ensure maximum patient comfort. This combined approach can achieve total rejuvenation of the eye area.
Healing and care
After upper eyelid surgery, it is natural to experience mild swelling and bruising. These symptoms are a normal part of the healing process and need not be feared. The most intense phase occurs during the first two to three days after the procedure, when swelling and discoloration of the eye area may be more pronounced. These symptoms will then gradually begin to subside, usually within one to two weeks. The severity of the swelling and bruising can vary depending on individual factors such as age, health or compliance with the doctor's recommendations.
Cooling and sleep mode
Regular cooling of the eye area is recommended to reduce swelling and speed up healing, for example by using cool gel pads or gently applied cold compresses. Cooling should be applied at short intervals several times a day as recommended by the doctor. In addition, it is essential to follow a resting regime, which involves minimising physical activity, especially that which could increase blood pressure in the head. This means avoiding, for example, bending over, lifting heavy objects or intense sports.
Scar care
Small scars are left after the procedure and are usually located in the natural crease of the eyelid, ensuring minimal visibility. To achieve the best possible aesthetic result, it is important to take proper care of the scars. Protecting them from sunlight is key, as UV rays can negatively affect the healing process and cause scars to darken or worsen in appearance. Wearing sunglasses with a good quality UV filter is recommended, especially during the first few weeks after surgery. If the doctor recommends the use of special healing creams or silicone scar patches, it is advisable to use them according to his instructions.
Gradual recovery
The healing period usually lasts several weeks, during which the body adapts to the changes made. During this period, it is important to be patient and respect the doctor's instructions, for example, regarding eye hygiene, application of any ointments or drops and limiting the use of cosmetics in the eye area. Initially, you may experience some slight tension or tenderness in the eye area, which is normal and will subside as healing progresses.
Return to normal activities
Most patients return to normal daily activities within one to two weeks, however, full recovery can take up to several months. However, the results of the surgery, such as a rejuvenated appearance and elimination of the tired feeling in the eyes, are noticeable after just a few weeks. It is good to keep in mind that the healing process is individual and therefore the length of recovery may vary.
With consistent care and adherence to all recommendations, an optimal result can be achieved that not only improves appearance, but often also increases self-confidence and quality of life. Upper eyelid surgery is a procedure that produces long-lasting results, and the healing period is a natural part of the journey to a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Risks and complications
Although blepharoplasty is generally considered a safe procedure, it is important to remember that, as with any other surgery, there are certain risks and potential complications. Thanks to modern surgical techniques and a careful approach, these complications are rather rare, but it is good to know what can occur and how to prevent them.
The most common complications and their solutions
After surgery, you may experience temporary drying of the eyes or, on the contrary, excessive tearing. These conditions are common and usually disappear within a few weeks. To alleviate these symptoms, your doctor will recommend appropriate eye drops to help hydrate and regenerate the eye mucosa.
Less common complications include ectropion, which is a condition where the conjunctiva is pulled away from the eye or the eyelid rolls over, causing watering and a foreign body sensation in the eye. This problem can be caused by swelling after the procedure, and once the swelling subsides, the condition usually goes away. Another possible phenomenon is non-opening of the eye slit during sleep, but this is usually temporary and will correct itself during recovery. Any dry eye sensation can be easily addressed with drops recommended by your doctor.
Oculocardiac reflex and surgical complications
During surgery, the so-called oculocardial reflex, which is a reaction triggered by pressure on the eye, may occur. It is manifested by a slight drop in blood pressure and a slowing of the heart rate. However, this condition is usually only temporary and does not cause serious problems. The surgeon is prepared for this situation and handles it immediately.
Rarely, wound spacing may occur after suture removal, which is usually caused by failure to follow medical recommendations, for example, frequent touching of the unhealed scar. For this reason, it is very important that the operated area remains quiet and that the patient takes care of hygiene and minimises the risk of infection.
Prevention of complications and emphasis on postoperative care
To minimize risks, it is crucial to follow all of the doctor's recommendations before and after the procedure. This includes, for example, not taking blood thinners before surgery, cooling the eye area regularly after surgery, and carefully protecting scars from sunlight.
Consultation as the key to success
If you are considering blepharoplasty, we strongly recommend that you first have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the doctor will evaluate your medical condition, answer any questions, and tailor the procedure to your individual needs. With careful preparation, proper execution, and responsible follow-up care, the risk of complications can be minimized and results can be achieved that contribute to your satisfaction and improved quality of life.
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