BLEPHAROPLASTY

Upper blepharoplasty

This is an operation to lift the eyelid skin. It can be done as a standalone procedure to rejuvenate the eyes, or in conjunction with other procedures such as lower blepharoplasty, brow lift and / or face lift. 

 

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Why have upper blepharoplasty

As we age, our upper lid skin can become saggy and droopy. This is unsightly and looks ageing. Patients also complain that their eyes feel heavy. Women often noticed that they have problems applying eyeshadow in that area. 

 

Surgery to lift the upper eyelid can result in a fresher look, with people commenting that you look well rested.

 

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How is the operation done

The operation can be done under local or general anaesthetic. A cut is made in the natural skin crease of the upper eyelid. Excess skin is removed, sometimes with a strip of muscle if necessary. Occasionally bulging fat also needed to be trimmed, however this is kept to a minimal as removing too much fat results in a sunken look of the eye, conversely looking even more ageing. 

 

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Does it hurt

After the local anaesthetic wears off, there might be some mild discomfort initially. The surgery is not associated with excessive pain. However it is not uncommon to have some dry and gritty sensation of the eyes for a few days. Lubricating ointment will help to ease this, and will be prescribed for you to take home. 

 

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After the operation

Do expect some swelling and bruising for the next couple of weeks. Regular cold compress will help with the swelling. Contact lens and makeup around the eyes should be avoided for 2 weeks. Refrain from exercise and heavy lifting for 4 weeks. 

 

The stitches will be removed within 5 to 7 days. 

 

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How long do I have to be off work

You can return to work within a week to 10 days when majority of the swelling and bruising have subsided.

 

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Possible complications

As with any other surgery, scarring takes a while to settle, and infection can occur in the operated site. 

The most important complication of the surgery is bleeding post-operatively. Minor bleeding can be stopped with simple pressure and ice packs. Occasionally returning to theatre to deal with the bleeding is necessary. Very rarely, the bleeding can accumulate behind the eyeball, in this instance causing an emergency as pressure on the eyeball can lead to blindness. This would necessitate an immediate return to theatre.

 

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Post op Instructions

• You may be prescribed antibiotic ointment. Apply twice a day

• Eye lubricant can be used regularly to prevent dry eyes feeling

• Keep your head elevated during sleep to reduce swelling

• Use cold compresses to manage swelling (e.g. gel masks or ice wrapped in towel)

• Ice for 10 minutes every hour in the first few days

• Avoid alcohol or smoking during the initial recovery period

• Avoid physical activities such as exercise, heavy lifting for 4 weeks

• Don’t strain your eyes in the first few days: avoid reading, television or computer screens

• Leave contact lens out for 2 weeks

• Avoid eye creams or face creams initially

• You can shower or wash your hair the day after surgery, but keep water, soap and shampoo out of your eye, especially for the first week

• Avoid swimming, hot tubs, gardening or dusting for 1-2 weeks

• Wear sunglasses on bright days for 1 year after surgery