Can I continue to wear my corrective lenses after blepharoplasty?

What is blepharoplasty in eye surgery?

Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that treats defects of the upper and lower eyelids. There are several types of blepharoplasty, depending on the patient’s needs and wishes:

Lower blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty is performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs. The surgeon operates transconjunctivally, that is, inside the lower eyelid, to remove excess fat or skin.

Upper blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty is performed under local anaesthetic. The surgeon operates on the upper eyelid to remove the excess skin that is causing discomfort, as well as the internal fat pad of the upper eyelid. After the operation, the scars are hidden in the natural eyelid crease, and are ultimately concealed to the naked eye. Sutures are required for this type of blepharoplasty and are removed by the surgeon a few days after the operation.

Addition blepharoplasty or lipofilling

Addition blepharoplasty involves micro-grafting fat (lipofilling) into the lower or upper eyelid. This technique is the opposite of the two above: it fills rather than removes. The fat is first harvested from another area of the patient’s body (liposuction). The aim of addition blepharoplasty is to harmonize the volumes of the eyelids by filling in hollow areas.

Pinch blepharoplasty

Pinch blepharoplasty is a minimally invasive technique. It consists in pinching off the excess skin, or the bag, usually found on the lower eyelid.

Who can benefit from this eye rejuvenation procedure?

There is no age limit for blepharoplasty. Apart from major medical problems, it is suitable for adults over the age of 18 who wish to enhance the beauty of their eyes. Note that when a very young patient has a blepharoplasty, the effects of ageing may later call for a repeat operation.

The average age of blepharoplasty patients is between 40 and 50. For the effects of the procedure to be long-lasting, it is recommended that it be performed after the age of 35.

Blepharoplasty is suitable for people with disabling eyelid conditions, as well as for patients who wish to counter the first signs of ageing and fatigue.

Can I wear corrective contact lenses after blepharoplasty?

Patients having eyelid surgery can wear corrective lenses, or contact lenses, up until the operation. During and after the operation, wearing them is not advisable. You need to wait about two weeks after the operation before wearing contact lenses again, which is why patients are advised to wear their glasses in the meantime.

It is vital to avoid touching the operated area, to ensure proper healing of the eyelids and prevent infection. Contact lenses can also dry out the eyes and eyelids, causing discomfort and a stinging sensation after blepharoplasty.