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 patients’ needs and desires:

Lower blepharoplasty

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

Upper blepharoplasty

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

Addition blepharoplasty or lipofilling

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

Pinch blepharoplasty

Pinch blepharoplasty is a minimally invasive technique. This procedure involves pinching off the excess skin, or pocket, 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, blepharoplasty is suitable for adults over the age of 18 who wish to enhance the beauty of their eyes. It’s important to note that when a very young patient undergoes blepharoplasty, it’s possible that the effects of aging may later lead to a repeat operation.

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

Blepharoplasty is suitable for people suffering from eyelid-disabling diseases, as well as for patients wishing to combat the first signs of ageing and fatigue.

Can I wear corrective contact lenses after blepharoplasty?

Patients undergoing eyelid surgery may wear corrective lenses (or contact lenses) until the operation. During and after the operation, it is not advisable to wear corrective lenses. It is necessary to wait about two weeks after the operation before wearing contact lenses again. For this reason, patients are advised to wear functional glasses during the operation.

Indeed, it’s vital to avoid touching the operated area to ensure proper healing of the eyelids and prevent possible infections. In addition, contact lenses can dry out the eyes and eyelids, causing discomfort and a stinging sensation after blepharoplasty.