What is surgical blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery technique that removes dark circles and tightens the skin of the upper and lower eyelids.

Eyelids are rapidly affected by skin aging. Because their skin is so thin, it wrinkles as the fat between the eyelids and the orbital bone melts away. This leads to the appearance of hollow circles and cavities under the eyes. Excess skin is also visible. This is often associated with ptosis of the upper eyelid, which descends over the eye due to weakness of the levator muscle.

Addition blepharoplasty involves lipofilling and resection of excess skin. Fat cells are extracted from the abdomen and the back of the knees. They are then cleaned and defibroised, before being injected into the lower eyelids to thicken the skin and fill dark circles. Next, an incision is made in the upper palpebral crease to remove excess skin from the upper eyelids. The surgeon uses a laser scalpel to prevent bleeding.

Alternatively, a pinch blepharoplasty can be performed to rejuvenate the lower eyelids. The skin is pinched and the excess removed. Unlike conventional blepharoplasty, the subcutaneous tissues are not detached. The nerves and orbicularis muscle are spared entirely, preventing any complications.

Lastly, the removal of bags involves the removal of fat hernias located under the eyelids. This procedure is performed transconjunctivally, so that the scar is concealed inside the eyelids.

Who needs eyelid surgery?

Blepharoplasty is one of the most widely performed cosmetic surgery procedures. It can be performed as soon as sagging skin around the eyes or dark circles appear. There are no age limits; it can be performed from the age of 35-40. It should be noted, however, that there are no medical indications for blepharoplasty. It is a purely aesthetic procedure. The decision to undergo blepharoplasty is left entirely to the patient’s discretion.

There are no contraindications to blepharoplasty, apart from the rare complications associated with the application of anesthesia. As a precaution, the procedure is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women.

What is the recovery period after blepharoplasty?

The after-effects of the operation depend on the type of technique used. The procedure is not painful, as it is performed under anesthesia. However, the skin may be sensitive after fat removal.

Blepharoplasty involves making an incision. While this leaves a discreet scar, it is advisable to avoid all physical activity for two to three weeks, while the scar heals. Social avoidance is also required for ten days after surgery.

How can I avoid bruising after blepharoplasty?

Bruising may appear after the operation. These disappear within a few days. Here are a few tips to speed up the process.

First and foremost, it is advisable not to take anti-coagulant or anti-inflammatory drugs before and after surgery, to reduce skin inflammation and prevent bruising. It is also advisable to apply ice compresses to the treated area, as the cold reduces blood flow and thus minimizes bruising.