Why would I have eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to correct droopy eyelids. It involves removing excess skin, muscle, and fat in the eye region. As you age, your skin gradually loses its elasticity and causes excess fat to gather above and below your eyelids. Eyelid surgery can be an option if you have:
- Droopy and baggy upper eyelids
- Sagging upper eyelids that get in the way of your peripheral vision
- Bags under your eyes
- Excess skin on your lower eyelids
You can also choose to undergo eyelid surgery at the same time as another cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift, brow lift, or skin resurfacing.
What are the benefits of having eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery has both aesthetic and functional benefits. It can help both men and women improve their appearance and remove visual obstructions caused by sagging skin on the upper eyelids. Eyelid surgery can give you a more youthful appearance, make you look more alert, and less tired. For many people, the results of eyelid surgery boost their confidence and self-esteem. In addition, if your sagging upper eyelids cause sight problems, eyelid surgery can improve your vision
What is the recovery time?
After one week, you should be able to return to your normal activities, including exercise, swimming, working, and heavy lifting. If you use contact lenses, it is important to not put them for about two weeks after your surgery. Your doctor will give you a specific recovery timeline.
How long will I need to stay in the hospital after my procedure?
Eyelid surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Immediately after your surgery, you will spend time in a recovery room where your doctor monitors your conditions. If no complications arise, you can leave the hospital on the same day to recuperate at your hotel.
How long should I expect to stay overseas after my procedure?
You need to stay overseas until your doctor allows you to travel home. The recommended length of stay is 7 to 10 days. During your stay overseas, you will attend a follow-up check-up where your doctor removes your stitches and monitor the progress of your healing.
What aftercare should I take into consideration?
Your surgeon will give you post-operative instructions, make sure to follow them closely. During your recovery period, avoid straining, heavy lifting, strenuous activities, smoking, and rubbing your eyes. Since you may experience pain and discomfort, your doctor may prescribe painkillers or you can take over-the-counter acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) to help control the pain.
What’s the success rate like?
Eyelid surgery is a highly successful procedure, especially when performed by a skilled, board-certified surgeon. Most people are satisfied with the result of their eyelid surgery. Although very rare, the complications of eyelid surgery may include irritated eyes, bleeding, infection, dry eyes, noticeable scarring, eyelid problems, temporary blurred vision or loss of eyesight, recurring drooping eyelids, and blood clots.
Are there alternatives?
If you don’t want to go under the knife but you want to enjoy the benefits of eyelid surgery, you can consider the non-invasive alternatives which are Botulinum toxin (Botox) injection, HIFU, Ulthera, and laser treatment.