The eyelids are a delicate and sensitive part of the human body. As such, it is essential to remember this when considering getting eyelid surgery. Blepharoplasty, which is the scientific name for eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that can help improve the appearance of your eyelids. These surgeries can be perfect for some people, but they also come with risks and side effects that you should know about before making your decision.
These surgeries are done for several reasons, such as correcting drooping eyelids, improving the appearance of scars or bags under the eyes, and even removing excess skin that may be present. However, it’s not always easy to know when it’s the right time to consult a doctor for these services, but this article can help you decide.
Cost of Eyelid Surgeries
This is a major factor that you must consider when looking into having this type of surgery. The cost varies depending on the location, severity of your case, and what exactly needs correction or improvement. In most cases, it will run anywhere from $4000 – $6000, but these costs don’t include fees associated with consultation, blood work/tests, anesthesia, and follow-up appointments. Hence, be sure to check all prices before making a decision.
Procedure for Eyelid Surgeries
The procedure for this type of service can vary depending on what exactly it is that needs correction or improvement. However, there are some things they all have in common:
The Use of Anesthesia
All surgeries require sedation, at the very least. This means that you will be put to sleep during these procedures so that surgeons can work without any interruptions from pain receptors throughout your body. Doctors may recommend general anesthesia instead, depending on the severity of the case. This anesthesia renders patients unconscious while minimizing pain response and memory loss following surgery.
The Surgical Process
Typically, the surgeon will often begin by working on your upper eyelids for individuals having double eyelid surgeries. Then, the doctor removes the saggy skin or fat by making an incision on the lining and then sealing the wound. The surgeon performs a similar procedure on the lower eyelid by creating an incision directly below the lashes. The process that follows involves the redistribution or removal of any excess fat.
Surgeons may use ptosis to treat upper eyelid drooping near the pupil. This particular treatment is essential as it offers extra support to the muscles surrounding the eyebrows.
Recovery Time
Eyelid surgeries take time to recover from. For instance, the swelling and bruising around the eyes can last for some time (usually 1-3 weeks) after surgery. However, attainment of full recovery may take up to three months. In most cases, you’ll need two weeks off work for the pain to reduce, but that may vary depending on your occupation.
Individuals who undergo ptosis treatment may notice a significant difference in how their eyelids lower after making a downward gaze. In other cases, the eyelids of these individuals may fail to fully close when they’re sleeping. Such scenarios require immediate medical intervention by visiting the nearest doctor. Moisturizing the eyes helps in the full recovery process by putting drops or gels.
Scarring
It’s common for eyelid surgeries to leave scars. However, surgeons can make these scars as inconspicuous as possible thanks to modern techniques. In many cases, the scars are often hidden in the eyelids’ natural creases. Upper eyelid surgery scars are almost undetectable in the majority of situations.
There are several tips that help in the fast healing of the scars after the surgery. They include:
• Non-exposure of the scars directly to sunlight.
• Avoidance of any form of smoking or exposure to smoke.
• Applying sunscreen as often as possible.
• Following the doctor’s prescription in terms of creams and ointments.
Risks from the Surgery
Eyelid surgeries come with some risks, just like any other surgical procedure. Eyelid surgeries have risks such as:
• Infections.
• Excessive bleeding.
• Blindness
• Eyes dryness
• Issues with closing the eyes.
• Sunlight sensitivity.
• Injury resulting from anesthesia given through IV where tubes have been inserted.
The surgeon will discuss with you the above risks in detail before you accept the surgical process.
Who Cannot Have This Surgery?
There are some individuals who cannot have eyelid surgeries. This includes those who suffer from:
• Autoimmune diseases such as Lupus
• Thyroid problems
• Bleeding disorders such as hemophilia
• Diabetes
Be sure to tell your doctor before scheduling surgery if you have a history of any of these conditions. They will then be able to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure or not.
Average Age for Eyelid Surgery
The age at which people have these surgeries depends on their reasons for having them. Some opt to go through with this service due to aging and natural causes, while others do so as a preventative measure against signs of aging they may see in the future. In either case, average patients tend to be over 40 years per the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
How Helpful is this Procedure?
Eyelid surgery is very helpful for some people with certain health conditions such as conjunctivitis. So, what are the benefits for double eyelid surgery?
• Improved appearance for people with monolids (no double eyelid crease)
• Improvement in drooping or sagging lid that can result from age, fatigue, and heredity factors. Such hereditary factors include having fuller eyelids than others in your family line. This is a recommendable option for those who seek to look more youthful and refreshed.
• Change the size or shape of eyes by making them bigger or smaller depending on your personal desires.
• Adjust the position of your eyes by pulling them closer together or further apart.
• Eyelid surgery can also be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as a brow lift, neck liposuction, and more to maximize overall benefits.