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Pros and Cons of Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery

Written by aesthetic content writer Catherine. Reviewed by Medical Director Dr. Sabrina Shah-Desai
Published on: September 1, 2024
Blepharoplasty

The eyes are often considered windows to the soul, and as we age, those windows can start to show some wear and tear. As people grow older, the skin around their eyes stretches, and the muscles weaken. Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, helps people look younger by removing excess skin from their eyelids. Eyelid surgery can also fix any sagging or drooping around the eyes and improve vision.

But, is blepharoplasty right for you? Here are some of the top pros and cons mentioned in the blog so you can make an informed decision.

Pros Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery

  • Long-Lasting Results

Blepharoplasty provides long-lasting results. While ageing will continue, the improvements from the surgery can last for many years. Some patients find that this surgery helps to find long-lasting results and do not need further sessions in the future.

  • Provide a More Youthful Look

Many people choose to have eyelid surgery to look younger. As we get older, our eyes can start to look tired, sad, or angry. Eyelid surgery can revive the suppleness of your eyes.

  • Minimal Scarring

The incisions made during blepharoplasty are typically small and strategically placed within the natural folds of the eyelids, making scars less noticeable. With proper care, these scars can fade significantly over time.

  • Quick Recovery Time

Compared to other cosmetic surgeries, blepharoplasty generally has a shorter recovery period. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week to ten days, and complete healing usually occurs within a few months.

  • Customisable Solutions

Eyelid surgery can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, addressing specific concerns such as hooded eyelids, under-eye bags, and loose skin.

  • Improved Vision

Loose or sagging skin on the upper eyelids can obstruct vision, and eyelid surgery can tighten it to restore unobstructed vision.

  • Short Recovery Time

While it’s recommended to set aside two weeks of downtime, many individuals may feel ready to return to work or attend social events sooner, as the blepharoplasty recovery is often straightforward and uneventful.

Cons of Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery

  • Surgical Risks

As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty carries risks. Some potential problems include infection, bleeding, scarring, and bad reactions to anaesthesia. In rare cases, more serious complications, such as blurred vision or damage to the eye muscles, may occur. Although complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of them.

  • Recovery Discomfort

Post-surgery, patients may experience discomfort, swelling, bruising, and temporary vision changes. While these side effects are typically short-lived, they can be problematic and uncomfortable during the initial recovery period.

  • Requirement of Additional Surgery

The results of eyelid surgery don’t last forever, so you might need more surgery in the future to deal with new signs of ageing around your eyes. Even though injectable fillers are an option, eyelid surgery is suggested as a better long-term solution.

  • Swelling and Bruising

It’s important to note that swelling and bruising are normal after undergoing blepharoplasty surgery. These side effects are typically mild and temporary. 

  • Dry Eye and Irritation

Some individuals may experience dry eyes or irritation following the surgery. However, these effects are usually temporary and can be managed with the guidance of medical professionals.

  • Long-Term Maintenance

While the results of the surgery can provide a more awake and refreshed look for many years, it’s important to remember that the natural ageing process will continue. Ensuring the longevity of the results involves simple measures such as wearing sunscreen and avoiding nicotine.

  • Unrealistic Expectations

It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of blepharoplasty. While it can significantly improve your appearance, it won’t stop the ageing process. Discuss your desired results openly with your surgeon.

What You Can Expect With Eyelid Surgery?

Doing eyelid surgery can help people see better and look younger. The results can last a long time but might not last forever. It’s usually only necessary if the extra skin on someone’s eyelids is really bad and is making it hard for them to see.

When you have eyelid surgery, you can expect a significant improvement in the look of your eyes. Most people see a noticeable difference right away, with full results appearing as swelling and bruising go away over a few weeks.

Recovery from eyelid surgery is usually quick. You might feel some discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few days, but these effects will fade. Many people return to their normal activities within 10 to 14 days

Know More about Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in detail.

Final Thoughts

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, like all other procedures, has pros and cons. Before considering getting one, it is important to explore the options and know their good and bad sides.

At Perfect Eyes Ltd., Dr. Sabrina Shah-Desai along with her team, offers multiple eyelid treatments to help you look and feel your best. They use the latest techniques and technologies to minimise scarring and deliver long-lasting results. 

Whether you’re considering eyelid surgery, ptosis surgery, or other treatments, you can trust that you’re in good hands at Perfect Eyes Ltd. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common problems after eyelid surgery?

Potential issues:

– Temporary Dry, uncomfortable eyes.

– Temporary Visible scarring.

– Skin discoloration.

– Temporary blurry vision 

 

2. Am I a good candidate for eyelid surgery?

Good candidates are generally healthy, non-smokers who have realistic expectations and are experiencing issues like droopy eyelids, puffiness, or vision obstruction due to excess eyelid skin.

 

3. How long does treatment take?

Eyelid surgery usually takes between 1-2 hours, depending on whether both upper and lower lids are being treated.

 

4. Is the procedure painful?

The surgery itself is not painful due to anaesthesia. Post-surgery, you may experience some tightness and discomfort, but it is typically manageable with prescribed pain medication.

 

5. How long is the recovery period?

Most people can return to normal activities within a week to ten days, but complete healing and final results can take a few months.

 

6. Will there be visible scars?

The incisions are made in the natural folds of the eyelids, making scars less noticeable. With proper care, scars will fade significantly over time.

 

7. Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?

Yes, eyelid surgery is often combined with other procedures such as facelifts, brow lifts, or laser skin resurfacing for a more holistic facial rejuvenation.

 

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