The ideal candidates to perform a blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery are physically and psychologically healthy men and women, with a realistic approach to their expectations regarding this surgery. This operation is usually performed after the age of 35, although it is possible to operate earlier if there is a family history of drooping eyelids.
Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is a procedure to remove fat (usually with excess skin and muscle) from the upper and lower eyelids. Its performance can correct the fall of the upper eyelids and the lower eyelid pockets. However, it will not remove wrinkles around your eyes, or dark circles under your eyes, nor raise your eyebrows. If you are thinking about a blepharoplasty, this section will give you basic information about the procedure. However you will not be able to answer all your questions, as these depend on each patient and the surgeon.
The first interview with your surgeon is very important. Your entire medical history will be required, especially in the case of allergies or if you are taking any medications. Your surgeon may recommend an ophthalmologic and lacrimal production review. You will need to decide if you need to operate the upper and lower eyelids or just one of them. Your surgeon will explain the techniques and anesthesia that are generally used, as well as the risks and costs involved in the operation.
The blepharoplasty lasts approximately 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the surgery. If you are going to operate the upper and lower eyelids, your surgeon will probably start with the upper and then the lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery is usually performed with local anesthesia, which will “sleep” the eye contour, although in some cases the use of sedatives, combined with local anesthesia is preferable. Before the procedure, the surgeon marks the sites where the incisions will be made, following the natural lines of the eye and the folds of the upper and lower eyelids. Through these incisions, the excess of accumulated fat and even some skin and muscle will be removed. Once the process is completed, the incisions are closed with a very fine internal suture.
After the operation, your eyes will be lubricated by a dressing. You should have your head elevated using cold compresses for inflammation and a painkiller that the surgeon prescribes for pain and discomfort. The surgeon will teach you to wipe your eyes, which may be stuck and dry for a week, after that, the stitches will be removed and you will start to look and feel much better. Most patients return to their activities in a week or ten days. Depending on your recovery status and your doctor’s instructions, you can use make-up to conceal the bruises that may remain. You will be sensitive to sunlight, wind and other agents for several weeks and you should wear sunglasses as well as a sunscreen when you go outside. You will be advised to reduce your activities to a minimum of 3 to 5 days and avoid violent exercise for three weeks. You should not drink alcohol and / or consume salty products, as this will cause fluid retention.
The recovery is gradual and possibly your scars will take a pinkish hue for 6 months or more after the surgery, but will gradually become a thin and almost invisible white line. Afterwards, your eyelids will be soft and firm. You will have a more lively and joyful look that will last you years and even, these results can be permanent.
Plastic surgeon, aesthetic and reconstructive
Professional license: 4078621
Certificate of specialty: 8536540
