Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Explained
Blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as eyelid surgery, is an operation that removes excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids that tightens the skin and soft tissue around the eyes. With this in mind, it is not surprising that blepharoplasty is also commonly referred to as eyelid surgery.
The topic of blepharoplasty often comes up with people as they age. What happens is that through the natural ageing process, skin loses its elasticity and this includes the skin of the eyelids. As the eyelid skin elasticity diminishes, gravity results in eyelids sagging.
Aside from the aesthetics of eyelids sagging, the upper eyelid can sag sufficiently to obscure vision, and if this is happening, then blepharoplasty will tighten the skin of the upper-eyelid so that it no longer interferes with vision.
In the case of the lower eyelid, the loss of elasticity causes the lower eyelid to sag, wrinkles to form, and puffiness. So, for this, eyelid surgery rejuvenates facial aesthetics, reducing the signs of ageing. As such, blepharoplasty is a popular cosmetic procedure.
More information about blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) usually takes an hour to 90 minutes to perform; so it’s a relatively quick procedure.
An upper-eyelid blepharoplasty is typically performed under a local anaesthetic that is injected in your eyelids. Our doctor, Dr Fotouhi will make a cut on the natural skin crease just above your eyelid and will remove any excess skin and fat that is pushing through the muscle.
- A lower-eyelid blepharoplasty is performed under a local or anaesthesia or deep sedation. Depending upon your cosmetic needs, Dr Fotouhi will use different approaches to this surgery, including transcutaneous lower eyelid surgery or lower eyelid Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty (with fat transposition). Your operation will be explained to you in details during your initial consultation.
Dr Fotouhi will make a cut along the rim of your eyelid below your eyelashes or through your conjunctiva (internally) to just beyond the outside edge of your eye. He will remove any excess skin, and remove or redistribute any fat that is pushing through the muscle (fat transposition).
How long does it take to recover from Blepharoplasty?
After your blepharoplasty eyelid surgery procedure, you will be instructed not to bend or do excessive exercises for the first week. In addition to this, eye make-up is not to be worn, you should not drink alcohol for 2-3 weeks, and you should keep your face out of the sun.
The results of blepharoplasty is long-lasting and can last for up to 10 years.
How much is blepharoplasty?
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Upper eyelid Blepharoplasty: from $3000
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Lower eyelid Blepharoplasty: from $3500
Please note: For the patients whose visual field is affected by their heavy eyelids, there might be a possibility of medicare rebate for their procedure for up to 100%. Please talk to your Doctor for further information.
Dr Fotouhi welcomes any questions you may have regarding fees. You can book your complementary blepharoplasty consultation by contacting our surgery on 5911 7014 or 9070 0953.
What complications can happen from blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is like any other surgery, where some complications can be serious and can even cause death.
Common complications include:
- pain
- bleeding
- infection
Less common (specific) complications include:
- too much skin is removed
- swelling of the conjunctiva
- bleeding into your eye socket
- cornea abrasion
- double vision
- cosmetic issues
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Where can I have the blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) procedure?
Dr Fotouhi performs Blepharoplasty (eyelid Surgery) in his rooms at Elite Medical Centre, based on the Mornington Peninsular at Mornington.