Eyelid Surgery

What is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, muscle and fat tissues in the upper and lower eyelids, making the eye area look younger and more dynamic. It can be performed for both aesthetic and functional purposes.

Eyelid surgery for aesthetic purposes is especially effective in eliminating the following complaints.

• Sagging eyelids and skin folds due to ageing
• Under-eye bags and swelling
• Asymmetrical eyelids
• Low upper eyelid (ptosis)

Functional eyelid surgery is preferred to eliminate complaints such as droopy upper eyelid, eye dryness and irritation, eye fatigue and headache that interfere with the visual field.

What is Droopy Eyelid and Why Does It Occur?

A droopy eyelid is a condition in which the upper eyelid is lower than its normal position. It can affect one or both eyes and can significantly affect vision. A droopy eyelid is also known as ptosis.

There can be many different causes of droopy eyelid. The most common causes are the following:

• Some babies are born with ptosis because the muscle that lifts the eyelid is weak or underdeveloped.
• With age, the muscles and tendons that hold the eyelid weaken, which can cause the eyelid to droop.
• Injury to the eye area as a result of an accident or impact can cause droopy eyelids.
• Some neurological disorders affecting the third nerve or brain nerves can cause ptosis.
• Some medical conditions such as diabetes, muscular dystrophy and Graves’ disease can also cause droopy eyelids.

The most obvious symptom of droopy eyelid is that one or both eyelids are lower than their normal position. Other symptoms include eye fatigue, itching or irritation of the eyes, headache, difficulty seeing when looking down, raising the eyebrows to keep the eyelid open and double vision.

Treatment for droopy eyelids depends on the underlying cause. Mild cases of ptosis may not require treatment. However, a perfect appearance can still be achieved with eyelid aesthetics. In more severe cases, eyelid surgery may be required to lift the eyelid.

How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?

Eyelid surgery involves the removal of sagging skin, bags and excess fatty tissue on the upper and lower eyelids. It is a popular aesthetic procedure for people who want to achieve a more youthful and alert appearance.

Before deciding on eyelid surgery, it is important to meet with an eye surgeon. The surgeon will review your medical history, examine your eyes and eyelids, and determine the most appropriate procedure for you.

He or she will provide information about the risks and benefits of the surgery and give you pre- and postoperative instructions. Eyelid surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic, but in some cases general anaesthetic may be required.

The surgeon will make an incision through the natural fold in the upper eyelid or just below the base of the eyelashes in the lower eyelid. Excess skin, muscle and fatty tissue are then removed and the remaining skin is stretched. The incisions are closed with sutures and the eyes are covered with a sterile bandage.

After the operation, you may experience swelling, bruising and discomfort in the eyes. However, these symptoms usually disappear within a few days. Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to use painkillers and ice packs. You will also receive special instructions to keep your eyes clean and prevent infection.

How Many Days Does Eyelid Surgery Heal?

Although the healing process after eyelid surgery may vary from person to person, it usually takes between 7 and 14 days. The first few days are the most intense time for swelling and bruising. These symptoms begin to decrease within a week and disappear completely within two weeks.

The stitches are usually removed after 7 to 10 days. Full recovery and final results may take a month. Especially during this time, your eyes may be sensitive and should be protected against sunlight.

How Much Is Eyelid Surgery Price?

Eyelid surgery price varies depending on the underlying cause and the operation to be performed. The treatment plan to be created by our specialist ophthalmologist depending on the detailed examination results may vary from person to person.

Please click here for appointment and price information.

The above information is for informational purposes. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please make an appointment with our ophthalmologists.