Eyelid lift surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, can alter the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids.
It can be either be performed for aesthetic reasons or to improve functionality, as sometimes the eyelids may obstruct vision. The procedure can involve removing excess skin, fat, or muscle from the upper or lower eyelids.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the further details of eyelid surgery, including why and how it can be performed, and how to know if you’re a suitable candidate.
To learn more about the procedure and discuss your personal suitability, you are welcome to reach out to our team to book your consultation with Dr Laniewski in Sydney and Central Coast. Dr Laniewski can assess your needs and carefully plan the details of your eyelid lift procedure.
Why do patients undergo eyelid lift surgery?
A common reason that patients undergo eyelid lift surgery is to address changes that can occur with age. As we age, gravity and the gradual loss of skin elasticity can cause changes in the skin and muscles of the eyelids.
One of the most common reasons for eyelid surgery is excess skin on the upper eyelids. For some, this extra skin can reach a point where it interferes with vision, particularly peripheral vision. This can be more noticeable while reading or looking at something closer up. This can make the eyelids feel physically weighed down and obstruct vision. A blepharoplasty (particularly performed on the upper eyelid) can lift the eye, altering the appearance of the eyes and possibly improving vision.
Since the skin around the eyes is particularly thin and delicate, it can be prone to developing wrinkles and fine lines. Depending on the condition of the skin around the eyes, an eyelid lift may reduce the appearance of wrinkles by removing excess tissue.
Fat deposits beneath the lower eyelids may also contribute to puffiness or under-eye bags over time. A lower blepharoplasty can address this tissue, removing a portion of the excess fat.
While these can be common reasons for opting for eyelid surgery, every patient may have their own personal reasons for undergoing the procedure. The procedure can be personalised to suit the needs of each patient, making the results of the procedure entirely individualised.
How is upper and lower eyelid surgery performed?
As mentioned above, eyelid lift surgery can refer to either upper or lower blepharoplasty. The procedures can be performed separately as standalone procedures or combined to be performed at the same time.
Upper eyelid surgery can be performed under local anaesthetic however when combined upper and lower eyelid surgery must be performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospiotal facility. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, it can take anywhere from 60 minutes to two hours to perform.
For upper eyelid lift surgery, Dr Laniewski typically places the incisions along the creases of the eyelids. This makes the incisions hard to see, which can be positive for the procedure’s results while still allowing for sufficient access to the tissues during the procedure. He will then make adjustments to the tissue, such as creating a lift or removing fat and skin, before closing the incisions.
Dr Laniewski performs lower eyelid surgery using a transconjunctival incision (placed on the inside of the eyelid) therefore no incisions are visible on the lower eyelashes. The procedure can also remove tissue to reduce puffiness.
The finer details of both procedures can be refined to meet the needs of each patient, making the procedures highly tailored.
How you can prepare for eyelid lift surgery
Before your surgery, you’ll have a consultation with your surgeon to discuss your goals, health history, and any medications or supplements you’re taking. It’s important to mention any history of dry eyes, eye infections, or visual problems, as these conditions can affect how your surgery will be approached. During your consultation, Dr Laniewski will assess your eyelid structure and overall facial anatomy to help plan the procedure.
In the weeks leading up to surgery, you may need to follow certain steps to prepare. These steps can often include avoiding blood-thinning medications, stopping taking certain supplements and quitting smoking. Sometimes, you may also need to have some tests to determine your suitability for the surgery.
The recovery process after an eyelid lift
Dr Laniewski will give you specific recovery instructions to guide your recovery after an eyelid lift. While the initial recovery period can take about two weeks or more, it can take a little longer for swelling and bruising to subside fully.
After surgery, it’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort around the eyes. Your surgeon will likely recommend using cold compresses to reduce swelling and may prescribe pain medication to help with any discomfort. It’s also essential to keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, for at least a few days after surgery.
During the first week of your recovery, you may need to apply prescribed ointments or eye drops to keep the eyes moist and prevent dryness. At the same time, you’ll need to care for the incision sites, ensuring that they are clean and dry (when they are placed on the outside of the eye).
When you are preparing for the procedure, you’ll also need to avoid smoking. It is generally advised to quit smoking before and after most surgical procedures. For a blepharoplasty, Dr Peter Laniewski typically recommends avoiding smoking, as well as alcohol, for at least two weeks.
The recovery process after eyelid surgery will also involve lowering your activity levels. Generally, it Is advised to avoid strenuous exercise during the first two weeks of your recovery and gradually resume light activities. While avoiding strenuous exercise, you should also avoid activities that can possibly put your eyes at risk of damage, such as contact sports. Avoiding frequently bending over can also help to reduce swelling around the eyes.
As your eyes heal, it’s best to avoid excessive heat exposure, particularly any steam or heat directly on your face. You should also avoid rubbing your eyelids and applying makeup or skincare products to the incision sites, as these can cause irritation.
As the swelling and bruising subsides, you will be able to see the results of your upper, lower or combined blepharoplasty. This can take a few months, depending on how complex your procedure was, your individual healing ability and if any complications need to be treated.
Are you a suitable candidate for eyelid lift surgery?
When considering eyelid lift surgery, your reasons for undergoing the procedure can be entirely personal, especially if they’re aesthetic-based.
Apart from your reasons for opting for the procedure, your surgeon will need to consider the characteristics of your eyes and some important health factors. These factors will each come into play when determining whether or not you are suitable.
During a consultation, Dr Laniewski can assess the level of skin elasticity on your upper and lower eyelids. A certain level of excess skin may need to be present for the procedure to be suitable. He can also assess if there is excess fat beneath the eyes and if the upper eyelids are interfering with your ability to see clearly.
Next, he will need to consider some individual health factors. Generally, being in good overall health, with no unmanaged medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or blood clotting disorders, will support both your suitability to undergo surgery and your body’s healing process.
Since the eye area is delicate, those with conditions affecting eye health, like dry eye syndrome or other chronic eye issues, might need to consult with an ophthalmologist first, as this procedure could potentially impact the symptoms of these conditions.
Being aware of the possible risks of blepharoplasty
Another aspect of eyelid lift surgery that is important to learn about and consider is the possible risks.
Any procedure can involve risk factors, and these are normally minimised by your plastic surgeon’s experience and skills. Before your surgery, Dr Laniewski can outline each of the possible risks and explain how they can be minimised.
Some possible complications of eyelid surgery can include dry eyes. However, this is typically temporary and subsides with time, along with other side effects such as swelling.
As with any procedure that requires incisions, infection and bleeding are other possible risks. Steps like caring for the incision sites by keeping them clean can help prevent infection. If an infection occurs, you may need to take antibiotics or have further treatment.
As for the aesthetic risks, there is always a risk of scarring and unsatisfactory results, such as asymmetry, after most plastic surgeries. Dr Laniewski aims to place eyelid surgery incisions along the creases of the upper eyelid, inside the eyelid or below the lash line, which normally means that scarring can be well hidden. However, noticeable scarring is still a risk, as every patient heals differently.
While complications are possible, you can avoid these as much as you can by following your surgeon’s instructions to prepare for and recover from the procedure. You can also make sure that you choose a skilled, experienced and qualified plastic surgeon, such as Dr Peter Laniewski.
Learn more about eyelid lift surgery with Dr Laniewski in Sydney and Central Coast
If you’re interested in upper or lower eyelid surgery, you can contact our team to arrange a consultation with Dr Laniewski.
Plastic surgeon Dr Peter Laniewski will carefully assess your eyes to create a suitable procedure plan, using the appropriate techniques to achieve personalised results.
Contact our team today to book your consultation or to ask any further questions about eyelid surgery!
