In the majority of cases, blepharoplasty patients can expect to be given local anesthesia and conscious sedation to ensure their comfort and safety. The local option creates numbing of the eyelid tissues only.
Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are frequently used for patients undergoing upper eyelid surgery, although general anesthesia may be desirable in some instances. The local anesthetic is usually administered as a diffuse superficial slowly subcutaneous injection along the upper lid skin crease.
During the procedure, you won't be able to feel the surgery. Some surgeons put you under general anesthesia, while others choose simple local anesthesia if little work is needed. In fact, eyelid surgery is so simple and minimally invasive, most are same-day procedures.
Generally, an upper lid blepharoplasty is a non painful procedure that patients can usually have performed, and enjoy a minimal amount of post-operative pain medicine, because the procedure is very mild. It's almost like a skin excision, and the eyelid itself is not particularly painful.
For three to four weeks after blepharoplasty, you should avoid lifting, bending and crying, to avoid irritation to your eyes. You should also not exercise or play sport during this time, as this increases blood flow to the area which can impede the healing process.
Also, the removal of eyelid surgery stitches is relatively painless. Most patients describe it as a slight pulling or tugging on their eyes.
After the eyelid has been lifted, this may cause your eye not to close all the way while blinking, or even remain open while sleeping. This can lead to reflex oversecretion of tears. Fortunately, this is usually temporary and may resolve completely after several months.
Some of the possible complications of blepharoplasty include: risks of anaesthesia, including allergic reaction, which (rarely) may be fatal. surgical risks such as bleeding or infection. blood clots that may cause potentially fatal cardiovascular complications such as heart attack, deep vein thrombosis or stroke.
You can shower or wash your hair the day after surgery. Keep water, soap, shampoo, hair spray, and shaving lotion out of your eye, especially for the first week. Do not rub or put pressure on your eye for at least 2 weeks.
An adult should stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery. You should rest with your head elevated in a recliner or with at least 2 pillows for the first 48 hours after surgery. Take the prescribed pain medications before you begin to feel discomfort. It is easier to prevent pain than control it.
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, can correct those issues to restore a more rested and youthful appearance. It can also help make the eyes look "larger" by removing encroaching soft tissue from the corners. However, the actual shape of a person's eye is not changed with this procedure.
Before the procedure begins, you will be given anesthetic eye drops that numb the eyes. This will help reduce discomfort during the operation. Then, they'll use an instrument that will keep your eyes open, so you do not have to worry about blinking throughout the procedure.
The vast majority of people who have had a blepharoplasty are fully satisfied with their results. Eyelid surgery can make you look years younger after a single procedure, boosting your self-esteem. While we can't fully reverse the effects of aging, blepharoplasty can immediately transform your face.
It takes approximately 7-10 days for the main swelling and bruising to subside after eyelid surgery. Dissolvable stitches will dissolve on their own, while permanent stitches will be removed in 4-7 days.
If you opt for lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty), you can expect your results to last for a lifetime. If you opt for upper eyelid correction, you can expect your results to last for roughly five to seven years.
Diet: You should drink clear liquids immediately following your surgery. The day after surgery, you should begin slowly advancing to a solid diet, starting with bland foods. If you experience any nausea or vomiting, resume a clear diet for another 24 hours.
Walking is one of the best form of exercise after eyelid surgery. Walking in the initial phases of recovery can promote blood circulation, prevent blood clots and lead to a smoother recovery.
Your eyes may look swollen and bruised after your surgery. The eyelid swelling is usually worse early in the morning and will get better during the day as you sit or walk around. You may also have swelling on your cheeks and jawline. This will start to get better 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery.
People who get eyelid surgery are usually in their mid-30s at least. This is because the aging process visibly affects the eyelids in most people by this time. However, if you are at least 18 years old and concerned about the appearance of your eyelids, this procedure may be right for you.
People who are not ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are those who suffer from chronic dry-eye, hypertension, circulation disorders, thyroid disorders, diabetes or heart disease. Individuals who have glaucoma are advised to speak with their doctor before considering the surgery to find out if it is safe for them.
Eyelid surgery is not recommended for people with hypothyroidism, Grave's disease, dry eye syndrome, high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma or retinal detachment. Your surgeon will evaluate any excess skin or fat around your eyelid area, the position of your eyebrows and the muscles around your eyelids.
You will need to have a family member or friend with you to take you home. Once you get home, it is recommended that you rest your eyes and nap. Several hours post-surgery, most people are able to watch some television or look at a computer screen for a short period of time.
After eyelid surgery, it may take about two to three weeks for your vision to return to normal. During the first few days, you may have blurry and double vision caused by eyelid swelling that is usually temporary.