Blepharoplasty (Eyelid)

What is a blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure performed by our Specialist Plastic Surgeons in Perth. It aims to remove excess fatty tissue and/or loose skin from the upper and/or lower eyelids. Eyelid reduction surgery can effectively address bags and wrinkles around the eyes. However, it is important to clarify that this procedure does not address wrinkles of the cheeks, temples, or forehead. Additionally, it does not assist with drooping eyebrows, as a brow lift is specifically designed for that purpose.

Eyelid reduction surgery can be sought for either cosmetic or medical reasons, with the latter subject to strict Medicare eligibility criteria. It’s important to note that the necessity of the procedure for medical purposes, such as correcting visual impairment, should be determined based on these criteria.

What factors may influence the consideration of blepharoplasty surgery?

You may wish to have blepharoplasty surgery to address conditions such as:

• Upper eyelid ptosis: This is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops, obscuring some of the iris (coloured part of the eye).
• Puffy upper eyelids: This is a condition in which excess fat builds up in the upper eyelid, causing it to appear swollen.
• Eye bags: This is a condition in which fat and fluid accumulate under the eyes, causing them to appear puffy and dark.
• Lower eyelid ectropion: This is a condition in which the lower eyelid turns outward, exposing the white part of the eye.
• Lower eyelid dermatochalasis: This is a condition in which excess skin and muscle develop on the lower eyelid, causing it to appear droopy and wrinkled.

Is a blepharoplasty right for me?

When considering blepharoplasty surgery, it is crucial to schedule a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon. This initial step ensures open communication about your appearance goals and expectations. Your surgeon will conduct a comprehensive examination and attentively listen to and address your concerns. They will then discuss the most appropriate options for your individual circumstances. Surgical face lift or brow lift may be advised instead of, or in addition to, a blepharoplasty procedure.

How is blepharoplasty surgery performed?

The procedure will vary depending on individual physical features, the extent of skin and fat removal required, and the surgeon’s professional assessment. Typically, incisions are made along natural lines of the upper and lower eyelids, including the outer edge where the ‘crow’s feet’ or smile lines form. After the careful removal of surplus skin and fat, the incisions are meticulously closed. The duration of the procedure may range from 1 to 2 hours.

The surgery is performed in Perth in a fully-accredited hospital. The surgery can be performed as a day procedure or alternatively with a short hospital stay, under either local anaesthesia (with or without sedation) or general anaesthesia, depending on your general health and the extent of the procedure.

Are there any risks and complications of blepharoplasty surgery?

All plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures come with risks and potential complications. To ensure successful surgery, it is crucial to understand and minimise these risks. Whilst all measures are taken to mitigate risks, some risks are unavoidable.

All information on this page is general in nature – your Specialist Plastic Surgeon will discuss the specific risks and complications pertinent to your individual surgical procedure during your consultation. General risks for surgery are listed here.

Specific risks related to blepharoplasty surgery include, but are not limited to:

• Over-removal of skin: This can lead to the cornea (the clear covering at the front of the eye) being exposed, which can cause pain and irritation. In severe cases, it can even lead to blindness.
• Asymmetry of the eyelids: This can occur if the amount of skin removed from each eyelid is not equal. It is usually a minor problem, but in some cases, it can be quite noticeable.
• Noticeable scarring: The incisions used in eyelid reduction surgery are typically placed in the natural crease of the eyelid, so they are usually not very noticeable. However, in some cases, scarring can be more pronounced.
• Itchiness, excessive tearing, or dryness of the eyes: These problems can occur during the recovery period and usually resolve on their own. However, in some cases, they may persist or become chronic.
• Temporary drooping of the lower eyelid: This is a common side effect of eyelid reduction surgery, and it usually resolves within a few weeks. However, in some cases, it may be permanent.
• Temporary changes in vision: This can occur due to swelling or bruising around the eyes. It is usually temporary, but in some cases, it may persist or become permanent.
• Blindness: This is a very rare complication of eyelid reduction surgery. However, it is more likely to occur in people who smoke, have pre-existing eye diseases, or engage in activities that involve straining, lifting, or coughing.

Will blepharoplasty surgery leave any scars?

Although your surgeon will make every effort to keep them as inconspicuous as possible, scars are the inevitable result of any surgery. As scars will be along natural skin lines and creases and will usually fade with time, they are not usually significant after blepharoplasty surgery. Some patients have a tendency to develop keloid or hypertrophic scars and you should advise your surgeon if you are aware of this tendency in yourself.

What results can I expect from blepharoplasty surgery?

The primary objective of blepharoplasty surgery is to address specific concerns, such as excess skin folds and fat around the eyelids, in order to achieve better facial proportion, correct impaired vision, and assist with overall comfort. It is important to note that for issues related to drooping eyebrows or creases in the forehead, temple, or cheeks, additional procedures like a face lift or a brow lift may be recommended. Please keep in mind that achieving perfect symmetry may not be possible as natural facial features often have slight variations between the two sides.

When can I resume normal activities following eyelid surgery?

Most patients typically experience a recovery period of 7-10 days, during which it is advisable to take necessary precautions such as wearing sunglasses. Additionally, you may choose to apply cosmetics during this time however, it is crucial to prioritise sun protection to safeguard your skin.

It is important to emphasise that every patient’s recovery process requires sufficient time, support, and appropriate postoperative care. Healing abilities and pain tolerance may vary among individuals, leading to differences in the duration of recovery and the ability to participate in various activities.

How much does this procedure cost?

Please contact us online or call us on (08) 9380 0333 and one of our medical secretaries can provide you with more information. Please note that pricing does vary from case to case.

Where can I find more information?

The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website is a helpful and reliable source of information online. Their website is an excellent place to research a range of surgical procedures and non-surgical treatments, and view video animations.