Blepharoplasty/eyelid reduction
As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, which can result in sagging. One area this affects is the eyelids. When we age, the eyelids stretch and the supporting muscles become weaker. As a result, the eyelids start to droop, eyebrows sag, and we see puffiness under the eye. Other conditions can also cause this droopiness in the eyelids too. However, there is a way to correct this issue with a procedure called Blepharoplasty.
Blepharoplasty/eyelid reduction Details
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a common procedure for both men and women to correct drooping upper eyelids and alleviates the puffiness below the eyes. Excess skin of the upper eyelid can obstruct vision in elderly people and cause them to knock into things. It can involve the removal of excess fat, muscle or skin from the eyelids. The procedure not only gives you a more youthful appearance, but it also can correct issues with vision, where the sagging has impaired a person’s peripheral vision.
Who is the ideal candidate for Blepharoplasty in Malaysia?
The ideal candidate for Blepharoplasty in Malaysia includes he/she who wants to remove excess skin folds and bulging fat bags in their upper and lower eyelids, those who want to improve their overall facial appearance and young ladies who want a fold in their upper eyelid (ie ‘double eyelid”).
Preparing for the Procedure
Before this procedure is done, you will have a consultation with your eye specialist and plastic surgeon to go over your medical history, medications, lifestyle, your expectations, and why you wish to have the procedure done. An exam will also be done, as well as photos taken on the eyelid from different angles to help plan the surgery. You may also be asked to stop taking certain medications that are associated with increased bleeding before your procedure, as well as to stop smoking several weeks in advance, as this can reduce your healing ability. You will need to arrange for someone to take you to and from the surgery and it is advisable to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure.
How is Blepharoplasty is done
Blepharoplasty is a procedure that can be done on its own, or at the same time as another cosmetic procedure, such as skin resurfacing or face and brow lifts. It is generally done as an outpatient procedure. Our surgeon will first inject your eyelids with a numbing agent and may also administer something that will help you relax. If you are having both the upper and lower lids done, your surgeon will start on the upper lids first. The incision line will be marked along the natural lines of your upper and lower lids. These incisions will extend into the “smile lines” or “crows feet” found along the outer edges of the eyes. Excess skin, fat, and sagging muscle will then be removed through this incision. The cut is then closed. The procedure takes about 1 to 2 hours. Blepharoplasty can be performed as a Day Care under local anesthesia (with or without sedation).
What can you expect after the operation?
After the procedure, you will spend a bit of time in the recovery room so you can be monitored in case of any complications. You will be able to go home the same day to recuperate. Normally after surgery, some suture strips will be applied as support to the eyelids. The sutures are removed in 1 week. You will have bruising and swelling around the eyes for a few days that will subside. Ice packs will help to reduce this. Some bruising and swelling around your eyes may last 2 or 3 weeks. You may also have temporary blurred vision and excessive tear production. There will be scars along the natural skin lines and creases but will usually fade with time and become barely noticeable. You may also be sensitive to light and experience double vision that is temporary. Our surgeon will suggest some steps that you can take at home, such as using ice packs on the eyes each hour, for about 10 minutes. You may also be given prescription ointments and eye drops to use at home. For the first week, you should avoid any swimming, heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and smoking. It’s also important that you don’t run your eyes. If you are a contact lens wearer, you will be advised not to put them in for at least two weeks after your surgery. When going out in the sun and wind, wear dark sunglasses to protect the eye area. For a few days, it will help to sleep with your head raised higher than your chest.
What Are The Significance And Outcome of The Blepharoplasty Procedure?
You will have a more youthful and rested appearance. Fat bulges and skin folds will be removed and eyelid creases improved. The skin and lax muscles will become firmer and tighter. Peripheral vision that was blocked by drooping upper eyelids will be improved.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Is Blepharoplasty surgery painful?
How long will my scars take to heal?
Can eye bags return after Blepharoplasty?
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