Blepharoplasty is a popular treatment as it can make people look considerably younger and is a relatively quick and simple procedure. As the skin ages, it loses its tone and elasticity which can cause wrinkles and bags; the areas underneath and above the eyelids are prone to wrinkles. Wrinkles and bags under the eyes are some of the most visible indicators of age; they can make people look much older than they are, which can cause them to lose confidence and feel unhappy about the way they look. This procedure is most common in women aged between 40 and 70 years old.
What does the eyelid surgery procedure involve?
The procedure involves removing excess fat from the areas around the eye and tightening the skin to get rid of wrinkles and bags. The surgery can be carried out on both the upper and lower eyelids. During a procedure on the top eyelid, an incision will be made in the creases on the eyelid and any excess fat, muscle and skin are taken out using surgical instruments or laser beams. For surgery on the lower eyelid, the surgeon will make an incision in the creases underneath the eyelashes and at the corner of the eyes; any excess tissue will then be removed and the cut will be closed up using stitches; most surgeons also put ointment in the eye to keep it moist.
Will anaesthetic be used?
Most patients having eyelid surgery will have general anaesthesia; this ensures that they feel no pain during the operation. Usually it takes a few hours for the effects of the anaesthetic to wear off after the operation; patients will be kept in hospital during this time so that their condition can be monitored.
How much does eyelid surgery cost?
The cost of eyelid surgery varies according to where you choose to go for your operation and whether you have one or both eyelids lifted. As a general guide, patients should expect to pay between £2,000 and £4,500 for this treatment.
Are there any alternatives to eyelid surgery?
The most common alternative to eyelid surgery is a brow lift; this involves lifting the skin and removing excess fat from around the eyes and eyebrows in order to make it tauter; this makes people look younger.
Are there any risks?
The risk of complications during or after this procedure is very low; however, complications are possible and patients should be aware of this before they agree to have the surgery. Complications many include damage to the eyeball and bleeding underneath the skin around the eye or behind the eye.
Are there any side-effects to eyelid surgery?
As with most invasive surgical procedures, temporary side-effects are common. Common side-effects include swelling around the eyes, bruising, redness and tenderness, watery, sensitive eyes and itchy eyes; these effects should wear off over a short period of time.
How long does recovery from eyelid surgery take?
After a few days the effects of the operation should have worn off; applying ice to the eyes and using ointment will help to speed up recovery by reducing swelling and keeping the eyes moist. Stitches are usually removed after 5 days and the patient should be able to return to their normal life shortly after this time; it may take a while for the bruising to disappear so many patients choose to have a longer period of time to recover. The final results of the surgery should be visible after around two to three weeks.
Are the results of eyelid surgery permanent?
The skin continues to age so the results of the surgery will not be permanent; many patients choose to have more surgery as the signs of ageing become more visible.