The appearance of the eyes and their surroundings affects the expression of the entire face. Loose, wrinkled eyelids make us look older and tired. In some people, they also restrict the field of vision. To correct these imperfections, one can undergo blepharoplasty. Find out what this procedure involves at Dr. Parda Clinic in Piaseczno.

How do our eyelids change?

As the aging process progresses, the eyelids loosen, and the muscles supporting them weaken. As a result, excess skin and fat may accumulate above and below the eyes. This contributes to drooping eyelids and eyebrows, as well as the formation of "bags" under the eyes. Sagging skin around the eyes can also affect vision.

Such problems sometimes occur in young people as well. This is because, in addition to age, genetic predispositions or exposure to environmental factors, such as sunlight, can contribute to changes. Reducing or eliminating these imperfections is possible through blepharoplasty.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, the technical term for eyelid correction, is one of the most commonly performed anti-aging surgical procedures. The goal of blepharoplasty is to give the face a younger and more rested appearance. For some patients, it also serves to improve the field of vision. The procedure can involve the upper and/or lower eyelids.

What are the indications for eyelid correction?

Blepharoplasty can address problems such as:

• drooping upper eyelids;
• excess skin of the upper eyelids;
• excess skin on the lower eyelids;
• "bags" under the eyes.

Eyelid surgery is performed after exhausting the possibilities of less invasive treatments.

Who is eyelid lifting for?

Changes above and below the eyes that require correction can be caused by various factors. Therefore, there is no specific age for performing eyelid lifting. We most often perform it on middle-aged patients. However, correction can also be done on younger individuals. If there are indications, we recommend the procedure to both women and men.

Preparation for eyelid correction

Before blepharoplasty, a qualifying consultation takes place. During the meeting, the doctor listens to the patient's expectations and explains the effects of eyelid lifting. In addition, the existence of contraindications to the procedure is ruled out.

Before the visit, blood tests – complete blood count with differential, electrolyte levels (K-potassium, Na-sodium), and blood clotting factors (APTT/INR) – need to be performed.

It is recommended to stop taking blood-thinning medications 10 days before the procedure. It is also advisable to quit smoking before the procedure, as continuing it may hinder postoperative healing.

What are the contraindications for eyelid correction?

The procedure is not performed in case of abnormal test results. Contraindications to the procedure also include cancer, tendency to keloids, and viral or bacterial infection. Eyelid lifting is also not performed on pregnant or breastfeeding patients. Women should also not undergo the procedure during menstruation.

What is blepharoplasty like at Dr. Parda Clinic in Piaseczno?

Eyelid correction, both upper and lower, is performed under local infiltrative anesthesia. It eliminates the feeling of pain, but the patient remains conscious. During the procedure, we can, according to the specific needs, lift the upper eyelid, raise the corners of the eyes, reduce "bags" under the eyes, or the so-called tear trough.

Blepharoplasty usually involves excising excess skin. The doctor makes incisions in the natural folds of the eyelids. Typically, a small amount of subcutaneous fat is also removed during the procedure. During lower eyelid correction, the muscles at the edges of the eyelids are also shortened. At the end of the procedure, the skin is sutured with fine stitches. Then we apply a dressing.

Eyelid lifting takes about 1-1.5 hours. Usually, the patient leaves for home shortly after blepharoplasty.

Recovery after eyelid lifting

The dressing is usually removed the day after the procedure. In the first few days after blepharoplasty, transient swelling and bruising may occur around the eyes. These discomforts can be alleviated with cooling compresses. We also recommend special ointments to speed up healing. Any pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications. During this time, we recommend avoiding unnecessary physical exertion, especially lifting heavy objects or bending over.

Stitches are removed about 7-14 days after the procedure. Makeup can usually be applied 2 weeks after the procedure. In a similar timeframe, a return to work is possible. During outings, for 1-2 months after the procedure, eyes should be protected with dark glasses.

Can complications occur after blepharoplasty?

It is important to remember that every procedure carries a risk of complications.

After eyelid correction, in addition to commonly occurring swelling, problems such as:

• hematoma;
• insufficient tear production;
• incomplete eyelid closure;
• asymmetry.

However, careful qualification for the procedure and the doctor's experience reduce the likelihood of their occurrence.

What are the results of eyelid correction?

The full effects of the procedure are visible a few weeks after its performance. After the procedure, the face gains a fresher and more attractive appearance. Blepharoplasty also improves self-esteem and increases confidence. It also enlarges the field of vision. Scars from the procedure, hidden in natural folds and wrinkles, are usually barely visible. Eyelid lifting provides long-lasting results. Over time, as the skin and muscles loosen again, another correction can be performed.

23.05.2024

Author: Dr Barbara Parda-Głomska

Dr. Barbara Parda-Głomska is a graduate of the Postgraduate School of Aesthetic Medicine at PTL and a member of the Polish Society of Aesthetic Medicine (UIME).