BLEPHAROPLASTY / EYELID PLASTY
Blepharoplasty
UPPER EYELIDS:
- Excess skin of the upper eyelids, especially visible on the outer (lateral) aspect of the eyelids, can create a tired, aged and sad-looking face.
- It can also, in severe cases, affect vision. This happens when the excess skin covers part of the pupil, limiting peripheral vision.
PROCEDURE:
- An upper eyelid blepharoplasty involves surgically removing an ellipse of excess skin and sometimes muscle. In addition to this, small amounts of fat can also be removed to smooth out the contour of the upper eyelid. The scar is hidden in the natural eyelid crease.
LOWER EYELIDS:
- Bags or dark rings under the eyes create the impression of ageing, tiredness or illness. Furthermore, the eyelid can lose contact with the eye and can hang like a stretched-out hammock (especially in the aged). This is called an Ectropion.
PROCEDURE:
- A lower lid blepharoplasty involves tightening the lower eyelid and redraping/replacing the sagging fatty tissue.
FAQ's
Q: Will my medical insurance/aid pay for an upper lid blepharoplasty if it is severe?
A: Some medical aids are willing to pay for upper eyelid surgery in severe circumstances of limited vision. This requires a motivation letter from the surgeon, including photographs and a Visual Field Test, which can be obtained from your optometrist or ophthalmologist. The Visual Field Test must indicate peripheral vision impairment
Q: Will a blepharoplasty change the shape of my eyes? Will my eyes become more round and look unnatural?
A: A lower lid blepharoplasty is a difficult procedure, requiring skill. Over-resection of skin can lead to a “rounded” appearance of the eye, even though all care is taken to prevent this occurring.
Q: How long is the recovery time for this procedure?
A: Most patients have recovered after 7-10 days. Sutures and plasters stay on for 5 days. Wearing dark glasses can camouflage the bruising and hide the fresh scars.
Q: What can go wrong during/after the surgery?
A: Please refer to the Patient’s Informed Consent document detailing the risks and complications of this procedure. Your doctor will also discuss these during your consultation.
Q: When can I wash my face and hair?
A: The plasters placed over the incisions following the surgery can withstand some wetting. They should stay on for 2 to 3 days. Thereafter they can be removed and face washing can resume as normal.