Eyes

Blepharoplasty

An eyelid surgery aims to remove sagging skin from the upper eyelids or bags under the eyes. The upper and lower eye lids can be operated separately or at the same time. A blepharoplasty does not affect vision. Eyelid surgery is usually done under light anesthesia and local anesthesia. In the surgery of the upper eyelid, excess skin is removed and a small bit of muscle around the eye is taken away as well, to highlight the crease of the upper eyelid. Sometimes even a little of the fat that surrounds the eye bulbs is removed. In lower eyelid surgery the insicions can be performed below the lashes or on the inside of the lower eyelids. If the insicions are performed under the eyelashes the fat can either be moved or removed while taking away skin but if the insicions are performed on the inside only the fat is removed. Eyelid surgery takes usually 0.5-1.5 hour. After the operation the patient remains for another hour in the clinic applying ice bags to minimize the swelling and bruising.

The swelling is usually at its worst after a few days and disappears completely after 1-2 weeks. It is normal that a little blood seeps from the wound edges the first day. Sleep with your head held high, for example with two pillows, the first nights. The bruises decrease significantly during the first week but can be slightly visible for 2-3 weeks, especially under the eyes. When the stitches are removed, you can put on make-up and also cover the bruises with opaque cream. You should avoid bending forwards the first few days and also avoid heavy lifting. Remember not to eat painkillers containing aspirin one week before and after surgery because it can increase the number of bruises. Use Alvedon, Panodil, Citodon or Dexofen to relieve pain. The stitches are removed after 4-6 days. You should not wear contact lenses until 10 days after the operation. It is common one is able to start working 7-10 days after surgery and exercise can be resumed after approximately 3 weeks or when all the bruises are gone.