Name of the Procedure:

Blepharoplasty, upper eyelid; with excessive skin weighting down lid
Common Name(s): Eyelid surgery, Eyelid lift

Summary

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper eyelids. It aims to correct drooping eyelids that may impair vision or contribute to an aged appearance.

Purpose

The procedure addresses:

• Droopy or sagging upper eyelids.
• Impaired vision due to excessive skin overhanging the eyelid.

The goals are to:

• Improve eyesight obstructed by drooping eyelids.
• Enhance the cosmetic appearance of the eyes and face.

Indications

• Presence of sagging or droopy upper eyelids affecting vision.
• Excessive skin on the upper eyelids.
• Patients generally need to be in good overall health without serious eye conditions or other health problems that could impair healing.

Preparation

• Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure (specific instructions will be given by the healthcare provider).
• Adjust or stop certain medications as advised, especially blood thinners.
• A pre-operative assessment might include a physical examination and visual field testing.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient will receive local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
2. Marking the eyelid: The surgeon will mark where the skin will be removed.
3. Incision: An incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
4. Excision: Excess skin, muscle, and possibly fat are removed.
5. Closing the incision: The incision is closed with sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape.

Tools used may include surgical scalpels, scissors, and sometimes laser devices.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

Blepharoplasty is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, a surgical center, or a hospital.

Personnel

• Surgeon (Oculoplastic or Plastic Surgeon)
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)
• Nursing staff

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Swelling and bruising
• Dry eyes

Rare risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Difficulty closing the eyes
• Scarring
• Temporary or permanent changes in vision

Benefits

Patients can expect:

• Improved peripheral vision
• A more youthful and rested appearance These benefits can often be noticed a few weeks after the surgery once swelling subsides.

Recovery

• Keep the head elevated and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Use prescribed ointments or eye drops.
• Avoid strenuous activities for at least a week.
• Sutures are typically removed within a week.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments (e.g., Botox, fillers)
  • Pros: Non-invasive, shorter recovery time
  • Cons: Temporary solution, less dramatic results
• Brow lift or forehead lift
  • Pros: Address additional facial sagging
  • Cons: More invasive, longer recovery

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel mild pulling or pressure but no pain. Post-operatively, they might experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few days to a week. Pain can be managed with prescribed medications and cold packs. Comfort measures and detailed post-operative instructions will be provided to ensure smooth recovery.