Name of the Procedure:

Excision and Repair of Eyelid

• Common names: Eyelid surgery, Eyelid repair
• Medical terms: Blepharoplasty, Eyelid excision, Lid margin repair

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal and repair of parts of the eyelid, which may include the lid margin, tarsus (the dense connective tissue), conjunctiva, canthus (the corner of the eye), or involve full-thickness of the eyelid. It can include preparations for skin graft or the rearrangement of adjacent tissues.

Purpose

The procedure addresses various conditions like eyelid tumors, trauma, or deformities. It aims to restore the normal function and appearance of the eyelid, thereby protecting the eye and improving the patient's vision and cosmetic appearance.

Indications

• Tumors or lesions on the eyelid
• Eyelid injuries or trauma
• Congenital or acquired eyelid deformities
• Chronic eyelid conditions causing functional issues

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a specific period prior to the procedure.
• Adjustments to certain medications, particularly blood thinners, may be required.
• Diagnostic tests such as eye examinations or imaging studies to assess the extent of the issue.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is prepared and anesthetized, typically with local anesthesia and sedation.
2. The surgeon makes precise incisions to excise the targeted portion of the eyelid, which may involve the lid margin, tarsus, conjunctiva, or canthus.
3. If required, a skin graft or pedicle flap is prepared and transferred to cover the excised area.
4. The adjacent tissues are rearranged and sutured in place to ensure proper eyelid function and appearance.
5. The area is cleaned and dressed appropriately.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on complexity.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient surgical center, or specialized clinic.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic or plastic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is applied)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, bruising, swelling.
• Rare risks: Poor wound healing, scarring, changes in vision, asymmetry, and loss of eyelid function.
• Complications are managed with antibiotics for infection, proper wound care for healing issues, and sometimes follow-up procedures.

Benefits

• Restoration of normal eyelid function.
• Improved cosmetic appearance.
• Enhanced vision if it was impaired by the condition. Benefits are typically realized within a few weeks post-op as swelling subsides and healing progresses.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes keeping the area clean and applying prescribed ointments.
• Patients may need to avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Swelling and bruising usually resolve within 1-2 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring for less severe conditions.
• Non-surgical treatments like steroid injections for certain eyelid issues.
• Laser therapy, although it may not be as effective for deeper or more complex issues. Each alternative has its pros and cons, such as less invasiveness vs. effectiveness.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients, if locally anesthetized, will be awake but should not feel pain, only some pressure or tugging sensations. Post-procedure, mild to moderate pain is expected, which can be managed with prescribed pain relievers. Cold compresses and proper wound care will aid recovery and comfort. Patients may experience temporary vision disturbances due to swelling but this usually resolves as healing progresses.