Blepharoplasty, which is performed to treat eyelid drooping and excess eyelid fat, is one of the cosmetic techniques used for beauty enhancement. In addition to its cosmetic purposes, this type of surgery can also have therapeutic applications. Blepharoplasty can be performed for various purposes, but ultimately, removing excess skin can also help improve vision. However, one of the concerns of individuals seeking eyelid surgery is the complications of blepharoplasty. They are afraid that this surgery may cause damage to the eyes, which is why some people will be discouraged from undergoing the procedure.
In this article, we will discuss the complications of eyelid surgery to provide you with a better understanding of this topic and help you make informed decisions.
Is blepharoplasty dangerous?
In most cases, eyelid drooping is caused by aging and the accumulation of fat in the eyelid tissues. In some cases, eye problems and difficulties occur, which will be followed by eyelid drooping. That is why it is necessary to undergo eyelid surgery to eliminate this problem. This procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids and the lower eyelid areas.
Complications of Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty consists of stages where initially the sagging and stretched eyelid skin is addressed, followed by the removal of accumulated fat in these areas through surgery or non-surgical methods. During eyelid surgery, you can be assured that you won’t feel any pain, as local anesthesia is administered to the eyelids before blepharoplasty. It is also worth mentioning that this procedure is performed on an outpatient basis.
Complications of Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty
Since blepharoplasty is primarily performed through surgery, there is a possibility of experiencing complications after the procedure. Failure to follow hygiene guidelines and postoperative care can lead to problems and risks. Some common complications that can occur after blepharoplasty include:
- Infection and bleeding in the skin are among the most common side effects of blepharoplasty. If antibiotics are not used, these complications can result in internal eye infections.
- Dryness and increased sensitivity of the eyes can occur after blepharoplasty. To alleviate this issue, your doctor may recommend the use of suitable eye drops.
- Closing the eyes may become problematic due to the presence of sutures.
- Scarring may remain on the eyelids after removing the suture threads.
- The skin surrounding the eyes may undergo color changes.
- During eyelid surgery, there is a possibility of damaging the muscles beneath the eyes while removing excess fat. For this reason, the performing physician must exercise utmost care and attention during blepharoplasty to minimize eye injuries.
- If the eye nerves are damaged, it can result in visual disturbances.
- Risks such as blood clotting under the skin or adverse reactions to anesthesia can occur during blepharoplasty.
- Some individuals may develop sensitivity to anesthesia, leading to severe respiratory problems.
To minimize the complications of blepharoplasty, it is essential to undergo the procedure under the supervision of a knowledgeable and experienced physician who possesses credible scientific qualifications and a high level of skill in performing blepharoplasty, ensuring that eye injuries are minimized.
For information on the cost of blepharoplasty, you can contact the specialized skin and hair clinic, Helia, for free at +971561004050. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +971561004050 to ask any questions about blepharoplasty and other beauty services.
Are the side effects of blepharoplasty dangerous and permanent?
Some of the complications resulting from blepharoplasty may resolve within a short period. Bruising, and wound swelling, for example, typically disappear within the first week after eyelid surgery, and there is no need to be concerned. However, in some cases, the injuries may be more serious, or eye disorders may occur due to improper surgery. These complications can be either permanent or temporary.
The risks of blepharoplasty depend on the extent and depth of the damage inflicted on the eye. Any hazardous sign, if diagnosed on time, can significantly improve. However, in most cases, injuries to the nerve and muscle tissues of the eye can remain for a lifetime. For this reason, to undergo such cosmetic procedures, it is necessary to consult a specialized physician in the field of blepharoplasty to minimize these risks.
| Complications | Preoperative care | Postoperative care | Suitable candidates |
| Infection | Consultation with an eye specialist and beauty expert to assess physical conditions such as visual problems and preoperative examinations before undergoing blepharoplasty. | Timely use of prescribed antibiotics by the doctor to prevent infection. | Individuals over 35 years of age |
| Bleeding | Avoiding smoking before blepharoplasty due to impaired oxygen supply and delayed wound healing. | Adequate rest | Individuals with droopy eyelids |
| Possibility of dryness and increased sensitivity of the eyes | Avoiding alcoholic beverages | Using sunglasses when going outside | Absence of underlying systemic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, blood clotting disorders |
| Formation of incision wounds on the eyelids | Using ointment for faster healing of sutures | Individuals without underlying eye conditions such as dry eyes, glaucoma, etc. | |
| Difficulty in opening and closing the eyes due to pressure on the eyelids | Using moisturizing eye drops to prevent eye dryness | ||
| Possibility of damaging the muscles below the eyes due to excessive fat removal from the eyelids | Not using contact lenses | ||
| Visual problems | Avoiding eye makeup after the surgery | ||
| Change in skin color around the eyes | Avoiding tobacco and alcoholic beverages | ||
| Possibility of allergic reactions and respiratory problems due to anesthesia reactions. |
Reasons for Eye Reduction after Blepharoplasty
Some common symptoms after blepharoplasty surgery lead some patients to seek answers regarding eye reduction after the procedure. These individuals want to know how common these symptoms are and what factors contribute to them.
Experts believe that experiencing this issue in the first few days after blepharoplasty surgery is normal. Swelling of the eyelids in the initial days can make the person’s eyes appear more closed and smaller.
How likely are the complications of blepharoplasty?
Keep in mind that the complications from blepharoplasty can rarely cause eye damage. Therefore, it is crucial to be very careful in selecting a specialist to minimize the severity of eyelid surgery complications. Additionally, following preoperative and postoperative recommendations plays a significant role in reducing the complications of eyelid surgery.
Itching of the eyelids after blepharoplasty
One of the natural symptoms after blepharoplasty surgery is the development of itching in the treated area. The extent of short-term complications of blepharoplasty also depends on various factors, including the genetic conditions of the individual, adherence to care principles, the expertise of the surgeon, and the medical staff. There are solutions available to prevent these symptoms, which we will discuss.
After undergoing blepharoplasty surgery, feeling burning, itching, and dryness around the eyes and the treated area is not unusual for patients. Typically, these symptoms will resolve within 2 to 3 weeks. Skin tightness, muscle weakness, and damage to the tear gland are among the factors that contribute to the occurrence of these symptoms.
Prevention and Treatment of Side Effects of Blepharoplasty
To minimize or prevent the side effects of blepharoplasty, it is necessary to pay attention to preoperative and postoperative care and perform them correctly to avoid dangerous complications and unfavorable outcomes. In the following article, we will discuss the preparations before blepharoplasty and the postoperative care:
Preoperative measures for blepharoplasty
- Initially, consult with an ophthalmologist and a plastic surgery specialist specializing in eyelid injuries to gather sufficient information about common questions that may arise during eyelid surgery. These questions may include details about the procedure, possible complications, treatment methods, pre-and post-operative care, patient concerns, and various other issues that the physician needs to address.
- A thorough examination by a physician should be conducted to ensure that blepharoplasty is not performed in the presence of visual problems.
- Before blepharoplasty, medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen sodium, or other drugs that increase blood flow should be discontinued.
- Smoking should be avoided before eyelid surgery because nicotine reduces oxygen supply to the blood and delays wound healing.
- Alcoholic beverages should also be avoided for a period recommended by the specialist as alcohol thins the blood.
Postoperative measures for blepharoplasty
- Antibiotic medications should be used to prevent infection.
- Rest and a healthy diet can accelerate the recovery process after blepharoplasty.
- Special ointments for sutures in these areas should be used.
- Wearing sunglasses after blepharoplasty is essential.
- Do not use contact lenses until authorized by the specialist.
- Use eye lubricating drops to prevent dryness of the eyes.
- Continue to abstain from alcohol and tobacco use for some time.
Who are not suitable candidates for blepharoplasty surgery?
Knowing whether you are a suitable candidate for eyelid or blepharoplasty surgery can help prevent the risks and long-term complications of blepharoplasty:
- According to physicians, the best candidates for eyelid surgery should be at least 35 years old because as age increases, the eyelids become droopy, loose, and saggy, and individuals will see noticeable changes after this procedure. However, some younger individuals under the age of 35 may undergo this procedure for specific reasons, such as congenital issues.
- To undergo this surgery, the person must be generally healthy and not have any specific diseases.
- Also, individuals with dry eyes or who suffer from glaucoma, which can cause optic nerve damage, may have a higher risk of experiencing side effects after the surgical procedure and may not be recommended for this surgery by the surgeon if they have the mentioned conditions.
- Furthermore, if you have a history of difficulties in wound healing after surgical treatments or if your skin is prone to keloid scars, or if you have eye conditions such as detachment or retinal tear, Graves’ disease (an autoimmune disease caused by excessive stimulation of the thyroid by the immune system), or other conditions that have affected your vision, you should seek approval from your ophthalmologist before eyelid surgery.
- If you have systemic conditions such as thyroid disease, high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, or diabetes, you should inform your treating physician.
Who are suitable candidates for blepharoplasty surgery?
Many individuals want to know and make sure whether they are suitable candidates for this procedure or not. Generally, if you are in good overall health and have realistic expectations of eyelid ptosis surgery, there are a few reasons to prevent you from undergoing this surgery. In general, individuals who are physically and mentally healthy, are over the age of 35, do not have any specific diseases, or do not take medication can undergo eyelid surgery.
Post-Blepharoplasty Eye Hollowing
Eye hollowing is another common symptom that may occur after blepharoplasty surgery. This symptom is more prevalent in older individuals and can be controlled. The treating physician can prescribe appropriate treatment options based on individual characteristics by assessing the post-operative signs. It is worth mentioning that the occurrence of eyelid surgery complications may be related to genetic factors and individual allergies.
Prevention is the best approach to avoid the emergence of these symptoms. By visiting a well-equipped medical clinic with experienced healthcare professionals, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of these symptoms. Additionally, adherence to recommended treatment strategies is highly important. Some common preventive and control measures for eye hollowing, according to Helia Clinic, include:
- Using cold compresses
- Applying used tea bags locally
- Using fish oil or omega-3
- Avoiding alcohol consumption and tobacco use
- Following a suitable diet and using certain vitamins
Is eyelid surgery accompanied by significant pain?
Some individuals may be concerned about the pain associated with the surgery and may experience stress and anxiety or even consider canceling the procedure. It should be noted that eyelid surgery is not associated with significant pain, and after the anesthesia wears off, there may be a slight burning sensation, which can be alleviated with the use of pain relievers, providing a sense of better comfort. Around 70% of swelling and bruising diminishes within a week. Approximately 90% of swelling and bruising subsides after two weeks. After this period, it becomes difficult to detect that the individual has undergone eyelid surgery.
Eyelid Redness after Blepharoplasty
As mentioned throughout the text, itching, swelling, and redness are common during the early recovery period after blepharoplasty surgery. The causes and severity of eye redness can be multifactorial. The expertise of the treating physician and the equipment available at the relevant clinic can also have an impact on the occurrence of eye redness.
To prevent the development and prolongation of this symptom, the treating physician will prescribe certain medications and personal care measures. Adhering to the recommendations and prescribed instructions can significantly reduce these symptoms. Some common postoperative care principles after blepharoplasty surgery include:
- Taking rest
- Using cold and warm compresses
- Following a healthy diet
- Using eye drops and ointments
- Applying sterile gauze at the suture site
- Avoiding sun exposure
- Avoiding strenuous daily activities
- Avoiding intense physical exercise
- Avoiding anxiety and stress
- Avoiding alcohol consumption
- Avoiding blood thinners
- Avoiding pollution and cigarette smoke
Excess Tissue after Blepharoplasty
One of the concerns of individuals undergoing blepharoplasty surgery is the development of excess tissue in the eyelid area. Contradictory information has been circulating online regarding the causes of this condition. The appearance of excess tissue in the surgical area is not considered a normal symptom after blepharoplasty and rarely occurs.
As mentioned, this condition is rare and usually manifests as small fleshy masses during the recovery period after surgery. It is typically caused by the accumulation of lymphatic fluids or scar formation resulting from the incisions. In some cases, these symptoms may also be due to a reaction to sutures.
In this treatment method, the wound sites may initially appear more prominent, and scars may seem worse. In certain conditions, these masses gradually disappear, and in some cases, specific care and treatment measures are employed based on the physician’s prescription and diagnosis. It is worth noting that under normal circumstances, these symptoms will resolve within 1 to 4 months after the surgery.
Uneven Eyelids after Blepharoplasty
Uneven eyelids after eyelid surgery are another common symptom resulting from visits to unreliable clinics. The experience and expertise of the treating physician and medical staff can significantly affect the likelihood of this occurrence.
This condition can arise in some cases due to the physician’s lack of experience and uneven removal of fat from both eyes. In other situations, the occurrence of this symptom is related to adherence to proper care principles. Some of the causes of this condition include:
- Ptosis: This is known as the most common cause of uneven eyelids. Ptosis can sometimes be inherited. Individuals with inherited ptosis may experience drooping eyelids throughout their lives. This condition can manifest due to the accumulation of fluid in the suborbital tissue beneath the eye.
- Nervous tic: Another major cause of uneven eyelids after blepharoplasty is nervous tic. This condition can cause changes in the appearance of the individual’s eyelids during the recovery period after surgery.
You can consult with experienced specialists at “Helia Dermatology, Hair, and Beauty Clinic” to inquire about the cost of blepharoplasty. For consultation, you can contact them at +971561004050 or utilize the online chat system available on their website.
