Blepharoplasty

One of the most common problems is excess or descending skin around the eyelids, which can rest on the eyelashes. In some cases, it can also impair vision.

Blepharoplasty—often called “eyelid reduction”—offers a surgical solution to both men and women with excess skin on the upper and/or lower eyelids. By lifting and tightening the skin around the eyes, the procedure addresses aesthetic and functional concerns.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Before the procedure, we will have a discussion with you about your current health, medical history, and reasons for seeking surgery. This will help us make sure you are suitable for the procedure. During this meeting, we will examine your skin laxity to determine the approach for your particular case. Dr Richardson will explain the process in detail, including what happens during the procedure, how to prepare, and the recovery period. Additionally, you can ask any questions or raise any concerns to ensure you are fully prepared and informed.

The Procedure

Blepharoplasty surgery is performed as a day case in an accredited-hospital. If combined with other procedures, such as a facelift, you may stay overnight. This procedure can be performed under a local or general anaesthetic. The most suitable type of anaesthetic for you will be discussed at your consultation.

During an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, Dr Richardson makes a careful incision in the natural eyelid crease. He will then remove any excess skin as needed, and the process may involve muscle tightening and fat redraping or removal.

Similarly, lower eyelid surgery involves the removal or repositioning of excess fat deposits under the eye. This is usually done through an incision just below the lower lash line or from within the eyelid. During your initial consultation, you can discuss which techniques are most suitable to address your eyelid condition. Dr Richardson will ensure you receive appropriate care and guidance for your specific circumstances.

Cost of Blepharoplasty Surgery

The overall cost of blepharoplasty surgery can depend on several factors, including your reasons for surgery and whether both upper and lower eyelids are operated on. Patients often seek eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons, and in such cases, patients will need to pay the full fees. This includes surgeon, hospital, and anaesthetist fees. However, if your excess eyelid skin is impairing your vision, surgery may be medically necessary. In this case, you may be eligible for Medicare or private insurance rebates. We can answer any further questions about fees during a consultation with you.

Aftercare

After the procedure, your incisions will be covered with eye ointment and light medical tape dressings. Your head will be elevated and ice packs will be placed over your eyes to help reduce any swelling and bruising. Regular eye drops and pain medication will also be prescribed to keep you comfortable as you recover. In addition, Dr Richardson will give advise on how to take care of your incisions at home. It is vital to follow this advice to promote good healing and achieve your desired results. For example, you may need to:

• Regularly apply lubricating eye drops and ice during the first 24 hours.
• Take time off work to allow your body enough recovery time.
• Sleep on your back with your head elevated.
• Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
• Refrain from smoking, as this can impact the healing process.
• Avoid heavy lifting and exercise.

It is important to organise a trusted friend or family member to drive you home and stay with you for the first few days to help you with any day-to-day tasks.

Please allow enough time to rest and recover. After you have healed, we recommend you maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine, minimise sun exposure, wear sunscreen, and avoid smoking.

As a guide, most patients can expect the following recovery following blepharoplasty surgery:

• Initial discomfort: 1-2 weeks
• Return to activity: 1 week
• Return to travel: 2-6 weeks
• Return to exercise: gentle walk at 1 week, gym after 6-8 weeks
• Return to work: 1-2 weeks for upper lid surgery; 2-3 weeks for lower eyelid surgery
• Return to social functions: 2-4 weeks for upper lid surgery; 6-8 weeks for lower lid surgery
• Return to driving: 2-3 weeks. Patients must be fully alert, no longer taking any sedating medications, able to move freely without restriction and have normal vision.

We will guide and advise you further according to your procedures and specific circumstances.

Risks and Complications

Following blepharoplasty surgery, you can experience some mild swelling, bruising and tearing from the eyes. Significant complications following blepharoplasty eyelid surgery are rare, and whilst not common, it is always a good idea to do your research and be aware of these to help you make a decision that is right for you. Risks of blepharoplasty surgery include:

• Bleeding and infection
• Persistent swelling and tearing
• Damage to nerves or muscles
• Slow wound healing
• Visual disturbance
• Poor scarring
• Asymmetry
• Further surgery

You can reduce these risks by choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon to operate on this delicate area and follow your aftercare instructions. Dr Richardson uses the latest techniques to reduce risks and minimise scarring.