Upper Lid Blepharoplasty

Why do patients request an upper lid blepharoplasty?
Patients are often very self conscious about excess skin and wrinkling developing in the upper eyelids. They feel that these features make them appear tired and they often complain of the skin of their eyelids hanging over the eyelashes and causing problems with vision. This appearance can result in comments from colleagues and acquaintances about their appearance and how tired they look.

The development of this appearance is a natural consequence of ageing. With the passage of time the skin and underlying tissue loses its elasticity and stretches. The skin becomes wrinkly and the eyebrow droops down a bit.

Are there any reasons not to have a upper lid blepharoplasty?
There are no absolute reasons not to have upper lid blepharoplasties but relative contra indications include previous surgery to the upper eyelid, previous brow lift, history of hyperthyoidism, and exophthalmos (protrusion of the eyeball).

Other indications not to have surgery include smoking and a history of bleeding disorders. Medications such as aspirin and warfarin need to be considered carefully when planning surgery.

How is the operation performed?
Upper lid blepharoplasty is normally carried out under a local anaesthetic but can be performed under a general anaesthetic. The skin and muscle of the upper eyelid is excised, some fat is removed, the underlying tissue is tightened. The wound is closed with fine sutures (stitches).

What you need to know

How long does the operation take?
A lower lid blepharoplasty takes about 40 minutes

How long am I in hospital?
The operation is usually done as a daycase but some surgeons keep their patients in overnight.

What happens when I go home?
Most patients are discharged from the hospital the following morning after the operation from the hospital. The sutures are removed 5-7 days after the operation when you will be reviewed by your surgeon
Most patients are able to return to work within a fortnight of their operation. Patients are instructed with regard to application of moisturising cream and massage to help the swelling and the bruising to settle.

What are the complications of lower lid blepharoplasty?

• Upper lid blepharoplasty has the risk of the following complications.
• Bleeding and haematoma formation
• Infection
• Visible scarring
• White cysts developing along the scar line (very rare)
• Asymmetry
• Need for adjustment
• Epiphora – watering of the eye
• Chemosis – swelling and imflammation of the conjunctiva (covering of the eye)
• Lagophthalmos – This occurs when too much skin is remove or there is excess scarring and the eyelids do not close properly
• Blindness – very very very rare