BLEPHAROPLASTY (EYELID SURGERY)

PDF Version Aftercare PDF

 

WHAT IS EYELID SURGERY?CANDIDATES FOR EYELID SURGERYGENERAL INFORMATIONRECOVERY

EYELID SURGERY RESULTSEYELID SURGERY RISKS AND SAFETY

 

 

WHAT IS EYELID SURGERY?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that improve the appearance of eyelids.  This procedure can be performed on either the upper or lower eyelid, or it can be performed on both lids.  Blepharoplasty surgery can drastically improve the appearance of your eyes and face.  This surgery is also performed in order to help people who are experiencing functional problems with their eyelids. 

Eyelid surgery can treat:

  • Sagging skin(Ptosis) that creates folds or changes the shape of the natural eyelid which can impair vision.  
  • Excess fat in eyelids that create puffiness.
  • Bags under the eyes.
  • Drooping lower eyelids.
  • Excess skin lower eyelid

 

CANDIDATES FOR EYELID SURGERY

In general, good candidates for eyelid surgery include:

  • Healthy individuals 
  • Non-smokers
  • Patients without serious eye conditions

Dr van Rooyen will evaluate your anatomy thoroughly to determine the causes of your eyelid appearance, and what procedures might best remedy them. 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • The Upper Lid Blepharoplasty is usually performed in our rooms in a small surgery room under local anaesthetic and sedation.
  • The Lower Lid and Combination Blepharoplasty is usually performed the the Erasmuskloof Cure Day Clinic under general anaesthetic.
  • Arrange with someone to drive you home after the surgery.
  • If your procedure is in our rooms, you may have a small breakfast.
  • If your procedure is in the Cure Day Clinic under general anaesthetic you are not allowed to eat or drink anything for 9 hours before your surgery.
  • Please read the aftercare instructions thoroughly.
  • The stitches should be removes 5-7 days post procedure.  Please contact the rooms to schedule this appointment.

 

RECOVERY AFTER EYELID SURGERY

You will receive a lubricating ointment and/or special eyedrops script from Dr van Rooyen.

Download the aftercare document for special instructions on how to care for your eyes and specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your overall health.

It is normal to experience swelling, bruising, irritation, stinging pain or dry eyes, and discomfort.  These symptoms can be controlled with medication, cold compresses, and ointment/drops. 

It is important to refrain from too much sun exposure by wearing darkly tinted sunglasses and applying sunscreen.

 

EYELID SURGERY RESULTS

The results of eyelid surgery will be long-lasting. Your final results will appear within several weeks, but it may take up to a year for incision lines to fully refine. While eyelid surgery can be expected to correct certain conditions permanently, you will continue to age naturally. Life-long sun protection will help to maintain your results.

Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover from surgery.   As swelling and bruising subside, the results of eyelid surgery will reveal a smooth, better-defined eyelid and surrounding region and an alert and rejuvenated appearance.

Although good results are expected from your procedure, there is no guarantee.  In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedure and another surgery may be necessary.

Following Dr van Rooyen's instructions is essential to the success of your surgery.  It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing.

Take note of any other special instructions that Dr van Rooyen gives you.

 

EYELID SURGERY RISKS AND SAFETY

Make sure that you understand what the surgery and recovery entails. Do not hesitate to ask Dr van Rooyen questions.

Eyelid surgery risks include:

  • Anesthesia risks
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Bleeding from the incision lines
  • Dryness to the eyes
  • Sensitivity to sun or other bright light
  • Difficulty closing your eyes
  • Ectropion, an outward rolling of the eyelid
  • Infection
  • Lid lag, a pulling down of the lower eyelid may occur and is often temporary
  • Temporary or even permanent change in vision, and very rare chance of blindness
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Pain, which may persist
  • Poor wound healing
  • Possible need for revision surgery
  • Unfavorable scarring

 

 

NOTICE: We DO NOT give quotations telephonically or via e-mail.  For any quotations or prices the patient is required to consult with the doctor first, only thereafter will we be able to give the patient a quotation or estimate.  Thank you for your co-operation.