Eyelid aesthetics, also known as blepharoplasty, is one of the three most common types of aesthetics in the world.
Eyelid surgery, briefly, involves the removal of excess skin accumulated on the upper and lower eyelids. This excess skin can give you a tired and aged appearance and sometimes restrict your field of vision.
What are the Symptoms and Causes of Eyelid Surgery?
Due to genetic factors and gravity, our eyelids can lose their elasticity and firmness over the years. Normally, the skin has an elastic structure, but its elasticity gradually decreases with age. As a result of this loss of elasticity, excess skin tends to accumulate first on the eyelids. Therefore, the initial signs of aging often appear on the eyelids. Age-related changes in the eyelids can cause a person to appear tired, dull, and older than they actually are.
Some of the signs of aging seen on the upper and lower eyelids include:
Bags and color change under the eyes
Droopy upper eyelid
Wrinkles and sagging of the eyelid skin
Crow's feet lines around the eyes
A tired facial expression
Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgeries are performed under local anesthesia, a combination of local anesthesia and sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the preference of your doctor and the area being treated. Blepharoplasty can be applied to either the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The duration of the operation can vary depending on the chosen method. When both upper and lower eyelids are operated on together, it typically takes about 1-2 hours. Excess skin to be removed is marked before the surgery. The removed skin is taken out following the natural eyelid crease, without altering the skin folding points. Very fine aesthetic stitches are used in eyelid aesthetics, aiming to leave no visible scars after healing.
Blepharoplasty Recovery Process
Patients are discharged from the hospital on the same day of blepharoplasty surgery. Typically, special adhesive strips are used rather than bandages. Mild discomfort and pain may be experienced post-operation, but these can be easily relieved with oral painkillers. There might be slight swelling and bruising around the eyes, for which ice compresses are recommended. Recovery and return to normal activities usually happen quickly after surgery. The protective adhesive strips are usually removed on the 3rd day, and stitches are taken out on the 5th day. Since the protective strips do not cover the eyes, patients can watch television, read books, and use computers. Generally, patients can go out after the 2nd or 3rd day, but they are advised to avoid strenuous exercises for 3-4 weeks.