The eyes are the part of the face that we are most drawn to when communicating and as such, the appearance of the eyes and peri-orbital area can give impressions of tiredness, ageing or even anger to others when you may be feeling far from these things.

Eyelid rejuvenation procedures such as upper and lower blepharoplasty can reduce skin or fat excess in the eyelids and improve the heaviness and tired appearance in this area.

Upper blepharoplasty involves removal of skin, muscle and at times excess fat in the upper eyelid that descends with ageing. It can restore a distinct upper eyelid fold and restore visual field obstruction in severe cases. The procedure is typically performed conveniently in office under local anaesthesia however can also be offered as an in-hospital operation under sedation if preferred.

Lower blepharoplasty focuses on fat removal and redistribution to smooth the contours of the lower eyelid / cheek junction or 'tear trough' area. While a small amount of skin is usually removed this is typically far less than an upper blepharoplasty as excess removal can have significant complications. As the dissection involves deeper tissues this operation is only performed under general anaesthesia in hospital and typically lasts between 1-2 hours as a day surgery procedure. 

Your initial consultation for a blepharoplasty will begin with a discussion regarding your goals for the operation. Be as detailed as possible and come prepared with any questions that you would like answered about the procedure. You will also have photos taken for the consultation Dr Ahn will be able to use instruments to simulate the desired changes to allow you to gain a better idea of how your eyes will appear post operatively. Dr. Ahn will explain the procedure and possible complications in detail and you will be required to attend a secondary consultation prior to finalising your decision to allow you to ask any further questions you may have.

All surgery carries risks and those specific to this procedure will be discussed with you during your consultation and also provided in your consent paperwork. Possible risks of an upper or lower blepharoplasty procedure include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Asymmetry
• Numbness
• Ectropion (lower eyelid eversion)
• Blurred vision
• Blindness (rare)

It is expected that you see bruising and swelling for some time and your eyes will feel tight and have some limitation in movement. Most patients will require 2 weeks off typical daily activities such as work and light exercise. The recovery after eyelid operations is usually comfortable enough to require simple oral analgesia only.  After your 2 week review, most daily activities including a return to work are possible however you may opt to schedule some further time off until swelling improves. You will be advised to refrain from contact sports or heavy lifting for 6 weeks. 

If you are interested in a consultation for a blepharoplasty procedure, please contact us or call 1300 008 098 for your consultation