What is Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, involves the removal of sagging skin on the eyelids. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, and the muscles beneath begin to weaken. The skin around the eyes is more delicate compared to other parts of the body, and the first signs of aging often appear here. Factors like gravity, external influences, and advancing age can lead to sagging skin and the formation of bags under the eyes. These issues make the face appear older. Eyelid surgery is performed to correct these aesthetic imperfections.

A treatment plan is prepared according to the patient’s needs. This surgery addresses genetic factors around the eyes, droopy eyelids, fat bags, and tear troughs.

How is Eyelid Surgery Performed?

The procedure, whether for cosmetic or functional reasons, can be applied to the upper, lower, or both eyelids, depending on the patient’s condition. The surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia, with the duration varying from person to person.

Upper Eyelid Surgery Excess skin and fatty tissue in the area are excised. The incision is made along the eyelid’s fold, ensuring no visible scars post-surgery.

Lower Eyelid Surgery The skin is lifted, and the fat in the area is spread under the eyes. Excess muscle and skin are then removed. The incision is made just below the eyelashes, ensuring no scars after the procedure. If there are issues like hollows and depressions in the under-eye area, fat injection treatments can be used.

Who is Eyelid Surgery Suitable For?

Issues with the eyelids can narrow the field of vision and cause a feeling of heaviness, asymmetry, and fatigue in the eyes. These under-eye problems can also make someone appear older than their actual age. Blepharoplasty is done to correct wrinkles, sagging, bags, hollows, and depressions around the eyes.

Those with these issues in both the upper and lower regions of the eyes can opt for blepharoplasty. As sagging and wrinkles are more pronounced in older age, patients often turn to this surgery for relief. Additionally, patients with excess eyelid skin can also benefit from this procedure.

People who choose this surgery typically complain about excessive fat bags and a tired facial expression. These issues negatively affect one’s appearance and can have psychological impacts. With eyelid treatments, these problems are addressed, giving the patient a rejuvenated appearance.

What are the Signs of Aging on the Upper Eyelids?

With aging, the skin loses its elasticity, and the elastic structures in the body diminish. Excess skin tends to accumulate, especially on the eyelids. One of the most prominent signs of aging appears on the eyelids. Excess skin gathering on the eyelids can give a tired and listless look. Signs of aging on both the lower and upper eyelids include: Droopiness on the upper eyelid  Sagging and loosening of the eyelid skin Color changes under the eyes Formation of bags under the eyes . A tired facial expression Wrinkles forming at the corners of the eyes

When is Upper Eyelid Surgery Performed?

There are certain situations in which eyelid procedures should be performed. These include:  Excess skin on the upper eyelid  Weakness in the muscle and connective tissue under the skin  Sagging in fat tissue Drooping of the tear gland  Relaxation of the lower eyelid Fatty bulges  Excess skin  Sagging in the cheeks  Eyelashes and eyelid edges turning inwards  Eyelid losing contact with the eye  Outer edges of the lower eyelid turning outwards  Redness and watering due to the eyelid.

What is Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid procedures involve the removal of sagging skin and excess tissue. Additionally, the tissues of the eyelid are tightened. Multiple factors can cause deformities in the eyelids, such as exposure to sunlight, air pollution, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Eyelid surgeries are used to address these issues.

The upper eyelid surgery is performed as follows: In some patients, only skin tissue is removed, while in others, different surgeries are also applied.  Local anesthesia is applied when removing skin tissue. If a different treatment method will be applied, general anesthesia is administered.  The procedure is performed in a sterile environment and takes about an hour to an hour and a half.

After upper eyelid surgery: The recovery period isn’t very long, typically ranging from 10-14 days.  After the recovery period, patients achieve a better field of vision and a more aesthetic appearance around the eyelids. There may be a small scar left after the surgery, but it’s generally so small that it goes unnoticed.

At What Age is Upper Eyelid Surgery Performed?

Generally, eyelid surgeries are performed for individuals aged 35 and above, primarily because signs of aging appear after this age. However, problems can sometimes arise at younger ages. Although the surgery doesn’t halt aging, it minimizes its effects. The results of the surgery typically last for 8-10 years. After the surgery, tired, dull, and lifeless expressions disappear, replaced by a youthful and healthy appearance.

Pre-operative Considerations

Consult with a specialist and ask any questions you may have. The specialist should provide a detailed explanation of the entire process. Stop taking blood-thinning medications 2-3 weeks before the procedure. Avoid smoking and alcohol for a certain period. Stop consuming green tea and other herbal products before the surgery as they can increase bleeding. Stop taking painkillers and vitamin E two weeks before the procedure. Quit smoking two weeks before the procedure, as it affects wound healing and surgery outcomes. It’s crucial for the patient to be in good general health before the surgery. Any medications being taken should be communicated to the doctor.

What is the Recovery Process After Surgery Like?

Patients are generally discharged on the same day of the procedure. The post-operative period is typically comfortable. After the surgery, there may be some bruising and swelling around the eyelids, which can be treated with ice. These side effects usually disappear within a week. Light exercises can be resumed two days after the surgery. Makeup can be applied 10 days after the procedure. Stitches are typically removed on the fifth day. Normal activities can be resumed after a week. Edema completely recedes after two weeks. During this time, exposure to sunlight should be avoided.  The recovery period isn’t painful. It’s essential to have post-operative check-ups and follow the doctor’s recommendations closely for a successful recovery.

2023 Eyelid Surgery Prices

The prices for procedures on the eyelids vary depending on the scope, technique, and content of the process. Several factors can change the costs of these treatments. These include the location of the treatment center, being performed by different doctors, and the pricing policies of the centers. Another fundamental factor that affects prices is the combination of other operations. Other procedures can also be performed during the eyelid treatment process. As a result, different price ranges can be observed for the process. To determine a specific price, it is necessary to decide in advance where the procedure will take place and obtain information about the eyelid treatment process. However, for an exact price, one should contact the center where the eyelid surgery will be performed and then get examined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Eyelid Ptosis Surgery Difficult?

As with many surgical procedures, there are some risks involved. However, these risks are not serious and disappear after the procedure. In addition, anesthesia is applied during eyelid procedures, and the patient does not feel any pain during the operation. There is a recovery period after the surgery. If the doctor’s recommendations are followed, this process passes comfortably and smoothly. Therefore, eyelid ptosis procedures are not challenging.

Does Eyelid Ptosis Impair Vision?

The sagging of skin and tissue on the eyelid is referred to as pseudoptosis. This condition can restrict or completely impair vision. Eyelid surgeries are performed to address problems that cause a person’s vision to deteriorate. Thus, after the procedure, the person can easily see their surroundings. This procedure also helps improve aesthetics.

Does Eyelid Ptosis Cause Headaches?

When the eyelid droops, the brain instructs the muscles to lift the eyelids to maintain vision. These muscles, which work excessively throughout a regular day, begin to tire. This fatigue of the muscles results in headaches, especially intense in the forehead area. Therefore, it’s crucial to address the problem of eyelid ptosis.

Is Eyelid Ptosis Genetic?

Generally speaking, eyelid ptosis is not a genetic disorder. However, in some individuals, eyelid ptosis is inherited. In rare cases of ptosis due to muscle dystrophies, genetic factors play a role. Muscle laxity is related to collagen and elasticity. Particularly in family members with similar collagen, a similar eyelid ptosis can be observed. However, the presence of this condition in other family members should not be considered a genetically transmitted disorder.

Can Eyelid Ptosis Occur After Eye Surgeries?

During eye surgeries, procedures are done to open the eye, such as the insertion of a speculum or injections. After these techniques or certain interventions, eyelid ptosis can occur. Moreover, temporary eyelid ptosis can also occur after botox injections to the upper eyelid.

Does Eyelid Ptosis Go Away on Its Own? How Does It Pass?

Muscle relaxation and congenital eyelid ptosis conditions do not resolve on their own. However, there are some exceptional cases. If eyelid ptosis occurs due to trauma and there’s no muscle nerve damage, the ptosis can resolve itself within a few months. After a botox procedure, eyelid ptosis can also correct itself without any harm. A rare condition is eyelid ptosis due to contact lens use. After discontinuing the use of the lenses for a certain period, partial or complete recovery is observed.

How Long is the Eyelid Aesthetic Surgery Duration?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The total time required for both the lower and upper eyelids is 1-1.5 hours. In the upper eyelid procedure, the excess sagging skin is cut and removed. In the lower eyelid procedure, the operation starts from the lower eyelashes, and the fats causing puffiness are removed. This procedure aims to address not just one issue but all wear and tear and problems.

Is There a Chance of Eyelid Ptosis Recurring?

The recurrence of eyelid ptosis is not a concern. However, new deformities can emerge in the eyelid area due to the progression of age. Since it occurs due to aging, it’s quite natural.

Is it Safe to Undergo Upper Eyelid Surgery in the Summer?

Most surgical procedures can comfortably be performed in any season, including eyelid treatments. Due to the aesthetic nature of these procedures, many individuals ponder about the ideal timing for the surgery. Many prefer to undergo such procedures during times when they might be less busy, often in the summer months. However, undergoing eyelid surgery during the summer can pose certain risks. Still, as long as the patient diligently follows post-operative precautions, there’s no harm in having eyelid surgery during the summer.

Is Upper Eyelid Surgery (blepharoplasty) Permanent?

The results of this procedure are known to last for many years. However, individual care, lifestyle, and genetic factors can affect the longevity of the results. If a person has very elastic skin, smokes excessively, or has predisposed genetic factors, they might need another eyelid surgery in the future. When performed with the right technique and care, the results can last a very long time. Adhering to the doctor’s advice can also extend the duration of the results. With time and the effects of gravity, sagging might reoccur in the skin.

Is There an Age Limit for Blepharoplasty?

There isn’t typically an age limit for eyelid procedures. Due to genetic factors, issues such as skin excess can be seen even in individuals in their twenties. Although surgery might not always be recommended at a young age, these problems can exacerbate with time. Whether to undergo the procedure depends on the individual and the doctor’s assessments. It’s generally considered more suitable to undergo this procedure at an older age.

Is Upper Eyelid Surgery (blepharoplasty) Risky?

While risks are minimal, they do exist. Small scars can remain post-surgery, but the key is to have these scars as aesthetically pleasing as possible. Surgical incisions might be visible for a few months but will fade to match the skin tone afterward. Infections, bleeding, and edema can also occur. In particular, edema can sometimes close the eyelids. Such issues are temporary and can be easily rectified.

What is the Recovery Process for Blepharoplasty?

The recovery process isn’t very long. Mild bruising and swelling may occur post-operation but are temporary and usually subside within a few weeks. Regular check-ups and adhering to the doctor’s advice are essential during recovery. Within approximately two weeks, significant recovery can be observed. It’s advised to avoid touching the operated area frequently and to abstain from using creams and makeup for a certain period post-surgery.

How Many Days After Blepharoplasty Can I Shower?

After undergoing eyelid procedures, certain precautions, like avoiding showers, are advised. Typically, a waiting period of 24 hours is recommended before taking a shower as it can increase the risk of infection. After the completion of 2 days, and with the doctor’s approval, one can resume showering.

Will I Experience Pain After Eyelid Surgery?

Post-surgery, mild headaches and aches can occur. To alleviate these symptoms, medications prescribed by the doctor should be taken. In addition to headaches and aches, post-operative effects such as bruising, redness, swelling, and edema can also occur but typically subside within a week. Since the procedures are performed under anesthesia, no pain or discomfort is felt during the operation.

Will There Be Scars After Eyelid Surgery?

Whether scars remain post-surgery depends on several factors. The surgeon’s skill and technique play a significant role. The skin of the eyelids is usually thin, making scars less noticeable after healing. Any post-operative scars tend to fade over time, which can sometimes take up to a year. If the procedure is performed on the lower eyelid, scars tend to appear just below the eyelashes and resemble skin creases.

Apart from Cosmetic Concerns, When Do You Recommend the Procedure?

In addition to aesthetic reasons, eyelid procedures are also essential for functional reasons. Over time, excess skin can lead to conditions like eyelid droopiness. Such conditions can, at times, impair vision. To prevent these issues and ensure continued functionality, eyelid procedures are essential.

When Can You Return to Normal Life After Surgery?

After eyelid procedures, there’s a specific recovery period. During this time, the patient shouldn’t engage in any strenuous activities and should rest extensively. Following the advice and recommendations of the expert doctor during this recovery period can speed up the healing process. The recovery period generally spans about 2 weeks. Once this period is completed, an individual can return to their normal life. Even after returning to their daily routines, one should continue to take care of the operated area.

Is The Effect Long-Lasting?

The duration of the procedure’s effect is approximately 10 years. After 10 years, the effectiveness begins to fade gradually. The force of gravity contributes to an individual’s aging. Therefore, these procedures do not guarantee permanence for a lifetime. However, the duration of the operation’s impact can vary from person to person. Especially the structure of the patient’s eyelids and their genetics play a role in the effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, making changes to one’s lifestyle after the operation and leading a more positive life can extend the impact of the eyelid procedures.

Can You Take a Bath After Surgery? One of the matters that need caution after an eyelid surgery is bathing. It’s recommended not to take a bath for the first 3 days post-operation. If one does decide to take a bath, they should avoid using very hot water.