As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, and our muscles weaken, causing the signs of aging to appear on the face, especially the eyelids, where the loose skin accumulates as folds in the upper lids and forms deepening creases in the lower lids. Moreover, the weakened facial muscles allow the fat that cushions the eyes to protrude forward and give the appearance of bagginess in the lower lids.
What is blepharoplasty surgery?
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that raises drooping upper eyelids and reduces bagginess from lower eyelids. Blepharoplasty is commonly a cosmetic procedure; however, in some cases, an ophthalmologist may suggest this effective method for improving sight in patients who have saggy upper eyelids that obstruct their side vision.
Eyelid surgery can be combined with other facial procedures such as a facelift, brow lift, or skin resurfacing. If the upper eyelid droops close to the eye’s pupil, the surgeon may combine the blepharoplasty with a procedure called ptosis (toe-sis) repair. This procedure provides additional support to the eyebrow muscle.
Indications for upper eyelid surgery (upper blepharoplasty):
- Drooping upper eyelids
- Excess skin on upper eyelids that obstructs side vision (peripheral vision)
- Excess fatty tissue on upper eyelids
Indications for lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty):
- Excess skin on the lower eyelids
- Bags under the eyes
- Loss of volume in the nasojugal groove
How to prepare for eyelid surgery?
During your consultation with our plastic surgeon, they will review your medical history, perform a physical exam to check your eyes, face and skin, discuss your cosmetic goals and expectations about the procedure and explain the surgery in detail so you can make an informed decision.
How is the surgery performed?
Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anesthetic or general anesthetic.
- Upper Eyelids. The surgeon makes incisions that follow the natural lines of the eyelids (the creases of the upper lids) to remove excess skin, muscle and possibly fat. Once finished, the surgeon will close the incisions with either medical sutures or surgical glue.
- Lower Eyelids. The surgeon will create an incision just below the patient’s lashes, in the eyes natural crease, or inside the lower eyelid. Then, the surgeon will remove or redistribute excess skin, muscle, and fat. The incision is then closed with surgical glue or sutures.
What to expect after the surgery?
The doctor will prescribe some antibiotics to keep the wound clean. You will be able to go home on the same day or after one night stay in the hospital. If you do go home on the same day, you should ask a friend or family member to stay with you for the night. Over-the-counter painkillers should be enough to keep you comfortable. After the surgery, you should not drive until you have recovered feeling, movement, and coordination.
The surgeon will remove the stitches after three to five days, and you will be able to use make-up soon after.
After surgery, your eyelids may look and feel tight when closed because of the swelling and because excess skin has been removed. If you cannot completely close your eyes at night, you should apply some eye ointment before bed. This tightness will ease as the swelling subsides.
Don’t be alarmed if you have watery eyes after your eyelid surgery; this is common and happens due to the swelling under the conjunctiva and the swelling of the tear ducts that prevents them from draining properly. Your surgeon will prescribe eye drops to help to ease the feeling of grittiness.
Recovery after eyelid surgery
Our surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your eyelids after surgery, and our medical staff will ensure that you recover quickly and smoothly. It is recommended that you take two weeks off work after your surgery. You will be able to do light exercises and activities after one or two weeks but avoid lifting heavy objects for several weeks and avoid intercourse for at least two weeks.
When can I see the result?
After surgery, your eyelids are too tight and swollen, and you will have some bruising. It can take a few weeks for the swelling to settle and several months for the result to appear.
The scars will be pink for a few months, but eventually, they become almost invisible.
The results of blepharoplasty are long-lasting and natural. The surgery improves the appearance of the eyelids, and most patients do not feel the need to undergo a second procedure. The results can vary between patients based on different factors, such as their age, but we find that most people are happy with the results of blepharoplasty, which should last between 10-15 years.
How much does blepharoplasty cost?
The cost of eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) in Dubai starts from AED 15,000 but can vary depending on the technique used, complexity of the procedure and other factors. During your consultation with our expert plastic surgeon, you can get a personalized estimate based on your specific needs and learn about the financing options available.
Book Your consultation at Novomed today!
If you are interested in blepharoplasty in Dubai, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. We will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals, and provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your journey.
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