Blepharoplasty or eyelid lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery procedure designed to correct aesthetic and functional imperfections of the eyelids. While the procedure offers excellent benefits, the patient should consider its inherent risks and side effects before making a final decision.
An experienced surgeon will make the patient aware of the potential risks and complications and help them to make an informed choice. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman provides eyelid surgery to patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding communities.
Potential Serious Complications
Eyelid lift, just like any other cosmetic surgery, comes with certain risks and potential complications that will vary in severity. Some of the most severe complications include hematoma, ectropian, and retinal detachment. However, the chances of occurrence of such complications are extremely rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced and fully qualified surgeon.
Ectropian is a drooping effect that will create inversion of the lower lid. Additional surgery will be required to correct this condition. Hematoma is a more serious complication where the blood tends to collect under the skin. The risk of hematoma may be higher when eyelid surgery is combined with another facial surgery such as brow lift or facelift.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina is separated from the external layers of the eye. This can occur due to holes or tears in the retina. This condition will also require additional surgery to correct it.
Other Potential Complications
Additional complications that may arise from blepharoplasty include infection, unfavorable scarring, excessive tearing, poor reaction to anesthesia, and dryness or burning of the eyes, both of which may be treated with artificial tear drops. In some cases, whiteheads or milia may form after sutures are removed.
Some patients may experience difficulty in keeping eyes closed while sleeping. Although this condition is temporary for most patients, in rare cases it may become permanent. Patients may occasionally report double vision or blurred vision, but in most cases, this condition will subside in a few days. Established plastic surgeon Dr. Kaufman receives patients from Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and nearby areas for blepharoplasty.
Common Side Effects
Some of the common and temporary side effects of eyelid surgery include:
Pain
The severity of post-operative pain in blepharoplasty will usually depend on the patient’s health and the surgeon’s skill. Eyes will typically feel tight and sore once the effect of anesthesia wears off. The surgeon will prescribe pain medications for a few days to mitigate the intensity of pain and remove discomfort.
Swelling
Swelling will mostly occur around the incision areas following blepharoplasty. Iced eye pads or cold compresses may be used in the first few days to minimize swelling. However, care should be taken to avoid rupturing the incisions when the pads or compresses are applied. The patient should also keep the head in elevated position for a few days to reduce swelling.
Scarring
The surgeon’s skill and experience will play a role in determining the extent of visible scarring following eyelid surgery. Some degree of scarring is unavoidable after the procedure, but most scars will fade over time and become inconspicuous to the casual observer.
To learn more about cosmetic treatment and procedures or to schedule a consultation by Cleveland Ohio area plastic surgeon, Dr. Bram Kaufman, please contact us at 1-216-778-2245 or click here.