Blepharoplasty - eyelid surgery.

Cosmetic operation of the eyelids removes the excess of fat and wrinkled, dropping skin of the upper eyelids, which may give the face the impression of permanent tiredness or sadness. It also eliminates bags under the eyes and stretches the skin of the lower eyelid. This results in a fresh and relaxed facial expression.

Eyelid surgery may be combined with face lifting or other rejuvenating facial operations. Some people inherit features which cause that they decide on eyelid surgery as early as in their 20-30s.

Fat and flabby skin are removed from the upper eyelid through incisions which are hidden in the natural angle of the eyelids. The incision extends slightly above the external angle of the eye, where it is practically invisible among mimic creases and other skin folds at the corners of the eyes. If the eyelid problem is accompanied by dropping eyebrows, the plastic surgeon may recommend eyebrow lifting.

Treatment of the lower eyelid often requires incision that is hidden just below the line of eyelashes. Through this incision the excess skin, muscle and fat is removed or regulated. It is also possible to dislocate the fatty tissue in such a way as to eliminate swelling and oedema. If there is no excessive skin on the lower eyelid, the plastic surgeon may decide to use another technique in which fat is removed through an incision running inside the eyelid, from the side of the conjunctivae.

After the procedure, the patient should expect swelling and oedema which persist for about a week or slightly longer. Vision may be blurred for several days and the patient should wear sunglasses to protect the eyes against wind and sunlight. After a week the residual, gradually disappearing bruising may be concealed under the make-up. The patient may resume work after about 10 days.