What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure which can be performed on either the upper or lower eyelids or both and is designed to remove excess skin folds and bulging fat bags. Blepharoplasty will improve the bags and wrinkles around the eyes but will not improve wrinkles of the cheeks, temples or forehead. It also does not correct problems caused by drooping eyebrows.

When is Blepharoplasty desirable?

You may wish to have a blepharoplasty to improve your overall facial appearance, or to help correct the effects of aging, and this may be combined with a facelift. Redundant upper eyelid skin can obscure vision and this can be corrected by blepharoplasty. Weakness in the supporting structures of the lower eyelid can be improved with blepharoplasty and in some instances a medicare rebate is available.

How could this procedure help me?

A consultation with Dr. John Flynn is the first step when you are considering a blepharoplasty. You should frankly discuss your goals and expectations about looking and feeling better after surgery. You should always keep in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection.

How is Blepharoplasty performed?

The procedure will vary depending on your physical features, the amount of skin and fat to be removed, and Dr. Flynn's judgment. Usually, upper and lower eyelid incisions are marked along natural lines, and may extend into the "crows feet", or smile lines, at the outer edge of the eye. Following removal of excess skin and fat, the incisions are carefully closed. The procedure may take 1-2 hours. Lower blepharoplasty can be performed from the inside of the eyelid. This will not leave a visible scar on the outside but also does not tighten the skin. This particular procedure is for removal of fat only from around the eye.

Will the procedure leave any scars?

Scars are the inevitable result of any surgery, although your Dr Flynn will make every effort to keep your scars as inconspicuous as possible. Thus the scars will be along natural skin lines and creases and will usually fade with time and become barely noticeable.

How important are psychological factors in relation to a blepharoplasty?

Emotional stability is the primary factor to be considered before any cosmetic surgery is performed. A "new face" does not guarantee a new life or an end to all personal problems. It is mostly the mental attitude of the individual that determines a successful outcome. A Blepharoplasty can improve your appearance and renew your self-confidence, the rest is entirely up to you.

What results can I expect?

A successful operation should give you a more youthful and rested appearance. Skin folds and fat bulges will be removed and eyelid creases improved. To correct drooping eyebrows or creases of the forehead, temple or cheeks, other procedures such as a facelift or a brow lift should be considered. Perfect symmetry cannot be guaranteed, as the two sides of our faces are usually not identical.

You may have some bruising and swelling around your eyes, lasting approximately two or three weeks. Temporary blurred vision and excessive tear production may also occur. Paradoxically, sometimes patients can have dry eyes for a while after blepharoplasty. You should follow Dr Flynn's advice carefully to reduce the risk of complications. Dr Flynn will discuss any other specific side effects of this procedure at your consultation. Permanent vision loss is a tragic but extremely rare complication.

When can I resume normal activities?

Most patients are able to return to work after 7-10 days (perhaps wearing sunglasses). Cosmetics can also be applied at this time but you must remember to protect your skin from the sun.