Eyelid lift (Blepharoplasty) guide

Description

Of all the plastic surgical procedures, blepharoplasty is second only to rhinoplasty in complexity and demand for technical precision. Furthermore, it carries a potential risk of blindness, the most morbid complication of any cosmetic procedure other than death. Therefore, detailed planning and meticulous execution are essential for a successful outcome.

Blepharoplasty addresses excess skin and sometimes fat and muscle of the upper and lower eyelids. Both structures are different and addressed differently. Approaches also vary (particularly for lower eyelids) depending on what specific tissue excess is being addressed.

A thorough evaluation of the patient’s anatomy and ophthalmic history is critical and visual complications can be very challenging to address. This mandates the procedure be performed by well-trained and experienced surgeons who understand and can properly manage all potential complications.

Hundreds of thousands of blepharoplasties are performed safely annually, perhaps because of the relatively low time commitment, a broader range of practitioners trained to perform the procedure (occuloplastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons and plastic surgeons). It is also a “gateway” procedure for most potential aesthetic surgery patients since it often requires little to no sedation to perform. As with any procedure, keen attention to detail in selecting the right surgeon is critical.