Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Risks Of Eyelid Surgery?
Any surgical procedure comes with some risks. Like any operation, blepharoplasty poses a risk of bleeding, infection, scarring and an adverse reaction to anaesthesia. It’s also possible to have an allergic reaction to the surgical tape or other materials used during or after the procedure. Elena will provide you with further information about the risks and provide you with a detailed consent form during your consultations. This will help you to minimise the risks.
What Care Is Taken Before And After Eyelid Surgery?
Following your initial consultation It is normal to have a second consultation, for you to ask any further questions, once you have had time to consider the different surgical options. After the decision is made, we will carefully prepare for your surgery. During this consultation, you will have a fully informed consent form instructing what to do before and after surgery for the best outcome. The Elena Prousskaia Clinic prides itself on the quality of its aftercare so we will make absolutely sure you know what to expect, and how much rest is needed. We will give you specific instructions that may include how to care for your eyes following surgery, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow-up with Elena.
Am I A Good Candidate For Blepharoplasty?
Most of our blepharoplasty patients are over 35 years old, however ultimately age does not matter. Elena will look at the condition of your skin regardless of age. Eyelid surgery is typically for those patients who are seeking to reduce droopy eyelids, or “bags” under the eyes, for a younger, more open-eyed look. However, the surgery has also a functional purpose in that some people’s eyelids are sagging to such a degree that it actually interferes with their vision. In these cases, the procedure can make a huge improvement to their daily life.
What Is The Recovery From Blepharoplasty Surgery?
In this first week there will be some puffiness or swelling around the eyes. This is completely normal and part of the post op healing process, and should subside within 7-10 days. The incisions around your eyes may be pink and quite visible, and your eyelids may feel numb for several days. Your eyes may also be watery, dry, and sensitive to light. You may also experience some tenderness and bruising around the eyes resulting in a “black eyed” appearance.
Some recommended tips for reducing the swelling around your eyes include:
• Sleep elevated on two pillows.
• Use cold compresses – especially in first few days.
• Avoid wearing contacts for this first week but glasses are okay.
• Drink plenty of water and fluids, but avoid alcohol.
• Eat a light healthy food that is low in salt.
• Rest, rest, and more rest.
You may also experience some double vision or blurriness a few days post op. Wear dark sunglasses during this period particularly if you’re going outdoors.
Can I have surgery if I wear Glasses?
If you wear contact lenses, you will not be able to wear these in the first days after surgery. As glasses make no direct contact with the eyes, they are safe to use. A patient’s focus will be on resting in those early days of recovery, which means avoiding strenuous physical activities as well as activities that may result in eyestrain. However if you go outdoors, be sure to wear sunglasses. This will hide your eyes from view after surgery has been performed and will also protect your eyelids from direct sun exposure.
How Long Does Surgery Take?
Generally speaking this surgery takes around 2.5 hours, although this varies depending on the nature of the procedure.
