Eyelid lift Health Article

Definition

Eyelid lift surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is done to repair sagging or drooping upper eyelids (ptosis).

Alternative Names

Blepharoplasty

Description

Sagging or drooping eyelids occur naturally with increasing age. However, some people are born with droopy eyelids or develop diseases (such as myasthenia gravis) that cause eyelid drooping.

An eyelid lift is usually done while you are awake. You will be given medicine to relieve anxiety. The surgeon will inject numbing medicine around the eye so you do not feel pain during the surgery.

The surgeon will make tiny cuts into the natural creases or folds of the eyelids, and then remove any loose skin and extra fat tissue. After tightening the eyelid muscles, the surgeon places stitches in the area.

Eyelid repair surgery rarely requires a hospital stay. The surgery is done in a surgeon's office or as outpatient surgery in a medical center.

Why the Procedure Is Performed

An eyelid lift is needed for those who have excessive eyelid drooping that interferes with vision.

Some people have an eyelid lift to improve their appearance. This is called cosmetic or elective surgery. The eyelid lift may be done alone or with other facial surgery such as a browlift or facelift.

Eyelid surgery will not remove wrinkles around the eyes, lift sagging eyebrows, or eliminate dark circles under the eyes.

Risks

Risks of an eyelid lift may include:

• Difficulty closing the eyes while sleeping (rarely permanent)
• Double or blurred vision
• Temporary swelling of the eyelids
• Tiny whiteheads after stitches are removed
• Slow healing
• Uneven healing or scarring

Medical conditions that make blepharoplasty more risky are:

• Diabetes
• Dry eye or not enough tear production
• Heart disease or disorders of the blood vessels
• High blood pressure or other circulatory disorders
• Thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism and Graves' disease

The risks for any anesthesia include:

• Breathing problems
• Reactions to medications

The risks for any surgery include:

• Bleeding
• Infection

After the Procedure

Scars may remain slightly pink for 6 months or more after surgery. They will fade eventually to a thin, nearly invisible white line. The more alert and youthful look usually lasts for years. These results are permanent for many people.