This page contains information about cosmetic surgery. It is intended for adults aged 18 years and over. Decisions about cosmetic surgery require careful consideration. All surgery carries risks and individual results vary.
Blepharoplasty Overview
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure involving the upper or lower eyelids. It may be considered in situations where changes in the eyelid skin or underlying tissues cause functional concerns or interfere with visual fields. It may also be considered by adults who wish to alter the appearance of the eyelid region.
This information provides a general description of the procedure. It does not replace a consultation, where individual circumstances, suitability, risks and alternatives are discussed in detail.
General Indications for Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty may be discussed in the following situations:
- Eyelid skin redundancy where excess upper eyelid skin folds over the lashes or interferes with the field of vision.
- Changes in eyelid contour related to skin or tissue laxity.
- Changes in peri-orbital fat causing fullness in the eyelid region.
- Functional issues such as heaviness or obstruction of the upper visual field.
These features can occur as part of natural variation or ageing and do not necessarily require treatment. Surgery is an elective option and is not required for cosmetic reasons.
Blepharoplasty Operation
During a blepharoplasty:
- Anaesthesia: General or local anaesthesia may be used.
- Incisions: Incisions are placed along natural eyelid creases or within the lower eyelid margin depending on the approach.
- Tissue adjustment: Skin, muscle or fat may be removed or repositioned.
- Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures.
The exact approach depends on clinical findings and is discussed during consultation. Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
Recovery After Blepharoplasty
Recovery experiences differ between patients. General expectations may include:
- Swelling and bruising: These are common and reduce gradually over time.
- Discomfort: Some tightness or discomfort can occur.
- Activity modification: Rest is usually required in the early postoperative period, with avoidance of strenuous activity as advised.
- Follow-up: Scheduled reviews allow monitoring of healing and discussion of any concerns.
Complete recovery timelines vary between individuals.
A Note Regarding Combined Procedures
Blepharoplasty may sometimes be performed at the same time as other facial procedures. The suitability, risks and expected recovery for combined procedures are assessed individually. Combined surgery may increase operative time and carries additional considerations. A consultation is required before any decision is made.
Surgical Risks
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Please note that all surgical procedures carry risks, including the possibility of complications during and after surgery.
While high standards of medical care and safety are always our priority, individual results and recovery times may vary. Each patient’s experience is unique based on their medical history, condition, and other factors. We strongly encourage you to discuss any concerns and the specific risks related to your procedure with Dr Griffin during your consultation. This discussion will provide you with detailed information tailored to your personal health profile and help you make an informed decision.
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised diagnosis and treatment.
General Operative and Anaesthetic risks
- Acute medical event: Heart or lung complications (e.g. heart attack, stroke, chest infection)
- Death
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Embolisms (PE)
- A sore throat/breathing difficulty due to the general aesthetic or the endotracheal tube, which can cause swelling, noisy breathing or discomfort
- Short-term nausea following general anaesthesia
- Wound infection, which may result in treatment with antibiotics or further treatment/surgery. This is more likely in a smoker or a person with diabetes.
- Heavy bleeding from the wound, which may result in further treatment/surgery
- Wound discharge
- Poor or slow healing of the skin; wound breakdown; skin necrosis
- Wound dehiscence (wound ruptures along the surgical incision)
- Bruising and swelling. This will start to subside in one to two weeks but can take up to several months to settle
- Abscess/Haematoma/Seroma/Oedema
- Pain and discomfort
- Allergic reaction to sutures, dressing, antiseptic solutions
- Altered or loss of sensation in and around the treated area, which may persist for some months, numbness maybe permanent
- Adverse scarring
- Revisionary surgery
- Psychological impact of change in appearance
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic appearance
Specific Procedure Risks
- Skin necrosis
- Haematoma
- Seroma
- Swelling and bruising
- Asymmetry
- Blindness
- Permanent double vision
- Parasthesia (may be numbness or tingling)
Post-op Instructions
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If you are considering Blepharoplasty, a consultation is required to assess individual concerns, discuss treatment options and review risks, recovery expectations and alternatives.
