Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure commonly referred to as “eyelid surgery.”

Is Blepharoplasty Right For You?

The procedure involves the precise removal of excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the eyelids.

There are two main types of blepharoplasty: upper and lower blepharoplasty. Dr Mistry only performs Upper Blepharoplasty.

Blepharoplasty of the upper eyelids is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, and in some cases fat or muscle, from the upper eyelid area.

Blepharoplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis and can be done under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s preferences. Dr Mistry can perform these in his room theatre under local anaesthesia. 

When considering blepharoplasty surgery with Dr Mistry, there are several important factors to take into account to ensure a successful procedure and satisfactory results. Here are some key things to consider:

• Realistic Expectations: Have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes of the surgery. Dr Mistry will explain what blepharoplasty can and cannot achieve and help you set reasonable expectations for the results.
• Surgical Plan: Dr Mistry should provide a detailed treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan should outline the surgical approach, expected recovery period, and potential risks associated with the procedure.
• Anaesthesia Options: Discuss anaesthesia options with Dr Mistry.
• Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and your comfort level.
• Smoking and Medications: Smoking can negatively impact the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you are a smoker, Dr Mistry may advise you to quit smoking several weeks before and after the surgery. Additionally, certain medications, such as blood-thinning drugs, herbal supplements, and aspirin, can increase the risk of bleeding.

Dr Mistry will provide guidelines on which medications to avoid before the surgery.

Possible Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, blepharoplasty carries potential risks and complications. Dr Mistry will discuss these risks during your consultation.

Some potential risks and complications of blepharoplasty include:

• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery is possible, though rare. It can lead to haematoma formation, where blood collects under the skin, requiring drainage.
• Infection: Infections at the incision sites are uncommon but can occur. They are typically treated with antibiotics.
• Scarring: While Dr Mistry uses techniques to minimise scarring, some scarring is inevitable. Most incisions are well-concealed in natural creases, but individual healing and scar formation can vary.
• Dry Eyes: Temporary or, rarely, long-term dryness of the eyes may occur after surgery. Artificial tears and other remedies can help manage dry eyes.
• Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry in eyelid surgery can be challenging, and subtle differences in size or shape may remain after surgery.
• Ectropion: Ectropion is a rare complication where the lower eyelids turn outward, leaving the eyes exposed and potentially causing irritation.
• Entropion: Entropion is another rare complication where the lower eyelids turn inward, leading to discomfort and irritation.
• Changes in Sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in sensation around the eyes and eyelids can occur, leading to numbness or altered sensitivity.
• Vision Changes: In extremely rare cases, there may be changes in vision, including blurriness or double vision. These usually resolve on their own or can be treated.
• Delayed Healing: Some individuals may experience delayed wound healing or wound separation, especially if they have certain medical conditions or habits, such as smoking.
• Anaesthesia Risks: General anaesthesia carries inherent risks, but adverse reactions to anaesthesia are uncommon.

After Surgery Recovery

Recovery following blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is an important part of the overall treatment process. Dr Mistry and his team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to assist you during healing. Generally, you can expect the following during your recovery period:

• Immediate Recovery: After the surgery, you may experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the eyes, which is normal.
• Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the treated area can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Dr Mistry will guide you on the appropriate use of cold compresses.
• Eyelid Ointment: You may be prescribed an ointment to apply to the incision sites to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
• Rest and Head Elevation: Rest is crucial during the initial recovery period. Keep your head elevated while sleeping to minimise swelling.
• Stitches Removal: If non-dissolvable sutures are used, they will be removed within a week or as advised by Dr Mistry.
• Eye Protection: Protect your eyes from sunlight and wind, especially during the first few weeks of recovery. Sunglasses can be helpful in shielding your eyes and reducing sensitivity.
• Avoiding Strain: Avoid activities that may strain your eyes, such as reading for extended periods, using digital screens excessively, or engaging in strenuous activities, during the early recovery phase.
• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after blepharoplasty but should gradually subside over the following weeks.

After blepharoplasty with Dr Mistry, patients will attend follow-up appointments for monitoring and addressing concerns. Most patients can resume normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, with residual swelling improving over time. Following post-operative instructions carefully can support your healing process and promote steady progress during recovery.

If you would like to enquire about having a blepharoplasty procedure in Newcastle, or if you would like to book a consultation, contact the team at Dr Mistry’s today or call 02 4002 4198.