Definition and Purpose of Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure that improves the aesthetic appearance and increases the field of vision by correcting eyelid sagging that occurs with age. The eye area is one of the most prominent parts of our face and one of the first areas where signs of aging are seen. Over time, skin sagging may occur, especially in the upper eyelid, and bagging may occur in the lower eyelid.
This situation is not only an aesthetic problem; in some patients, it can turn into a functional issue by narrowing the field of vision. Blepharoplasty, as it is medically known, is performed both to provide a younger and more dynamic appearance and to increase the quality of life.
Why is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
Eyelid surgery is not performed solely for aesthetic concerns. In many patients, functional needs are at the forefront.
- Expanding the field of vision: Especially sagging in the upper eyelid can descend over the pupil over time, restricting vision.
- Reducing the tired expression: Under-eye bags and drooping lids can make a person look more tired and older than they actually are.
- Providing comfort: The constant need to lift the eyebrows can cause pain and wrinkles in the forehead area.
In some cases, the droopiness in the eyelid is not limited to the lid itself but may also be related to the eyebrow position. In such cases, evaluating it together with brow and forehead aesthetics can provide more balanced and natural results.
Who is Suitable for Eyelid Surgery?
Although it is generally preferred for individuals aged 35 and over, it can also be applied to young patients with structural eyelid drooping.
Eyelid tissue has a very thin and sensitive structure. For this reason, it should be known that in interventions performed at an early age, re-sagging may occur in later years along with the natural aging process.
Therefore, the timing of surgery must be carefully evaluated in suitable patients. The same approach is not applied to every patient; the decision must be made specifically for the individual.
How is Eyelid Surgery Performed?
Eyelid surgery is planned by taking the patient's general health status and medical history into consideration. In suitable patients, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia in clinical or operating room conditions.
During the surgery, excess skin and herniated fat tissue are carefully removed. Surgical planning is of great importance, especially in procedures performed on the upper eyelid.
One of the most important points in my clinical practice is not to remove more tissue than necessary. I always preserve enough tissue to help the eye close healthily at the end of the procedure.
Otherwise, the inability of the eye to close completely can lead to serious complications such as dry eye and keratitis.
How Many Hours Does Eyelid Surgery Take?
Eyelid surgery usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours. This duration may vary according to the scope of the procedure and the patient's needs.
What is the Post-Operative Process Like?
The process after eyelid surgery is generally comfortable, but the first week requires attention.
It is normal for the eye to be unable to close completely and remain open by 1–2 mm for about 1 week after the surgery. This situation is mostly temporary and improves within a week.
During this process, eye gel and eye drops are recommended to patients.
Why is the Timing of Surgery Important?
Eyelid skin is one of the tissues that loosens the fastest in the body. Therefore, in surgeries performed at a very early stage, sagging may be seen again in the following years.
For this reason, I prefer to postpone the surgery as much as possible in suitable patients. Because the possibility of re-sagging within 5–7 years must be taken into account.
In the older age group, eyelid surgery may often not be sufficient on its own. In such cases, planning together with facelift and rejuvenation procedures can provide more holistic results.
Combined Procedures with Eyelid Surgery
Eye area aesthetics is often not limited to a single procedure. To ensure balance in the upper part of the face, different procedures can be evaluated together.
Especially in cases where lifting the outer corner of the eye is targeted, a temporal lift (temple lift) procedure may be preferred.
In addition, combined planning with almond eye surgery can be done to give the eye shape a more slanted appearance.
In Which Situations Can Eyelid Surgery Be Risky?
In individuals with severe dry eye, the inability to close the eyelid completely in the post-operative period can increase this problem and lead to more serious eye problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Returning to daily life is usually possible within 7–10 days. Swelling and bruising are prominent in the first week, then decrease.
Will there be scars after the surgery?
Scars are usually hidden in the natural crease line of the eyelid and become indistinct over time.
Is the surgery permanent?
The results are long-lasting, but since the aging process continues, re-sagging may occur over the years.
Is it normal for the eyes not to close after surgery?
It is normal for the eyes to remain open by 1–2 mm in the first few days, and it usually improves in a short time.
An expert examination is required for a detailed evaluation of eyelid surgery. The most suitable treatment plan for you is determined after a personal examination.
