You may have a drooping eyelid because the edge of the upper eyelid is lower than expected, or there is the presence of excess baggy skin in your upper eyelid. Excess skin on the upper or lower eyelid may cause the blocking of the pupil, resulting in vision problems. Excessive sagging of your eyelid may also cause tearing, inflammation, and a constant feeling of having something in your eye. Visiting a plastic and reconstructive surgeon Arlington may help you eliminate saggy eyelid problems and achieve youthful-looking eyes. Excessive skin in the lower and upper eyelids often affects people aged 50 and above.
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Preparation for eyelid surgery
During the first visit, the health specialist will review your health history, including surgeries you have had before and past and current health issues. Also, the surgeon may want to know the kind of medications or supplements you may be using.
You may not be the ideal candidate for a surgical procedure on the eyelid if you have certain health conditions, such as hypertension, long-lasting high blood glucose, and an underactive thyroid.
Also, your doctor may advise against eyelid surgery if you have Basedow’s disease, dry eyes, optic nerve damage, and retinal detachment. For instance, Basedow’s disease is an immune system disorder causing the overproduction of thyroid hormones. On the other hand, glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that cause damage to your optic nerves.
Your facial plastic surgeon will also need to evaluate the condition of the fat around the area of your eyelid, eyebrow position, and eyelid muscles.
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During eyelid surgery
An eyelid surgery often lasts a few hours. Before your surgeon starts a surgical procedure, you will benefit from an injection to numb the eyelid and the adjacent area to protect you from pain. During the surgery, you are not supposed to sleep.
Your plastic surgeon then makes tiny incisions on your eyelid or eyelids and removes unwanted fat, tissues, and skin.
After removing excess eyelid skin, your plastic surgeon will close the incisions using fine sutures. The stitches your surgeon uses are usually not visible to the naked eye, can self-dissolve, and leave no visible scars.
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Complications of eyelid surgery
It is usually rare for eyelid surgery to result in a complication. However, if there are complications, expect blood accumulation under the skin of the affected eyelid and inflammation.
Your eyelid surgery specialist will provide you with the correct information to ensure you minimize the risk and complications of eyelid surgery. For instance, before and after treatment, you may have to avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol.
You can take care of yourself after eyelid surgery by:
- Getting enough sleep and rest is essential for faster recovery
- Staying hydrated
- Limit your screen time. Avoid using the computer or watching TV for a few days after the surgery. The idea is to prevent your eyes from strain and exhaustion, which may cause complications.
- Avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eyes for a few weeks.
After several weeks, inflammation and vision problems will have significantly disappeared. As a result, you can resume your physically demanding activities, use makeup, and put on contact lenses.
Contact Advanced Plastic Surgery Center today to make an online appointment with an eyelid surgery specialist.
