BLEFAROPLASTY stands for eyelid correction.
We talk about lower and upper blepharoplasty. The anatomy is similar as well as the pathology and mechanisms behind the formation. In both cases there is excess or drooping skin, muscle and fat pads inside. There is a debate going on among the surgeons, what part and how much of the tissue to cut. Today, as we understand a lot about aging mechanisms, most of the surgeons agree that maximum tissue preservation and, after the correction of the formation mechanisms (tissue lift and/or reposition of the fat pads inside) cutting of the obvious excess only and no more, is the proper way.
UPPER BLEPHAROPLASTY – when we are contemplating this procedure, we need to take into account the forehead as well! How much lowering of the forehead contributes to the excess tissue of the upper lid, and if the answer is affirmative, we need to correct both structures, i.e. forehead and upper eyelid. If we do just the eyelid correction, only prominent tissue excess is removed.Here, It is important to point out that most of the surgeons are not aware of the importance of temporal lift for the full, rejuvenated face look.
LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY – when correcting lower eyelid we need to take into account sagging of the cheeks and face as the whole and correct that first! Only then we can have the real picture of what and how much of the lower eyelid tissue should be removed. This was the case in the past which led to some serious complications. Definitely we should proceed with great caution and moderation.
POST-TREATMENT
If all the above was taken seriously then the post-treatment should go smoothly and fast. Lesser bruising and some pain are the reality by they disappear in a couple of days. There is no need for hospitalization or work absence.
If the above warnings are not taken seriously, different complications can appear.
It is the surgeon’s duty and obligation to correctly warn the patient about the possible and probable problems. That is the only way to go.