Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Risks and Complications
Eyelid surgery is a minimally invasive and generally very safe procedure, which provides very good long-term results, however although there are many benefits there are also a number of risks and potential complications associated with the procedure, which should be carefully considered before you make the decision whether or not to go ahead.
Most complications of eyelid surgery are temporary such as the formation of whiteheads, or milia, around the eye, difficulty keeping your eyes closed while sleeping, temporary blurred or double vision, dryness and burning of the eyes, which can usually be treated with artificial tear drops and temporary problems with excessive tear production.
Infection, scarring and bruising are common side effects of any surgery however more serious side effects of eyelid surgery can include ectropian, hematoma, and retinal detachment. The risks of these complications occurring can be minimised by carefully picking your surgeon, following the post surgery recovery instructions and the type of implant you choose.
Ectropian is a drooping effect that causes the lower lid to invert, requiring additional surgery to correct.
Hematoma is a serious complication involving blood accumulation beneath the skin. Hematoma is more likely to occur when eyelid surgery is performed in conjunction with another facial cosmetic procedure such as a face-lift or brow-lift.
Retinal detachment can be caused by holes or tears in the retina, occurs when the retina is separated from the outer layers of the eye. Retinal detachment also requires additional surgery to correct.
Infection can occur with any type of surgery. It usually happens within one to six weeks of surgery. In the majority of cases an infection can just be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of infection include fever as well as severe tenderness, redness, and swelling. To avoid getting an infection, make sure you keep the area around your eyes clean.
Swelling is very common following eyelid surgery. You are most likely to be swollen around the incision areas. Iced eye pads or cold compresses can be used to help reduce swelling. Any swelling that does occur may result in blurry vision for several days after the procedure. You can help reduce the swelling by keeping your head elevated as much as possible, avoid excessive blinking as well as strenuous activities that increase blood flow to the eyes.
Bruising is fairly common after any surgery although not everyone will experience it. The amount of bruising you get will depend on the skill of the surgeon and the individual patient. While bruising is usually very minimal, if you have any large, firm, painful areas of bruising, contact your surgeon immediately as there is the possibility of developing a hematoma, which is a more serious type of bruise that will need treatment. However normal bruising should subside in one to two weeks.
Scarring will occur with any kind of surgery. The locations of your scars will depend on the technique used by your surgeon. In most cases scars will fade over time and will not be noticeable as they are usually hidden in the natural crease of the eye. More skilled surgeons are able to keep scarring to a minimum, so its important you choose a surgeon that has proven experience in performing blepharoplasty.
If you have had your eyelid surgery under general anaesthetic, in combination with another procedure such as a face-lift or brow-lift then you also need to consider the risk associated with undergoing general anaesthetic. You can experience side effects from anaesthesia, such as a sore throat, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle pain but these are usually temporary. It is very important that you let your surgeon know if you have experienced any reactions to anaesthesia in the past.
The likelihood of serious complications arising from the procedure is typically influenced by the surgeon’s skill as well as the patient’s individual response to eyelid surgery. However these severe risks can be avoided by following your surgeon’s advice and instructions.
