Mémento :
Blepharoplasty or eyelid lift, complete overview
Blepharoplasty : understanding this cosmetic surgery procedure
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to correct drooping eyelids and eliminate bags under the eyes. This type of surgery can considerably improve the appearance of the face, providing a genuine rejuvenation and radiance to the eyes.
But what are the ins and outs of this procedure? I suggest exploring blepharoplasty in detail to provide a complete overview.
What is blepharoplasty ?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove or reposition excess skin, tighten the muscle and sometimes the fat of the lower and upper eyelids. It is often performed for aesthetic reasons, but may also be necessary to improve vision when excess skin impairs vision.
Upper eyelids vs. lower eyelids
There are two main types of blepharoplasty :
- Upper eyelids : This procedure involves removing excess skin and sometimes fat from above the eyes. Drooping eyelids can give a tired, aged appearance, affecting both appearance and visual function. On the other hand, I recommend maintaining the fat capital of the upper eyelid as much as possible.
- Lower eyelids : Lower blepharoplasty eliminates bags under the eyes by removing or redistributing fat, sometimes without a scar, via the conjunctiva.
Blepharoplasty : understand this cosmetic surgery procedure in 3D animation, the ins and outs of this procedure
Progress in blepharoplasty : 3D animation and narration for information purposes
Video credit : 
Who can benefit from blepharoplasty ?
- The procedure is particularly suitable for people whose eyelids droop or who have bags under the eyes; sometimes older people experience visual discomfort.
- In some cases, women find it difficult to apply make-up.
Whether it’s a lower eyelid blepharoplasty or an upper eyelid blepharoplasty.
Age group : Blepharoplasty is a type of eyelid rejuvenation surgery involving men and women aged 35/40. It removes bags under the eyes and excess skin that forms a cap on the upper eyelid.
Why have an eyelid lift ?
Benefits : This aesthetic eyelid surgery (cosmetic eye surgery) aims to eliminate the drooping of the eyelid (ptosis) that partially or completely covers the eyes, whether due to genetics or ageing. It can affect the upper eyelid, the lower eyelid or both.
Blepharoplasty can be combined with other procedures, such as a mini-facelift of the forehead, temples or neck, and even with medical and surgical treatments, such as a skin peel.
Preparing for the operation
Before the operation, a consultation appointment with photographs is held to discuss expectations, medical history and any medication you are taking. Pre-operative tests may be required to ensure that the patient is fit for cosmetic surgery.
What type of anaesthetic and what are the instructions before eyelid surgery ?
Blepharoplasty is often performed under local anaesthetic combined with sedation, although a general anaesthetic may be considered in certain cases.
Depending on the type of anaesthetic chosen, the operation may be performed as an outpatient procedure, with local anaesthetic or intensive anaesthetic.
Patients may be asked to fast for 6 hours before the operation.
How is blepharoplasty carried out ?
The intervention process : stages of the intervention
Blepharoplasty involves several key stages
- Incisions : I make incisions along the natural lines of the eyelids to minimise visible scarring.
- Tissue removal/adjustment : I readjust the skin and tissues using a sterile compass. Depending on the patient’s needs, excess skin, muscle or fat is removed or repositioned.
- Sutures : The incisions are then closed with fine sutures. The stitches are removed a few days after the operation. I remove the stitches after 8 days and it is painless.
The effects of blepharoplasty are fully appreciated a few months after the operation, as healing takes time. Most patients report a natural and lasting result. A single blepharoplasty is generally sufficient in a lifetime.
Recovery time
It depends on the patient, but most patients experience temporary bruising and swelling, which generally diminishes within two weeks. Appropriate post-operative care, including the regular application of cold compresses and the use of prescribed medication, enables faster healing.
3D simulation before and after your possible blepharoplasty after simple and secure registration, from the comfort of your own home.
What effect does double eyelid surgery have on the eyes ?
Aesthetic advantages
Blepharoplasty offers a number of aesthetic advantages :
- A more youthful, rested look.
- Significant reduction in drooping eyelids and bags under the eyes.
- Overall improvement in facial appearance.
- The appearance is immediately rejuvenated: the effect is spectacular.
Functional improvements
As well as looking good, eyelid surgery can improve vision.
Will the incision leave a scar ?
The surgeon makes a small, relatively invisible incision in the crease of the eye. Since then, the unsightly fat hernia has been removed, and the excess sagging muscles and skin have also been removed. The surgeon takes care not to remove too much skin. Future scars will be hidden in the natural folds. However, for the lower eyelid, if there is no skin to remove, the incision made in the eyelid will leave no visible scar.
Prices and reimbursement for blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty prices vary according to various factors, such as the complexity of the operation and the surgeon’s experience. In general, blepharoplasty is a cosmetic operation, and no reimbursement is provided. In some cases, partial coverage is possible. (Ptosis; Facial paralysis). In this case, blepharoplasty has a restorative function.
SOURCE « Regard et Paupières »
« Regard et Paupières » The Contribution of Aesthetic Surgery by Édouard MAHÉ & Sylvie POIGNONEC © CCA Wagram monographs
What are the specific instructions after eyelid surgery ?
Do not take any medicines containing aspirin for 10 days after surgery.
If the blepharoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, you will be discharged the same day after a few hours’ observation. However, a short stay in hospital may be necessary.
- Patients may experience slight discomfort, such as tight eyelids, visual disturbances and even mild eye irritation.
- For the first few days, you may not be able to close your eyelids completely.
- The sutures are generally not absorbable and must be removed over the next few days. The post-operative consequences, in particular bruising and swelling, will remain visible for approximately 8 to 10 days.
- The scar for the first month will remain slightly pink, but from the 7th day, make-up is permitted.
- It is possible to resume social and professional life after a week’s rest, during which any violent behaviour should be avoided.
- It is advisable to wear sunglasses.
- Results can be seen immediately after the operation.
- However, few people have been considering repeat operations for more than a decade.
- The elimination of bags under the eyes is virtually permanent.
Are there any risks associated with cosmetic eyelid surgery ?
Post-operative care
In general, bruising and swelling may last for 1 to 2 weeks.
However, even if they are rare, you should always be aware of possible complications :
All surgery carries risks, and blepharoplasty is no exception. Although rare, certain complications can occur.
