How does eyelid surgery work?

This article has been reviewed and approved by Chief Medical and Aesthetic Surgeon Dr. Ali Bagher on March 25, 2024.

As we age naturally, the skin loses its elasticity, not only on the neck and hands, where it is often most visible, but also on the face - and specifically on the eyelids.

When we lose the elasticity of our skin, we may feel like we have excess skin on both the upper and lower eyelids. Many people feel that they look tired, that it is difficult to apply makeup, and some find that their field of vision is reduced when the heavy eyelids get in the way.

Eyelid surgery is a simple procedure that can solve the problem. Most commonly, the upper eyelids are affected, but the lower eyelids may also need correction to make you look and feel better. During the procedure, the surgeon simply cuts away the excess skin, giving you a more vibrant, tighter result with minimal scarring.

How eyelid surgery works

Eyelid surgery is designed to safely and effectively remove excess skin around your eyes. The surgery is usually done under local anesthesia, but if both the upper and lower eyelids are to be operated on at the same time, general anesthesia is included. The procedure is quick and usually does not take much more than half an hour to complete.

It is important that you are both healthy and rested before the operation and that you have followed the instructions given during your consultation.

During upper eyelid surgery, it is not uncommon to remove part of the eye muscle as well. It sounds scary, but it's not that bad. We do this to create a clear crease so that the result looks natural.

In lower eyelid surgery, the incision is usually made in the lash line, or on the inside of the eyelids. This way we can give you a nice result with very discreet scars.

Before your eyelid surgery

Before undergoing eyelid surgery, there are several important things to consider. First of all, it is important that you choose a surgeon who has experience with successful eyelid surgery. You should also gain as much knowledge on the subject as possible, for example by finding more information on eyelid surgery on our blog.

The first step is always to book a consultation with the clinic. You can do this directly online, or by contacting us by phone or email.

At the consultation, you will meet the surgeon who will perform the procedure and together you will discuss your requirements, goals and expectations. You will also receive information on what medication you may need to take before the day of the operation and how to prepare yourself. Apply for leave from work well in advance to ensure you get the recovery time you need. Sick leave for 10 days is included and you can get a medical certificate from us.

After your eyelid surgery

Even after your surgery, there are things you need to be aware of. For the best possible result, you must always follow the aftercare instructions and take the medication recommended by your surgeon.

You should also ensure that you sleep with your head elevated for the first few days and avoid bending forward. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to switch to glasses for the first 7-10 days after your surgery. Your surgeon will give you clear instructions on what to do.

Healing after eyelid surgery

As with any surgical procedure, it is important that you follow the aftercare instructions given to you by your clinic. Most of our patients remain in the clinic for only a few hours before being able to go home. As your eyelids can be very swollen and sore, it is important that you have someone to help you get home.

Your eyelids need time to heal. The length of the healing process varies from person to person. Most people experience swelling, bruising and soreness in the first few days and prefer to stay home and rest.

The symptoms are at their worst in the first 2-3 days, and they subside in the first few weeks. Using cooling glasses can reduce the risk of both bruising and swelling.

As the skin around the eyes is very thin and sensitive, you need to be prepared for swelling and bruising to be inevitable. Some people also experience difficulties in opening their eyes during the first few days. Although you may experience good results after a few weeks, the recovery time is 6 months.

Scars after eyelid surgery

Scars occur in some form after any type of surgery. In eyelid surgery, the surgeon is very careful and strategically places the incision as discreetly as possible to minimize the visibility of scars.

In upper eyelid surgery, the incision is usually placed in the eyelid crease or on the inside of the eyelids. In lower eyelid surgery, the lash line is a common location.

Your scars will be most visible in the first few weeks, but as they heal they will fade.

Summary

• Aging leads to reduced elasticity of the skin around the eyes, which can cause excess skin on both the upper and lower eyelids.
• Eyelid surgery is an effective procedure to correct heavy and droopy eyelids and restore a more vibrant appearance.
• The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes about half an hour.
• Before surgery, it is important to choose an experienced surgeon and read up on the procedure.
• After surgery, careful aftercare is required, such as keeping your head up and avoiding strenuous activities for some time.
• Recovery time varies from person to person, and common side effects during recovery include swelling and bruising.
• Scarring is inevitable but is minimized by careful placement of the incision.

Want to know more about eyelid surgery at Estetikcentrum? Contact us here or book a consultation with a surgeon to discuss your options. We are happy to answer your questions.