Have your friends and family started asking if you're having trouble sleeping? You look so tired ...
But, you don't feel tired and you are getting plenty of sleep.
A look in the mirror reveals the problem- puffy, saggy eyes.
Eyelid surgery can correct this.
After researching the procedure, you decide it is the way to go to rejuvenate your eyes and wake up your face.
This is generally a safe and common procedure, but as with any surgery, there are risks.
Some are fairly minor and temporary, but there are more serious risks that you should be aware of before going under the knife.
Minor/Temporary Risks: * Blurred vision- this can occur as a result of the normal swelling, but also if the muscles around the eye are traumatized.
If blurred vision occurs, it is usually temporary and corrects itself when the healing process is done.
Permanent blurred vision is rare.
* Corneal Scratches- the eye is a very sensitive and fragile organ and abrasions may occur.
While the surgeon and staff keep the area clean and free of debris during the procedure, even the tiniest of particles can cause a scratch.
Taping the eye closed for several days will give it a chance to heal itself.
* Scarring- if done correctly, the scars are hidden in the lash line and crease of the eye.
After a time they are nearly invisible.
But there is always a risk of complications while on the table or during the healing process that leaves behind visible scars.
* Dry Eyes- if this is an existing condition, visit an ophthalmologist for treatment first.
But, dry eyes can occur as a result of surgery as well.
To prevent this, the surgeon can place a suture to hold the lower lid up and in place during the healing process.
Major Risks: * Cannot close eyes- this occurs when too much skin is removed during the original procedure.
To correct this, grafting skin to the upper lid may be necessary, which means another surgery.
* Sunken Eyes- too much fat is removed from around the eye making the eyeball appear sunken in.
This is an aesthetic risk, but a pretty big one.
Relaying your goals clearly to your surgeon can prevent this.
* Corrective/Additional Surgery- if the original surgery does not accomplish all of your goals, additional surgery may be necessary such as a brow lift and skin treatments.
If it does not turn out like you wanted or mistakes are made, surgery to correct the problems may be necessary as well.
* Blindness- this is the ultimate risk of eyelid surgery.
Blindness is rare, but it is important to know it can happen.
It is caused by bleeding in the fat pockets around the eye.
If fat removal is not part of your procedure then this is even less of a risk.
Surgical Risks- no matter type of procedure, there is always a risk in surgery.
Reactions to anesthesia or pre-op drugs can be very dangerous.
Visit your regular physician to clear you for surgery and always relay to the surgeon current medications and health conditions.
The best way to minimize ant complications is to do your homework and to be a good patient: Learn about the procedure and know what to expect.
Research your plastic surgeon- make sure he is board certified, ask how many eyelid lifts he has performed and ask to see pictures.
Ask many questions- keep asking questions until you feel comfortable about the procedure and with the surgeon.
Having a great surgeon does not eliminate the risks, but it certainly minimizes the chance of anything serious occurring.