Blepharoplasty is a type of surgery done to repair drooping or sagging eyelids. It may be more commonly known as an "eyelid lift." The surgery involves removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from around the eyelids. People usually have it as a cosmetic procedure to look younger. It may also be done if a person has eyelid drooping that affects their vision.

The procedure. Blepharoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure by a plastic surgeon. The procedure usually takes less than two hours. Your surgeon will give you medication to help you relax and will inject a numbing agent around your eyes. Small incisions will be made into the creases or folds of the eyelids and then the loose skin and extra fat will be removed. The eyelid muscles will be tightened as well.

Before the procedure. Before the procedure, you may have to have a physical and vision exam. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you may have such as glaucoma, dry eyes, allergies, diabetes, circulation problems, thyroid issues, or any previous surgeries.

After the procedure. You can usually go home the same day as your surgery. Be sure to have someone else drive you. You may experience some side effects after surgery which are usually short-lived such as:

·       Watery eyes

·       Sensitivity to light

·       Blurred or double vision

·       Puffy, numb eyelids

·       Pain

·       Swelling and bruising

Potential risks of blepharoplasty include:

·       Damage to the eyes

·       Vision loss

·       Difficulty closing your eyes while sleeping

·       Double or blurred vision

·       Slow healing

·       Uneven healing or scarring

·       Bleeding

·       Infection