Definition: Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure in plastic and cosmetic surgery designed to tighten and correct the upper and/or lower eyelids. During the procedure, excess skin, fatty tissue and, where necessary, part of the slackened orbicularis oculi muscle are removed or repositioned.

The main aims of blepharoplasty are:

• Aesthetic rejuvenation: A more open, alert and youthful outlook.
• Functional improvement: In cases of severely drooping eyelids, blepharoplasty can also correct a restricted field of vision.
• Alleviation of symptoms: Sometimes, drooping eyelids can cause a feeling of pressure or headaches.

Indications: When is blepharoplasty recommended?

Blepharoplasty may be considered for a range of aesthetic and functional problems affecting the eyelids:

• Upper eyelid lift (correction of drooping eyelids): Significant excess skin on the upper eyelid, which makes the eyelid appear heavy or even rests on the eyelashes. Protrusion of fatty tissue on the upper eyelid. Restriction of the upper field of vision due to severely drooping eyelid skin. A tired, sad or strained facial expression.
• Lower eyelid lift (correction of bags under the eyes and wrinkles): Pronounced swelling under the eyes (eye bags), caused by protruding fatty tissue. Excess, wrinkled skin on the lower eyelid. Dark circles under the eyes, which are accentuated by the shadows cast by the eye bags. Sagging of the lower eyelid margin.

A detailed consultation with an experienced specialist is crucial in order to determine whether blepharoplasty is the appropriate procedure and which technique will yield the best results in each individual case.

Consultation, surgery and results of blepharoplasty

(a) Consultancy and planning:
The process begins with a detailed consultation with a qualified specialist. During this consultation, your wishes will be discussed, the area around your eyes will be examined, and the most suitable surgical technique will be determined. You will receive comprehensive information about the procedure, the anaesthesia, the risks and the recovery process. A personalised treatment plan will be drawn up together with you.

b) The operation (blepharoplasty):
The procedure itself is usually carried out on an outpatient basis and takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on its scope.

• Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia (often used for upper eyelid lifts), twilight sleep or a brief period of general anaesthesia are common.
• Editing and technique: In the Upper eyelid lift the incision is made in the eyelid crease to remove excess skin and, where necessary, excess fat. During the Lower eyelid lift The incision is made just below the lash line or on the inner side of the eyelid to reduce or redistribute fat deposits and remove excess skin.
• Wound closure: The incisions are closed using the finest sutures or a special tissue adhesive.

Results of blepharoplasty

The aim of blepharoplasty is to achieve a natural-looking rejuvenation of the eye area. Most patients report a more alert, fresher and more open look. In cases where drooping eyelids cause functional limitations, the field of vision can also be improved. The final result is usually visible after a few weeks to months, once all the swelling has completely subsided and the fine scars have healed well and faded. The results usually last for many years, although the skin’s natural ageing process continues.

Risks and potential complications of blepharoplasty

As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty also carries general and specific risks, which your doctor will explain to you in full:

• General surgical risks: Swelling, bruising (haematomas), impaired wound healing, infections, scarring.
• Specific risks associated with eyelid surgery: Temporary dryness of the eyes, a burning sensation or watery eyes. Slight asymmetry of the eyelids or scarring. Numbness around the eyelids or eyelashes (usually temporary). Malpositions of the eyelid margins (e.g. a slightly protruding lower eyelid/ectropion), which may require further correction. Very rare: impaired ability to close the eyelids, double vision, injury to the eye.

Insurance cover and aftercare

By choosing a qualified and experienced specialist and carefully following the aftercare instructions, many risks can be minimised. You should also consider taking out insurance to cover follow-up costs, which can provide financial protection for medically necessary follow-up treatment in the event of unexpected complications.

The healing process and important aftercare measures following blepharoplasty

The right one Aftercare is crucial for the best possible result and a speedy recovery:

1. Immediately after the operation Apply a cold compress to the area around the eyes to reduce swelling and bruising. Keep the upper body elevated.
2. The first few days Mild swelling and bruising are normal and usually subside within 1–2 weeks. Avoid physical exertion.
3. Thread pull The stitches are usually removed after 5–7 days.
4. Social skills Most patients are able to resume their normal social activities after about 1–2 weeks; any slight residual swelling or bruising can be concealed with make-up.
5. Sport and physical exertion You should avoid sport and heavy physical work for about 2–4 weeks.
6. Sun protection Make sure you protect the scars from direct sunlight for several months (wear sunglasses and use sun cream with a high SPF).
7. Scar care Once the wound has fully healed, specialised scar care may be advisable.

Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on aftercare.