EYELID SURGERY

As we age, excess skin forms around the eye area and the skin loses elasticity. Fatty tissue can also accumulate under the skin. These ageing processes combine to produce an appearance of tired, wrinkled and / or puffy eyes.  Wrinkles, puffiness and drooping eyelids will eventually become features of even those who follow thorough skin care regimes. Also, genetic factors and body chemistry can cause these ageing effects in younger people.

Cosmetic surgery can restore a youthful and refreshed appearance to your eyes. Blepharoplasty is a treatment for baggy skin under the eyes, sinking upper eyelids or drooping eyelashes that impair vision. This is often combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures such as a brow lift or facelift to improve droopy eyebrows, crow’s feet and facial sagging.

Caucasian and Asian eyelids are anatomically different and must be dealt with care and understanding of the differences. Eyelid surgery is an exceptionally complex area of surgery which involves the interplay of many factors and,  contrary to what we are encouraged to believe, is not simply removal of excess skin.

How is it done?

Blepharoplasty is best performed under local anaesthesia with IV sedation. It is possible but rare for general anesthesia to be used. A discussion with Dr Tiong is necessary to establish the most appropriate form of sedation.

Briefly, surgical incisions are made along the line creases of the upper eyelid and possibly along the outer lower rim of the skin of the eye. When removing fatty tissue, but not skin, an incision inside the lower rim of the skin of the eye is made. These incisions often reach the outer corners of the eyes so that excess skin, fat or muscle can be removed.

How long does the surgery take?

Depending on the extent of the procedure, time in surgery may take between 1-3 hours. You may have only one pair of eyelids operated upon, or both the upper and the lower lids. Patients typically return home within a few hours of the surgery. You must be taken home by a carer and cannot drive home yourself.

What should I expect in recovery?

1. Following surgery an ointment is applied to lubricate your eyes and protect them from infection. Bandages may be applied to cover the eyes. You may experience tearing, itchy, burning eyes, dry eyes, light sensitivity and blurred or double vision which can persist for several days. There will also be some swelling around the eyes.
2. Oral medications will help to minimize any pain or discomfort.
3. You will not be able to wear makeup, drink alcohol, watch television or wear contact lenses for several days following the procedure.
4. Bruising and swelling will continue to decrease after the stitches are removed. Sunglasses and protective sun block are required for several weeks following the procedure.
5. We recommend that you relax and recuperate for 3-5 days following the procedure. Any strenuous activities in the first 24 hours or even first few days can lead to bleeding and may potentially cause blindness. It is absolutely critical for you to follow the doctor’s instructions.
6. After about 10 days, you may resume normal activities and return to work. It is still recommended that strenuous activities such as lifting, bending and intensive exercise are avoided until after three weeks after the surgery.

What costs are involved?

Surgeon fees start from $1,650* per eye including GST. Anaesthetic fee and hospital fees are extra should you wish it done in the hospital.

*The cost of cosmetic surgery can vary (higher or lower), depending on the complexity of the procedure, the required results, cost of implants, aftercare treatment and the area of the body where the surgery is being performed. Further costs may be incurred for anaesthetist and hospital fees if applicable. For specific pricing information, please arrange a consultation with Dr. Tiong.