Eyelid Surgery Side Effects You Need to Know

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure. It can reduce wrinkles, enhance the appearance of the eyes, and remove excess skin or fat that may cause the eyes to appear droopy or tired. While blepharoplasty can produce excellent results, it is crucial to understand that it carries certain risks and side effects. In this article, we will discuss five common side effects of eyelid surgery that you should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.

1) Bruising and Swelling

It is common for eyelid surgery to cause swelling and bruising. Immediately following your procedure, you will experience bruising and swelling that can last anywhere from one week to several months. The severity of these side effects will vary based on the amount of work done during the procedure. Swelling usually peaks after 48 hours and may affect both eyes, though the amount of swelling on each side may differ.

It typically lasts two weeks and appears as black-and-blue marks under the eyes or on the eyelids. If you experience significant pain or increased swelling after a few days, contact your doctor as it may indicate an infection. Avoid strenuous activities and use cold compresses to reduce inflammation after surgery to reduce the risk of bruising and swelling.

2) Dry Eyes

One of the most common side effects of eyelid surgery is dry eyes. This can occur because the procedure may disrupt the production of tears or damage the glands responsible for producing them. The eye can feel gritty, irritated, burn, and itch from this sensation. The dryness can last from a few days to several weeks.

Fortunately, this side effect is typically treatable with over-the-counter eye drops or more effective medications prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms are severe and not responding to traditional treatments, your doctor may suggest treatments such as punctual plugs or intense pulsed light therapy.

3) Difficulty Closing Your Eyes

One of the potential side effects of eyelid surgery is difficulty closing your eyes. This can range from a minor irritation to a more serious problem. Depending on the severity, this may even require a second procedure to correct. If you experience any difficulty in closing your eyes following surgery, you should consult with your doctor as soon as possible.

Some of the causes for difficulty closing your eyes could be related to how much tissue was removed during the procedure. If too much tissue was taken away, it can leave your eyelids feeling heavy and unable to close. In some cases, an additional procedure may be necessary to help reposition the remaining eyelid tissue and reduce the strain on the eyelids.

Other potential causes of difficulty closing your eyes can include swelling or inflammation of the eyelids or an infection. In either case, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure that you do not suffer any further complications. With prompt treatment, the problem should resolve itself within a few weeks.

4) Infection

Infection is a possible side effect of eyelid surgery, and it’s important to take proper precautions before and after your procedure to help minimize the chances of an infection. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding any medications, activities, or ointments that will help reduce your risk of infection. If you develop an infection, it can cause redness and swelling, as well as itching and pain. In severe cases, an infection can result in scarring, decreased vision, and even the loss of your eye. Immediately contact your doctor if you experience any signs of infection, such as a fever, chills, redness, or pus.

5) Scarring

Scarring is a potential side effect of eyelid surgery that should be considered before undergoing the procedure. Although every effort is made to minimize scarring, there is still a risk. The amount and type of scarring will depend on the individual’s healing process and skin type.

The incision for eyelid surgery is usually made in the natural crease of the eyelid, so the scar will be hidden. However, it can take up to a year for the scars to fully fade and there may be some discoloration or puckering. In some cases, a second revision surgery may be necessary to improve the scarring.

It’s important to speak with your doctor about scarring before you have eyelid surgery. He or she can tell you more about what to expect and provide you with tips on how to reduce any scarring after your surgery. They may also recommend ways to speed up the healing process and help the scars fade faster.