Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Risks And Safety

A blepharoplasty is a relatively simple surgical procedure when undertaken by an experienced eye surgeon. It is typically undertaken as an outpatient procedure. 

The patient, on the other hand, should follow the guidelines given by the surgeon for the preparatory and recovery phases in a dedicated manner for safe and successful results. 

The eyes are a delicate area of the body, and undergoing any surgical procedure in this area should be a well-considered decision. The surgeon should explain the potential risks and complications associated with blepharoplasty to the patient at the time of the pre-op consultation.

Oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Tanya Khan provides advanced eye care to patients in Plano, Dallas, Texas, and surrounding communities. 

Potential Complications 

Certain patient may potentially experience a complication during or after blepharoplasty. These complications may include ectropion, retinal detachment, or hematoma. However, these complications develop only in exceptional cases. 

Nevertheless, the patient should be clear on the potential risks. Ectropion is the drooping effect that leads to inversion in the lower eyelids. This condition will necessitate revision surgery.  

A hematoma refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the incision areas underneath the skin. In case blepharoplasty is performed with another procedure, such as a facelift or brow lift, the possibility of hematoma development may be higher. 

The surgeon may place narrow drain tubes underneath the skin in the incision sites to remove excess fluid and reduce the risk of hematoma development. In exceptional cases, the patient may experience retinal detachment. This condition involves the detachment of the retina from the outer eye layers.

Retinal tears or holes can cause this condition, and the patient will require surgery to address this condition. 

Minor Complications

Certain patients may experience one or more of the following complications after their blepharoplasty procedure:

• Poor reaction to anesthesia 
• Infection 
• Blurred or double vision 
• Undesirable scarring 
• Burning sensation in the eyes 
• Appearance of whiteheads following the removal of sutures 
• Excessive tearing
• Problems in closing the eyes when sleeping 
• Dry eyes 

In most patients, these complications resolve by themselves. But patients may need treatment if the problem persists or causes discomfort. 

Common Side Effects

Pain, Discomfort, and Irritation 

The patient may experience slight irritation or soreness in the incision sites during the early post-op period. They may feel tightness or pain in the eyelids as the effects of the anesthesia subside. The surgeon may prescribe pain drugs for the initial week after eyelid lift surgery. 

Inflammation

In the week after their blepharoplasty procedure, the patient can expect some degree of inflammation. They can use cold compresses or ice therapy in the initial two to three days to address the swelling. On top of this, the patient should keep their head in a raised position for the initial few days after the procedure. 

Scarring

In most cases of eyelid lift surgery, the patient will experience minimal scarring. The scars will not be noticeable from the outside if the surgeon makes the incisions within the lower eyelid. Board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Tanya Khan receives patients from Plano, Dallas, Texas, and nearby areas for safe and proven eye care procedures.

Contact Khan Eyelid and Facial Aesthetics and Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Tanya Khan Today to Schedule an Appointment

For more information about procedures and treatments at Khan Eyelid and Facial Aesthetics by Ophthalmic surgeon Dr. Tanya Khan. Click here to contact us.

Taking patients from in and around Dallas, Plano, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Carrollton, Irving, Frisco, Texas and more.