A Checklist To Help You Consider The Risks Of Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Copyright (c) 2010 Julie Glynn

Eyelid surgery, known medically as blepharoplasty, is one of the most popular aesthetic plastic surgery procedures in the UK. Whether to boost confidence or self esteem, opting to undergo elective eyelid surgery is a big decision, which usually carries significant emotional, physical, and financial concerns. That is why is if something goes wrong, it can be not only very painful, but extremely upsetting. If this has happened to you, you need professional legal and medical advice so that you can decide what action, if any, you can take.

What Is A Blepharoplasty?

With 4827 blepharoplasty procedures being performed in the UK in 2009, it is the second most popular cosmetic surgery procedure after breast augmentation. That is because as we age, our skin loses elasticity and our muscles slacken. For our eyes, this leads to an accumulation of loose skin around the eyelids, creating folds in the upper lids and creases in the lower lids. Meanwhile, the slackening of muscle beneath the skin allows the fat to protrude, which makes bags appear under the eyes. While this is a natural part of the ageing process, hereditary factors also play an important role, as some families do have an inherited tendency for premature ageing of the eyes.

A blepharoplasty aims to correct the premature ageing of the eyelids. Carried out either under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic with sedation, a blepharoplasty removes the surplus skin and protruding fat, and can be performed on either the upper eye, lower eye, or both. The wound will then be sutured, which will be removed at the surgeon's discretion.

After the procedure, you should be carefully observed for three to four hours to ensure bleeding does not occur. You can also expect the application of an antiseptic eye ointment and considerable bruising and swelling.

Preventing Complications.
As with any surgery, blepharoplasty comes with a number of risks and potential complications. All these should be fully explained to you by your surgeon in a consultation, which will allow you to make an informed decision as to whether eye surgery is the right option for you. However, there are measures which can be taken before the surgery takes place that will decrease the chance of complications arising:

1. Be sure of your motivation.
It is important to examine the reasons for opting to undergo plastic surgery. A blepharoplasty may boost confidence and self esteem, but it will not resolve any major life problems. Remain realistic about your expectations and be sure to consult with your surgeon as to what exactly you want to achieve.

2. Find the right surgeon.
Ensure the credentials of a surgeon by checking he/she has registered as a cosmetic surgery specialist with the General Medical Council (GMC) or with The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS).

3. Disclose all your medical history.
It is essential you disclose all of your medical history to the surgeon - such as thyroid disease, high blood pressure, allergies, medications, or eye disorders - so he/she can calculate and manage the risks posed to each patient.

4. Social habits.
Before surgery, rest for a day or two in advance. Additionally, try to quit or cut down on smoking, limit alcohol intake, do not perform vigorous exercise, and prevent taking aspirin for two weeks before the surgery.

There are also a few dos and don't you can follow after the procedure which will help the wound heal and reduce the possibility of any problems occurring:-
Reduce swelling by sitting upright, and avoid lying down;

* Do not strain or exercise for one week;
* Take Arnica tablets to aid the healing process;
* Keep the wound dry for 48 hours after the procedure;
* Do not use make-up for at least one week after the procedure;
* Do not start local massage until instructed to do so by the surgeon;
* Do not take aspirin or products containing aspirin as these will prolong or re-commence bleeding.

Risks Involved.
Even if you follow all these preventative measures, it is possible complications as a result of a blepharoplasty arise. These can include:-

* Excessive tears;
* Bleeding (haematoma);
* Infection;
* Growth of a transparent sack of fluid which covers part of the eye;
* Scratch to the cornea;
* Damage to the nerves of the eyelid or eye;
* Secondary tightening of the eyelid skin.

Summary.
Running through these items will ensure that you are as prepared as possible for cosmetic eyelid surgery.


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