Eyelid Surgery Risks

In most instances, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a minimally invasive procedure performed to correct certain aesthetic or functional abnormalities of the eyelids. The benefits of this type of procedure are great. However, with eyelid surgery, as with all surgeries, the inherent risks must be weighed while considering if the procedure is right for you. Most complications of eyelid surgery are temporary, but permanent impairment must always be a realistic concern.

Potential Complications of Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

As with all surgeries, eyelid surgery comes with risks and potential complications that vary in severity. The most severe of these complications include ectropian, hematoma, and retinal detachment. Ectropian is a drooping effect that causes the lower lid to invert, requiring additional surgery to correct. Hematoma is an even more serious complication involving blood accumulation beneath the skin. Hematoma is more likely to occur when eyelid surgery is performed in conjunction with another facial cosmetic procedure such as a facelift or brow lift. Finally, retinal detachment, which can be caused by holes or tears in the retina, occurs when the retina is separated from the outer layers of the eye. Retinal detachment also requires additional surgery to correct.

Additional, less serious complications can also result from eyelid surgery. The formation of whiteheads, or milia, that appear after suture removal is one such risk. Typically, these can be treated by the surgeon post-operatively. Another potential result of surgery is swelling that occurs at the corners of the eyelids but is treatable with gentle cold compresses. Some patients have difficulty keeping their eyes closed while sleeping; though temporary for most individuals, this particular complication has become permanent in others. On occasion, individuals have also reported experiencing blurred or double vision, but in most cases, these complications subside in a few days. Finally, in any surgery that requires a patient to be totally or partially sedated, an adverse reaction to anesthesia can occur.

Other minor complications that may occur from eyelid surgery include:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Dryness, burning of the eyes, both of which can usually be treated with artificial tear drops
• Excessive tearing

The likelihood of serious complications arising from the procedure is typically influenced by both the surgeon's skill as well as the patient's individual response to the eyelid surgery. Certain severe risks or complications can be avoided by cooperating fully and completely following your surgeon's instructions. With patience, a willingness to cooperate, and a qualified surgeon, the complications of eyelid surgery and any associated risks can be dramatically reduced.

Consult a Facial Plastic Surgeon in Your Area

You can learn more about the complications of eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) by speaking with a qualified surgeon. The DocShop directory of physicians can assist you in locating a professional near you who will be able to answer your questions concerning eyelid surgery risks. The most comprehensive information regarding the risks involved with any surgery will come from a trained and knowledgeable practitioner. Contact a facial plastic surgeon in your area to find out more about eyelid surgery and its risks.