Possible Problems Arising due to Eyelid Surgery

After eyelid surgery, it is common for people to have the usual problems

• There will be swelling and bruising following the surgery, which may last up to a month.
• Eyes will be gummy for around a week.
• There may be excessive light sensitivity and changes to eyesight, like blurring or double vision.
• The eyelids may feel dry.
• Eyes may burn or itch.
• The scars from the surgery may remain pink for six months after the surgery.

It will take some time before you can resume your normal activities.

• You will not be able to watch television for two to three days, or wear contact lenses for two weeks.
• It will take a week to ten days before you can go back to work.
• You will need to rest for three to five days, and avoid strenuous activities for three weeks.
• You may need to avoid alcohol.

Other risks and complications include

• Infections.
• Continued bleeding.
• Wound separation.
• Suture cysts.
• Insufficient skin removal, requiring a second operation.
• Excessive skin removal, making it difficult for the patient to close their eyes while blinking and sleeping.
• Insufficient fat removal.
• Excessive fat removal, creating a high, deep crease.
• Excessive muscle removal, leading to weakened eyelid support.
• Internal scarring.
• External scarring.
• Swelling of the eyeball surface.
• Injury to the tear-producing gland.
• Double vision.
• Loss of vision.
• An allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

Is it Worth It?

The average eyelid surgery cost is around $2,500 for the plastic surgeon’s fee, plus additional costs for anesthesia, outpatient surgery facility and medications. This is for a surgery that treats only the eyelids. Eyebrow furrows, wrinkles and sagging cheeks will not be improved by an eyelid lift.

Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide whether the cost of eyelid plastic surgery is worth the resulting improvement to their face. Before undergoing an eyelid lift, it is wise to research the procedure and your plastic surgeon, evaluate your own expectations and discuss the treatment thoroughly (discussing the risks, the steps taken and your expectations) with your plastic surgeon. It is wise to wait until you are sure you want eyelid surgery and you have realistic expectations.