Three Things You Need to Know Before Eyelid Surgery In Toronto, canada

Posted on January 20, 2022 in Cosmetic Surgery

The eye area is especially prone to signs of aging like wrinkles or sagging due to delicate, thin skin and frequent movement.  An eyelid lift, also known as blepharoplasty, can greatly improve these signs of aging for a refreshed and youthful look.  Before you schedule your consultation with Dr. Stephanie Power, here are three things to know about the surgery.

Eyelid Surgery is Increasingly Popular

Blepharoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries worldwide, consistently ranking among the top five most requested plastic surgery procedures. This is in part thanks to the growing popularity in East Asia, and especially in South Korea, where many patients choose the procedure to achieve a double eyelid look. In other parts of the world, including Canada, the procedure is more popular among mature patients who wish to address loose skin of the eyelids, wrinkles and fine lines, and puffiness or bags in the under-eye area. This may allow patients to achieve a more well-rested and youthful appearance.

How Eyelid Surgery is Performed

The steps required to complete an eyelid surgery will vary depending on each patient’s concerns and needs.  Dr. Power will carefully evaluate your aesthetic concerns and recommend whether an upper eyelid lift, lower eyelid lift, or combination is best for you.  Upper eyelid lifts can usually be performed under local anesthesia alone, while lower eyelid lifts usually require general anesthesia.

In an upper eyelid lift, a small incision is made within the crease of the upper lid.  Through this incision, Dr. Power will remove excess skin and prominent fatty tissue, particularly at the inner eyelid region, to improve contour.  Once these steps are complete, sutures are placed to close the incisions.

A lower eyelid lift is typically a more complex surgery.  To complete this procedure for patients who have under eye puffiness alone, an incision can be made on the inner lower eyelid, through which fat in the area can be removed or repositioned.  This is referred to as a transconjunctival (TCJ) lower blepharoplasty.  If excess skin is also present, Dr. Power will make an incision just below the lash line to remove this excess skin.  Incisions are made carefully so that any subsequent scars fade as the incision heals and are well-concealed in the natural contours of the eye area.  As needed, the outer corner of the eye may be lifted and repositioned through a technique known as lateral canthoplasty; this may soften signs of aging and support the lower lid during healing to lower risk of drooping.  A lateral canthopexy may also create a more upturned shape in the outer portion of the eye.

Side Effects and Recovery After Eyelid Surgery

After your eyelid lift surgery, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising.  Dr. Power will provide a prescription for pain medication and Tobradex, an ointment which promotes healing and provides a topical antibiotic to lower risk of infection.  Some patients find that their discomfort is mild, in which case Tylenol may be sufficient through the recovery period.

Dr. Power will give you specific instructions for your recovery period and aftercare.  You can gently wash incisions with soap and water beginning the day after your surgery, followed by patting the areas dry and lightly applying Tobradex as directed.  Cold compresses are beneficial, especially over the first 48 hours after your eyelid lift.  Avoid rubbing your eyes and rest with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows over the first month.  Stitches will be removed one week after your surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about your eyelid lift options in Toronto, ON, schedule a consultation with Stephanie Power, MD.  Call Power Plastic Surgery at (416) 962-1010 or contact us online.