Blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid surgery, can provide many benefits, including vision improvement, eyes that look younger and more alert, and an aesthetic, symmetrical facial profile.
However, as with any surgery, there is the possibility that blepharoplasty can cause some long-term side effects and complications. Fortunately, knowing how to recognize these issues can go a long way toward helping prevent a serious or unpleasant complication after your surgery.
So, what are the complications, and what should you watch for post-blepharoplasty?
Potential Blepharoplasty Long-Term Side Effects
1. Scarring
While this is possible with any surgery, scarring is more of a concern with facial surgeries. Finding ways to conceal a prominent scar on your face can be more difficult. Choosing a qualified oculoplastic surgeon is the best way to avoid noticeable scarring after blepharoplasty. These surgeons know how to place incisions in the eyelids’ natural creases to help them blend in as much as possible.
Though most eyelid surgery scars will fade with time, some people are more prone to developing thick, red scar tissue. In these cases, using a scar cream or a treatment recommended by your surgeon may help limit scar tissue development, leading to an even skin tone and smooth textured skin after blepharoplasty.
2. Dry Eyes
A more common side effect of blepharoplasty is developing dry eyes. During surgery, the tear ducts may be affected, leading to a change in tear production. This typically resolves after a short time; however, it’s possible to experience these effects in the long term.
While some patients can manage their cases of post-surgery dry eye with over-the-counter drops, others may need to seek advice from an eye doctor if the problem is persistent and doesn’t resolve or improve on its own. Selecting an oculoplastic surgeon to perform your blepharoplasty can help lower the risk of dry eyes and other complications.
3. Altered Eye Shape
Tightening the eyelid skin during blepharoplasty can sometimes lead to a slightly different eye shape. This can be a welcome change for some people who are looking for a more aesthetic appearance. For others, however, the change may be unwanted and unexpected.
During your consultation, ask your surgeon about the potential of your eyes changing shape after surgery. Make sure you and your surgeon are on the same page and know what your aesthetic goals are.
4. Lagophthalmos (Difficulty Closing The Eye)
A slightly more serious problem after blepharoplasty is lagophthalmos. This condition occurs when the eyelid muscles become tense after surgery and prevent the lid from fully closing. Lagophthalmos is most common with upper eyelid surgery.
Lagophthalmos is also possible if the surgeon removes too much skin and muscle during surgery, causing the eye to remain partially open at all times. However, this complication is less likely with a skilled surgeon.
5. Changes In Vision
Though this is a rare side effect of blepharoplasty, some patients may experience changes to their vision post-operation. Sometimes, this is due to nerve damage that will likely heal after a few weeks.
If you have any changes in your vision, it’s a good idea to talk to your surgeon so they can determine if it’s a temporary issue or if you may need to take additional steps to resolve the problem.
How To Deal With The Potential Long-Term Side Effects Of Blepharoplasty
The best way to handle the possible side effects of blepharoplasty is to be aware of these conditions. If you notice excessive dry eyes, developing scar tissue, changes in vision, altered eye shape, or eyelids that won’t fully close, you should talk to your surgeon.
At the Jindal Institute for Youthful Aging, our oculoplastic surgeon has many years of experience performing successful blepharoplasty procedures. Dr. Jindal’s skill and expertise can help you avoid long-term side effects so you can get satisfying results from your procedure.
Call JIYA today at (919) 929-6006 to learn more about our services.
