The purpose of eyelid lift surgery is to treat sagging eyelids, which can lead to vision problems and affect the external appearance of the eyes. It is also used to remove excess, sagging skin surrounding the eyes, which tends to increase with age as the muscles that support the eyelids weaken over time.

Due to muscle weakness, fat is expected to accumulate above and below the eyelids, causing the obscuring of the eyebrows, sagging eyelids, and the formation of bags under the eyes. This surgery can significantly improve or completely eliminate vision problems caused by sagging eyelids.

Indications for the Surgery:

Eyelid lift surgery may be considered in cases where the patient experiences the following issues, focusing on what is emphasized at Clinic Arak, where the patient’s health takes precedence over the procedure:

Swelling of the upper eyelids or the formation of pouches.

Excess skin in the upper eyelids limits the field of vision.

Sagging lower eyelids, causing the exposure of the white part of the eye below the iris.

Bags under the eyes.

Complications of Eyelid Lift Surgery:

Eyelid repair is associated with several complications, including:

Infection.

Scarring at the surgical site.

Dry eye syndrome.

Formation of a hematoma in the optic nerve.

Preoperative Preparations:

Before scheduling the surgery, the patient should consult with a cosmetic surgeon to assess the effectiveness of the surgery in their case.

The patient should inform the surgeon of any thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, eye problems, or diabetes.

The surgeon at Clinic Arak may inquire about the patient’s chronic medications, including non-prescription drugs, and even supplements and herbs such as Ginkgo, Ginseng, garlic, and ginger, which may increase the risk of bleeding.

Physical Examination:

The surgeon will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, including a vision test and tear production assessment. Special equipment will be used to measure parts of the eyelid.

Imaging:

Before the surgery, the doctor will take images of the eyelids from various angles. These images help plan the surgery and assess its long-term effects.

Additionally, the patient should avoid alcohol before the surgery and stop taking any medications that inhibit blood clotting, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and plant supplements known for their bleeding potential.

It is recommended to discontinue these medications two weeks before the surgery, and their use can be resumed after consulting with the doctor.

During the Procedure:

The steps of upper eyelid surgery include:

If the patient undergoes both upper and lower eyelid surgery simultaneously, the surgeon will perform the upper eyelid surgery first.

The surgeon creates an incision along the natural crease of the upper eyelid, removing excess skin and a small amount of muscle and fat beneath the skin.

The incision is closed with fine stitches, leaving minimal scarring.

For lower eyelid surgery:

The incision is made either just below the eyelashes, in the natural crease of the eye, or inside the lower eyelid.

The surgeon removes excess fat, muscle, and skin. The stitches may be inside the eyelid or just below the eyelashes, depending on the incision location.

If the lower eyelid is sagging near the tear duct, additional surgery may be performed to address this issue, known as ptosis.

Eyelid surgery can be performed simultaneously with other procedures, such as brow lift or facelift. If the patient undergoes surgery solely for cosmetic improvement, insurance is not expected to cover the costs.

Postoperative Care:

Eyelid surgery typically takes less than two hours, depending on the amount of excess tissue to be removed. Afterward, the patient can recover in a short time and continue the healing process at home.

Generally, this type of surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, requiring the patient to stay overnight for observation. The surgery is conducted under local anesthesia, and the surgeon injects a numbing substance into the eyelids. The patient is also provided with intravenous medications for relaxation, causing mild unconsciousness while remaining awake.

The patient should refrain from exposing the skin to the sun for about a week before and after the surgery. Cold compresses can be used to reduce eyelid swelling.

Postoperative Tips:

If the patient does not receive specific instructions from the surgeon, they should adhere to the following precautions for a week after the surgery:

Avoid lifting weights exceeding 9 kg.

Avoid swimming.

Refrain from excessive activities, such as aerobic exercises or running.

Elevate the head higher than the chest while sleeping.

Follow the doctor’s instructions regarding eye cleaning and the use of eye drops.

Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, unusual pain, bleeding, or vision problems.

Results of the Surgery:

The disappearance of scars at the surgery site may take six months or more. During this period, the patient should protect the delicate eyelid skin from sun exposure.

Most people who undergo this surgery are satisfied with the final results, enhancing their confidence with a youthful and vibrant appearance. The results of this surgery typically remain unchanged throughout life.

This is what the doctors at Arak strive to provide—everything that is medical and cosmetic.