Will Bleph Effect Dry Eyes Problem?

Rob,
If you have dry eyes and you are considering blepharoplasty, it may be helpful to have an ophthalmologic exam prior to your surgery. While certain procedures can help, it is also possible that blepharoplasty could worsen the symptoms. Just make sure you explore all your options before having surgery.

Undergoing either upper or lower blepharoplasty can exacerbate existing dry eye symptoms. Before any plastic surgery is performed, a thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist is warranted to assess the severity and possible cause of your symptoms. That will allow a dialogue between you and your surgeon about the safety of undergoing blepharoplasty. 

The fact is that a sizable minority of patients having functional upper lid Blepharoplasty in their 60's have some degree of dry eye issues.  The reason for this is that baseline tear production naturally decreases with age.  In fact, many patients present with what they describe as "wet eyes".  This relates to decreased baseline tear production, which stimulates occasional reflexive tearing.  Truly significant functional dry eye issues tend to occur in patients who have a) severe dry eye issues prior to surgery, b) upper lid skin resected at the time of surgery, or c) Both a and b.  My rule of thumb is that any patient who is able to wear contacts does not have dry eyes.  My second rule of thumb is that any patient who cannot make it for 3-4 hours without using artificial tears should probably not have surgery.  My third rule of thumb is that removal of upper eyelid skin should always be judicious (the "pinch" technique).  I concur with the advice above that any "dry eye" patient considering upper eyelid surgery should consult with an Ophthalmologist.