Dry Eye - Temporary or Permanent After Upper Bleph?

It is quite common to have some dry eye symptoms after an eyelid lift (blepharoplasty). The inflammation after surgery can lead to reduced tear production and dry eyes. This is temporary in the vast majority of cases. While rarely possible, lasting dry eyes can occur. This may be due to inflammatory changes to the lacrimal gland. In nearly all cases dry eye is temporary and can be improved with lubrication like natural tears and/or eye ointment. By using lubrication in the healing phase you can avoid dry eye symptoms and allow your eyes to return to their normal state comfortably.

I hope this info helps!

The most important step in preventing postoperative complications with dry eyes after surgery is not the surgery itself or how much skin is removed.  

Three steps to avoiding dry eyes after eyelid surgery:


 The most important step is  a good medical history Medical History.  The surgeon should find out         whether you have any history of dry eyes or have been treated for conditions related to dry eyes.  Do you frequently use moisturizing eye drops.  Have you had Lasik surgery which can decrease the sensitivity of the eyes and place you at risk.  Have you ever been treated with punctual plugs or Re-stasis for dry eye conditions.  Thyroid disease, Sjogren's syndrome can also contribute.  And the most important of all.  Have you had previous eyelid surgery.

If your eyes are dry for any of the above reasons it is important that you have a thorough ophthalmologic exam including a slit lamp exam and schirmer tear test prior to any eyelid surgery.  These are important tests to help determine if your eyes are too dry for eyelid surgery.

If your are a reasonable candidate based on the History and Physical exam above then seeking out a skilled surgeon who will not remove too much skin and using eye drops (Refresh Plus) for a few weeks after surgery will protect you from dry eye complications.


Follow the above steps and you will not have to worry about the possibility of long term dry eyes