Are you awake during blepharoplasty surgery (upper eyelid)?

Question

I heard that blepharoplasty is usually done with local anesthesia. I'm concerned because I definitely don't want to see anything during this type of surgery. Can I do it while sleeping? If yes, how do I not see anything if (I suppose) my eyes are exposed?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

I usually perform blepharoplasty with local anesthesia, which can be combined with oral or IV sedation to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia is less expensive and carries fewer risks than general, which makes it preferable in most cases. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with the board-certified facial plastic surgeon you choose for your procedure. A qualified, experienced surgeon will tailor your treatment to your precise needs to ensure your surgery is safe, comfortable, and successful.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

It can be done either way. Frankly it is easier and less expensive to have done under local anesthesia with oral sedation as shown in attached video; your eyes are closed during the procedure. But if you want to be sleep for it, then IV sedation or twilight sleep is okay too.

Athanasios Christopoulos, MD · Answer

Blepharoplasty can be performed under any type of anesthesia of the face. The best solution for you is local anesthesia combined with IV sedation. In this way, you will feel comfortable and the surgeon will have the conditions needed to perform easily his job

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

You can undergo upper blepharoplasty surgery using local anesthesia, iv sedation or twilight or you can be completely asleep for the surgical procedure. The choice is ultimately yours and many of my patients choose to go to sleep for the procedure or at least use twilight or iv sedation. I also do many upper eyelid surgeries under local anesthesia. The bottom line is the surgery itself is done the same way no matter which type of anesthesia you decide to use so I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Jeffrey Joseph, MD, FACS · Answer

IPatients having blepharoplasty can choose to have it done under local anesthesia, local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia.  It is a matter of both the surgeon and patient preference.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

I strongly recommend against trying to have the surgery performed under what is called  straight local. It can be done but is unpleasant. I also strongly recommend against having blepharoplasty under general anesthesia. The reason for this is that to get the best eyelid surgery result, it is essential to be able to monitor the effect of surgery while it is being performed by having the patient open and close the eyelid. This can be very comfortably accomplished with the intravenous sedation.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

An upper eyelid surgery is one that can usually be done easily with local sedation.  You can also have some pills for anxiety if needed.  Your eyes are closed so you won't see what is actually being done.  The only discomfort is the injection of local anesthesia. For patients who are too anxious to do it this way, you can have IV sedation.  It is your choice.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

The type of anesthesia for a cosmetic procedure can vary, and the decision ultimately is made by the surgeon.  I normally perform upper blepharoplasty with local anesthesia and IV sedation.  Patients will normally just fall asleep during the procedure although they are breathing on their own.  I have never had anyone feel uncomfortable with this type of anesthesia for this procedure.  I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon however.

James J. Chao, MD · Answer

I understand that this procedure (and any) can create fear and worry. It is minimally invasive and the real thing isn't so bad. Should you elect to use general anesthesia this is your choice. Another alternative is anti-anxiety medication or a similar sedative to relax you during this procedure.

Jin Joong Kim, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question!
Depending on the procedures that you are having, but in case the patient is scared of being awake during the surgery deep-sleep anesthesia is injected. Be sure you have an in-office consultation, and all details about how the surgery will go are going to be explained. 
Dr. Kim, Seoul Queen PS, South Korea

Are you awake during blepharoplasty surgery (upper eyelid)?

Answers (15)

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