Upper blepharoplasty is a fairly straightforward, minimal risk surgery in experienced hands. The scarring is in most cases hardly perceptible, and and wound healing problems/infection are extremely rare due to the generous blood supply in the area. The anatomy is fairly consistent, limiting the chance for damage to surrounding structures, again in the hands of an experienced surgeon. Perhaps the greatest risk is that of under or over resection of skin. Again, accurate judgement on the part of the surgeon comes with experience. Over-resection can result in dry eyes, but his is usually self limited as the upper eyes are very forgiving. Under-resection is easily corrected by excising additional skin. Please not that many cases of post-operative lid heaviness are really due to brow droop rather than upper lid skin excess. Surgeons often point out that patients should have a brow lift before or in conjunction with upper eyelid surgery. This may come as a surprise to patients as the public is more familiar with upper eyelid skin excision as opposed to brow malposition. For best results, discuss this with your surgeon prior to surgery.
Upper lid surgery is not a very risky surgery if performed by a well trained physician. The surgery involves removing excess upper lid skin and herniated fat. Care must be taken not to remove too much skin, or the eye won't close and the eyes can dry out. Other risks include scarring and asymmetry (one side different from the other). Infection is rare. Bruising is usually minimal and resolves in about a week.
As with any major cosmetic surgery, there are inherent risks associated with upper eyelid surgery. Some of these risks include intense and unsightly swelling, bruising, bleeding and scarring. Along with the specific risks associated with an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, there are general risks such as infection or any adverse effects to medication or anesthetics. While some patients think they want upper eyelid surgery, the desired results can sometimes be achieved with similar procedures such as an eyebrow lift or other non-surgical alternatives. I have repeatedly seen patients walk into my office and stubbornly insist on having a procedure done when in reality it might not improve their situation as much as an alternative surgery or non-surgical option. Please be sure to fully explore all options and risks before undergoing any major surgery, especially one on such a sensitive part of your face.
