One of the most common oculoplasty (OPC) procedures is blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery. This surgery removes excess sagging skin from the eyelid, reducing the appearance of drooping that occurs with age. If there is herniated fatty tissue, it can be removed and/or repositioned in the same procedure. If there is also upper eyelid drooping, treatment for upper eyelid drooping can be performed in the same session. If there is eyebrow drooping, eyebrow lifting can also be added to this surgery. It can also be performed in conjunction with lower eyelid blepharoplasty (four-eyelid blepharoplasty). The decision on which of these surgeries to perform is made by weighing all the findings according to the patient’s needs and eye structure.
Sagging and/or bags under the upper or lower eyelids can cause aesthetic discomfort by making a person look tired, sad, and/or sleep-deprived. Additionally, sagging upper eyelid skin can weigh down the eyelashes, disrupting their natural upward curve and causing them to droop downwards, narrowing the field of vision and negatively impacting quality of life. Patients often constantly raise their eyebrows to lift their eyelids; the continuous use of the frontal muscles can lead to wrinkles on the forehead and headaches. Some patients experience fatigue and drowsiness while driving due to sagging and heaviness in their eyelids, requiring frequent breaks. In these patients, upper eyelid blepharoplasty is performed for functional treatment rather than purely aesthetic reasons. This allows patients to achieve more rested and vibrant eyes, a younger appearance, and improved quality of life.
The surgical scar is located within the natural upper eyelid crease (makeup line), so it is not visible when viewed from the front with the eyes open, and it is generally not very noticeable even with the eyes closed. Rest is recommended for the first week after surgery to allow for a healthy healing period. However, you can adjust this time more appropriately by discussing it with your doctor depending on your work situation. Since many factors such as prolonged exposure to sunlight, smoking and alcohol use, irregular sleep, and air pollution negatively affect wound healing in the eyelids, being mindful of these issues is important for the long-term success of your surgery.
A “PERSONALIZED” treatment plan should be developed for each patient, tailored to their unique characteristics and eye structure, and all details should be discussed and decided upon together with the patient. As an ophthalmologist who has received training in oculofascial surgery, has trained many young colleagues in this field during and after their specialization, and has extensive case experience in OPC (Occlusive Clinical Puncture), I plan and perform UC Blepharoplasty surgery by considering the eye and its surroundings as a whole, protecting the function and health of the eye.
*The page content is for informational purposes only. Outcomes may vary from person to person in any surgical procedure. For diagnosis and treatment, please consult your doctor.