Eyelid surgery, clinically known as blepharoplasty, is generally considered a safe procedure with a low incidence of complications. However, eyes are the most delicate external organ in the body, which makes it important that any cosmetic surgery around the eyes should only be performed by a proven expert.
On their part, the patients should be prepared to cooperate with the surgeon and carefully follow pre- and post-op instructions for safe outcomes.
Dr. Daniel Lin is a board certified plastic surgeon providing eyelid surgery and other cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Lin will discuss the potential risks with the patient during the initial consultation. He provides eyelid surgery to patients in West Covina, Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, Pasadena, Diamond Bar, and other cities in this part of the nation.
Major Complications
Severe complications in blepharoplasty may only occur in very rare cases. These may include ectropian, hematoma and retinal detachment. Ectropian is a kind of droopy effect that will result in the lower eyelid becoming inverted. If this condition occurs after eyelid cosmetic surgery, a revision procedure may have to be performed to correct it.
Hematoma refers to fluid collection beneath the skin in the incision areas. The risk may be higher when both lower and upper eyelid procedures are performed along with additional surgeries such as facelift or forehead lift. The surgeon may place temporary drain tubes under the skin to mitigate the risk.
In extremely rare instances, the patient may experience retinal detachment. This causes the retina to separate from the outer layers of the eye. Tears or holes in the retina may cause this condition. Retinal detachment can be corrected with additional surgery.
Additional Risks
Some of the less severe complications that may result after eyelid surgery may include:
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Infection
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Excessive tearing
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Adverse reaction to anesthesia
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Dry eyes
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Burning sensation in the eyes
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Unfavorable scarring
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Appearance of whiteheads
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Poor ability to keep the eyes closed during sleep
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Blurry or double vision
In many cases, these conditions will clear up without treatment in a few days. But in a few patients, a complication may persist for the long term, or may become permanent. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Lin receives patients from West Covina, Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, Pasadena, Diamond Bar, and other Southern California cities for eyelid surgery.
Minor Side Effects
Post-operative Discomfort
Mild pain, irritation, and soreness in the incision areas may be felt in the first week. Once the effect of anesthesia goes off, the patient will feel soreness and tightness in the eyelids. The surgeon will prescribe pain meds for a few days to keep the patient comfortable during recovery.
Swelling
Mild redness and minor swelling is likely to occur in the treated areas after eyelid surgery. Cold compresses or ice therapy should be used in the first two to three days to minimize swelling.
Scarring
Some degree of scarring is inevitable, but the scars will usually be well-hidden, and will gradually become more inconspicuous in most cases.
Click here to learn more about all the plastic surgery procedures and treatments cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin performs for patients in and around Pasadena, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, West Covina, Inland Empire, and San Gabriel Valley. Call today to schedule a consultation 626.810.6165 or click here.
