Eyelid lift is a simple cosmetic and surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the eyes by removing sagging, excess skin, and puffiness that appear with age or due to hereditary factors. This procedure helps restore a youthful and active look, and sometimes treats vision problems resulting from drooping eyelids. This procedure is performed within Al Mousa Health Hospital according to therapeutic steps at the hands of the best surgeons and ophthalmologists. 

What is the eyelid lift procedure?

Eyelid lift is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess skin or fat accumulated around the eyes, which may affect appearance or hinder vision with age or for genetic reasons. The operation is performed under local or general anesthesia, where the surgeon makes fine incisions in the folds of the eyelid to remove excess skin or fat, then closes the incisions using fine threads or special skin glue. The results appear gradually, after the swelling and bruising disappear within about two weeks, and the results last for a long time, with the doctor’s instructions being followed after the operation to maintain the result.

Reasons for resorting to eyelid surgery

Eyelid lift surgery has become one of the common procedures that many people resort to, whether for health reasons or cosmetic purposes. It is not limited only to improving the appearance of the eyes, but also extends to include medical benefits related to improving vision and reducing fatigue resulting from tightening the facial muscles. Below we mention the most important reasons that push some people to undergo this operation:

• Drooping skin in the upper eyelid may hinder vision and make it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as reading or driving
• Excess skin may cover part of your side vision, affecting the field of peripheral vision
• Constantly tightening the facial muscles to try to open the eyes causes constant fatigue and may lead to chronic headaches
• Friction of loose skin with the eyes may cause irritation or a constant feeling of dryness

Cosmetic reasons

• Giving the eyes a more youthful and vibrant appearance and making the face appear energetic and bright
• Getting rid of under-eye bags and sagging gives a tighter, more harmonious appearance
• Widening the eye opening makes the eye appear clearer and larger, which adds an aesthetic touch to the face
• Feeling satisfied with the external appearance after the operation increases self-confidence and improves the psychological state

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The difference between an upper eyelid lift and a lower eyelid lift

Eyelid lift is one of the most common cosmetic procedures, and its types vary between upper eyelid lift and lower eyelid lift. Each type has its own goals, method, and advantages, whether from a medical or cosmetic standpoint. Each operation also differs in the steps of the procedure, the recovery period, and some of the risks that may accompany it. Below is a simplified explanation of the most important differences between upper and lower eyelid lifts:

Medical and cosmetic purposes

• The upper eyelid lift aims to remove excess skin that may hinder vision and improve the shape of the eye from above to make it appear wider and more vibrant.
• Lower eyelid lift focuses on removing bags under the eyes and tightening sagging skin to give a refreshed appearance and hide signs of fatigue and exhaustion.
• Both procedures contribute to rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes and giving the face a more youthful and rested appearance.

Procedure method

• In an upper eyelid lift, a small incision is made inside the crease of the upper eyelid to remove excess skin and muscle, then the wound is closed with fine sutures.
• In a lower eyelid lift, an incision is made either below the lash line or inside the eyelid to remove or redistribute fat and tighten sagging skin.

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• Swelling and bruising are common in the first days and begin to improve after about a week.
• You can return to daily activities after 7 to 10 days for the upper eyelid and after 10 to 14 days for the lower eyelid.
• The final result appears gradually and stabilizes over a few months.

Potential risks and complications

• Minor bleeding or local inflammation in the area of ​​the surgical incision.
• Temporary dryness or irritation in the eyes.
• Temporary difficulty closing the eyelid completely during the healing period.
• Possibility of complete asymmetry in shape between the eyes.
• In rare cases, complications such as eversion of the lower eyelid or double vision may occur.

The most important tips for after eyelid lift surgery

After performing an eyelid lift, the body needs sufficient time to heal, and the eyes need special care to ensure the best possible result and reduce any possible complications. There are a set of important instructions that must be followed after the operation, which include direct care of the eye and the wound, in addition to simple lifestyle changes that help speed up recovery and achieve a healthy, natural appearance.

Medical care for eyes and wounds after surgery

• Gently wash the area around the wound with lukewarm water and mild soap once a day without rubbing. 
• Use the prescribed medical ointment to moisturize the surgical incisions in the evening.
• Apply lubricating eye drops if you feel dry or itchy. 
• Use cold compresses on the eyes for a quarter of an hour every hour during the first day and then two to three times daily after that to reduce swelling. 
• Take prescribed medications on time and avoid painkillers such as aspirin and ibuprofen because they increase the possibility of bleeding. 

Post-operative lifestyle tips

• Sleep on your back with your head elevated with an additional pillow to reduce swelling and avoid pressure on the eyes. 
• Avoid any violent physical exertion, such as exercise or lifting weights, for three to four weeks.
• Light walking is allowed after surgery to stimulate blood circulation without stress.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits and drink enough water to speed up wound healing.
• Avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages as they delay healing and increase swelling.
• Protect the eyes from the sun by using sunglasses, wearing a hat, or applying appropriate sunscreen after the wound has healed.
• Refrain from using makeup in the eye area until the doctor allows it.
• Do not wear contact lenses until at least two to three weeks have passed.
• Refrain from smoking because it slows tissue healing and increases the risk of inflammation.

Medical follow-up

• Commitment to follow-up appointments with the doctor to examine the wound and ensure proper recovery.
• Refer to the doctor immediately if severe pain, bleeding, or high temperature occurs.
• Following these instructions carefully will help speed up recovery and obtain natural and safe results without complications.

Book your consultation now at مركز الجلدية والتجميل At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital.

Who are the candidates for eyelid surgery?

Eyelid lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure that helps improve the appearance of the eyes and reduce the effects of aging. It is also used for medical purposes in some cases in which sagging eyelids affect vision. However, not all cases are suitable for performing this operation. There are certain criteria that make a person a good candidate for it. On the other hand, there are medical cases in which it is preferable to avoid the operation to avoid complications.

Medical candidates

• Who suffers from obvious sagging in the upper eyelid that hinders vision or causes difficulty in opening the eye. 
• Who feels muscle fatigue in the forehead due to constantly raising the eyebrows to compensate for drooping eyelids. 
• Who enjoys good general health and does not suffer from unstable chronic diseases. 
• Who does not have problems with wound healing. 

Candidates for cosmetic reasons

• Who wants to rejuvenate the appearance of his eyes and make them more youthful and vibrant. 
• Who suffers from fatty bags under the eyes or sagging lower eyelids that cause a tired appearance. 
• Who wants to get rid of fine wrinkles around the eyes and tighten sagging skin. 
• Who has logical and realistic expectations regarding the results of the operation. 

Situations in which the operation is not recommended

• Who suffers from chronic diseases such as uncontrolled blood pressure or diabetes. 
• Who has eye problems such as severe dryness, glaucoma, or chronic infections. 
• Who suffers from poor wound healing or the appearance of prominent scars after surgical operations. 
• Anyone who smokes heavily or takes blood-thinning medications without medical supervision. 
• Those who have unrealistic expectations regarding the results of the operation and want a radical change that are difficult to achieve. 

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Complications of eyelid surgery

Eyelid lift is a common surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyes and get rid of sagging, but it may carry some potential complications. Below we mention the most important of these complications:

Complications are common and temporary

• Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising around the eyes is normal after surgery, and often goes away within two weeks.​
• Dry eyes: Some people may feel dry or itchy eyes, and lubricating drops can be used to relieve these symptoms.​
• Difficulty closing the eyes: In some cases, the patient may find temporary difficulty closing the eyes completely, which may lead to dry eyes.​
• Eye allergy: Temporary sensitivity to light or a feeling of the presence of a foreign body in the eye may appear.​

Less common complications

• Infection: Although rare, infection may occur at the surgical site, and is usually treated with antibiotics.​
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur during or after surgery and is considered rare.​
• Noticeable scarring: In some cases, surgery may leave visible scars, especially if the wounds do not heal well.​
• Skin discoloration: A change in skin color around the eyes may occur and is often temporary.​

Rare and serious complications

• Eye muscle injury: Surgery may affect the eye muscles, leading to poor eyelid movement or double vision.​
• Optic nerve damage: In very rare cases, the optic nerves may be affected, affecting vision.
• Blood collection: Blood may accumulate under the skin, causing a hematoma that requires medical intervention.​
  Reaction to anesthesia: Some patients may experience an allergy to anesthetics, leading to respiratory problems or other reactions.​

Signs of process failure

• Persistent ptosis: If the ptosis persists after surgery, this may be a sign of failure of the operation.​
• Permanent difficulty closing the eye: If difficulty closing the eye continues after the recovery period, this may indicate a problem with the surgery.​
• Asymmetry between the eyes: Asymmetry may appear in the appearance of the eyes if the surgery is not performed accurately.

Frequently asked questions about eyelid lift surgery:

How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?

The recovery period from eyelid lift surgery usually takes between two to three weeks. Swelling and bruising begin to improve during the first days, and the stitches are often removed after a week. You can return to light activities within ten days, but the final result appears gradually within two months, with complete adherence to medical instructions.

Does eyelid lift surgery leave a mark?

An eyelid lift operation may leave a very slight scar, but it is often unnoticeable because the surgeon places the incisions in hidden places such as skin folds or under the eyelash line. The scars heal gradually and become faint over time, and with good care, they may disappear almost unnoticed.

Does eyelid surgery make the eyes smaller?

An eyelid lift does not make the eye smaller, but rather it may make it appear wider and clearer by removing sagging skin that may cover part of the upper eyelid or cause puffiness under the eyes. However, if it is performed inaccurately, it may temporarily affect the shape of the eye and cause slight narrowing that will go away later.

In the end, eyelid lift surgery is considered one of the effective solutions to improve the appearance of the eyes and get rid of signs of fatigue or aging. It also sometimes contributes to improving vision when there is severe sagging, and with adherence to the doctor’s instructions at Al Mousa Health Hospital and attention to the recovery period, natural and safe results that last for years can be achieved.

Sources 

How To Fix Droopy Eyelids – levelandclinic

Exercises to Strengthen Drooping Eyelid Muscles – healthline