Types Of Eyelid Surgery – Fix Several Eyelid Issues With Different Eyelid Surgeries
|NO ONE on this earth wants to look dull due to their bad facial appearance. Even, women at the age of 50s want to look young by hiding their aging appearance with surgical treatments and several other options.
Eyelid surgery is one of the most common and effective treatment to get rid of aging issues and several eyelid problems. Such eyelid problems include droopy eyelids, sagging eyelids, swollen eyelids, puffy eyelids, eyelid dermatitis, uneven eyelids and more.
So, here I am going to mention all about eyelid surgery and their types. There are several types of eyelid surgery that are taken into consideration to fix different eyelid issues.
Without wasting time, just go through this blog and know what type of eyelid surgery you should opt as per your requirement. The selection of eyelid surgery types will be based on the eyelid issue you are facing.
Need Of Eyelid Surgery For Different Eyelid Issues
It is true that only you and your consultant doctor know well when it is a time for eyelid surgery. Your doctor may think to get you operated with eyelid surgery treatment if you have the following eyelid issues:
- Skin above the eyes started to sag
- Have eye bags constantly
- Eye Puffiness all the time
- Lower eyelid sag down
- Upper eyelid blocks the vision
- Heavy Eyelids
If you have any of these eyelid issues then there is a great need to undergo eyelid surgery but it is important to select the correct types of eyelid surgery for your betterment.
Here, it’s time to know about types of eyelid surgery that are considered for different eyelid issues. So, go through the eyelid surgery types one by one and see which one suits your eyelid condition.
Types Of Eyelid Surgery
There are several types of eyelid surgery that are recommended by the doctor for different eyelid issues. Some are easy to perform but some are really tough for surgeons as it can affect your facial appearance if anything was done wrong. So, here are the lists of eyelid surgery types that you can consider if you find any kind of eyelid issue that may affect your facial appearance.
- Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
- Functional Eyelid Surgery
- Upper Blepharoplasty
- Lower Blepharoplasty
- Plastic Surgery For Droopy Eyelids
- Eyelid Reduction Surgery
- Asian Eyelid Surgery
- Canthoplasty Surgery
- Laser Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery
- Reconstructive Eyelid Surgery
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
The cosmetic eyelid surgery is a procedure that is generally done to rejuvenate the lower as well as upper eyelids, which is called blepharoplasty. Cosmetic eyelid surgery helps improve the appearance of both; lower as well as upper eyelids by simply redistributing or removing fat pockets from the lower and upper eyelids.
It gives a woman more rested and youthful appearance. As we all know that the eyes are such a focused part of the face when meeting others. If you treat your eyelids then it can really make great changes in your life.
Who Are The Best Candidates For Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
Well, the best candidates for cosmetic eyelid surgery are those who are in good health. Also, this surgery is for those who have realistic expectations. People with age of 35 or older may undergo this surgery or if drooping or baggy eyelids run in the family then this surgery is the best option.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery can enhance ones’ facial appearance and also helps build confidence. Though it may not result in your ideal look or it can even alter your facial appearance. Before deciding to have cosmetic eyelid surgery, you should once think about the goals and should consult once to your doctor.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Procedures
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is generally used to treat the signs of aging. This surgical procedure is generally done on both upper as well as lower eyelids. The procedure for the upper eyelid and lower eyelids correction are different from each other. So, look below to know procedure:
- Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery On Upper Eyelids:
During the procedure to correct upper eyelid with cosmetic eyelid surgery, the doctor will make a cut or incision along the eyelid crease in the eyelid’s skin fold which is natural.
After this, the doctor will remove the excess fat, skin or muscle from the eyelids. At last, he/she will close the incision and the scar will be hidden in the eyelid’s natural skin fold.
- Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery On Lower Eyelids:
During the procedure to correct lower eyelid with cosmetic eyelid surgery, the doctor will make a cut or incision that will be just below the lower eyelashes or inside the eyelids. He/she will then remove the extra fat, skin or muscle from the bags under the eyes. Also, a small amount of eyelid skin may be removed.
Things To Consider Before Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
Below are some of the important points that you should consider before you undergo cosmetic eyelid surgery:
- Never take Advil, aspirin, Motrin or any other products that contain aspirin for the last two weeks.
- Stop smoking if you smoke regularly
- Have plenty of ice or saline eye drops for post-surgery care.
Recovery After Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
You can look here how you can do recovery after cosmetic eyelid surgery. So, look below and keep in your kid because you can also face this situation once:
- Patients generally feel slight irritation and discomfort for a few days
- Sutures or stitches are removed in next 5 to 7 days
- Patients can move to their normal routine in the next 7 to 10 days
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Results
When the surgery is done and the stitches are removed then a patient’s eyes will no longer look droopy and the skin under the eyes should feel firm and smooth. A patient will look more alert and awake rather than looking sad or tired they were used to look before the surgery.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Cost
Cosmetic eyelid surgery cost varies as it is completely based on the specific treatment goals and some other services you may also undergo. A surgeon will discuss the cost of cosmetic eyelid surgery during the consultation.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Risks
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is quite safe procedure, however, with any surgery, there are some risks that include bleeding, infection or scarring. In order to avoid all these issues, you may follow the pre and post-operative instructions of the care team.
Some most common complications that are specific to eyelid surgery are minor and rare, but these include:
- Slight imbalance
- Blurred vision
- Ectropion
Functional Eyelid Surgery
Functional eyelid surgery, a surgical procedure is generally performed to improve the appearance of the eyelids. It gives the eyes a more youthful appearance with the removal of lax muscle, bulging fat or extra skin from the lower as well as upper eyelids.
A functional eyelid surgery is generally performed most specifically when the excess drooping skin of the upper eyelids blocks the upper half of the visual field. Not like cosmetic eyelid surgery, functional eyelid surgery is considered a medical condition.
With the removal of extra skin that is generally bunched up along the eyelid, the shading effect on the eyelid can be easily reversed and the eye vision can be improved easily.
When Do You Need To Under Functional Eyelid Surgery
Functional eyelid surgery is a special procedure that is done to improve a person’s eye vision. Whether because of aging issue or other issues, drooping of the upper eyelid or sometimes the eyelids become so severe that the tissue hangs over the eyelash line and obstructs the clear eye vision.
The observation of the eyelid positioning and tissue combines with a visual field test typically provides enough information to examine that if a person is actually a candidate to undergo functional eyelid surgery.
Functional Eyelid Surgery Procedure
Ophthalmologists who are board-certified will only perform functional eyelid surgery on the upper eyelids so that the extra tissue from the visual field can be removed.
The outpatient surgical procedure involves local anesthesia and mild sedation. At first, your ophthalmologist will be required to place discreet incision just within the eyelid’s natural crease. Via this incision, the ophthalmologist will remove the extra skin from the upper eyelids.
During the complete procedure of the surgery, the ophthalmologist will simply monitor symmetry closely to make sure that both a functional and aesthetically great outcome. However, for extended cosmetic results, the patients may also select to include brow lift or lower eyelid surgery into their procedure.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty is a surgical reconstruction or repair of the upper eyelid which also includes the upper eyelid skin’s management, underlying ptosis, medial orbital fat, orbital septum and deficient or excess preaponeurotic. The upper blepharoplasty can be performed for reconstructive or cosmetic reasons and sometimes often both.
Generally, dermatochalasis refers to the redundancy or laxity of eyelid muscle and skin. This issue is generally caused because of the loss of elastic tissues, weakening of connective tissue in eyelids, thinning of the epidermis, aging and mechanical forces.
Who Need To Undergo Upper Blepharoplasty
Sometimes, patients report sagging, drooping, tired appearing eyelids that used to interfere with several activities of daily routine. However, in most of the cases, the patients may have to lift the eyelid skin upward manually so that the visual field can be improved.
Well, the best candidate for upper eyelid surgery or upper blepharoplasty is a person whose upper eyelid skin touches the eyelashes. There, the incisions is hidden right just in the upper eyelid crease and a very small amount of extra fat and skin is removed from the upper eyelids so that it can give more definition to the patients.
Upper Blepharoplasty Procedure
During the upper blepharoplasty procedure, the doctor will mark the area of the upper eyelid creases which should be 8-10 mm in women and 7-9 mm in men.
With the use of smooth forceps, redundant skin is grasped superior to the previously marked upper eyelid crease and the superior limit of the eyelid skin to be excised is marked centrally, nasally and temporally, while taking care to not open the eyelids during the procedure.
A curved line that connects the marks is generally made with a surgical marking pen. Proper care should be taken to leave at least 20 mm of eyelid skin between the thicker eyebrow and the eyelid margin skin.
Both the eyelids are measured with the help of calipers to make sure that symmetric amount of eyelid skin remains prior to the anesthetic’s injection.
Next, an injection filled with local anesthetic with epinephrine is injected in the eyelid skin area to be removed. During this, a proper are should be taken in order to avoid distortion and tension of the tissues with the drapes.
After this, an incision is made along the previously marked eyelid area. This is generally performed with a standard laser, blade or needle tip cautery unit.
The incisions are sutured and the eyelid crease reformation is performed if needed.
The Postoperative Tips To Follow After Upper Blepharoplasty
You have to follow the below tips after you undergo upper blepharoplasty to fix droopy eyelids, hooded eyelids or saggy eyelids:
- Make sure that you apply intermittent cold packs for the first 24 hours, followed by nothing for 24 hours and warm packs for the following 24 hours.
- The bruising or little swelling varies among individuals
- 90% of the swelling resolves in just a few days, most probably within 4 to 5 days
- Do not forget to apply ophthalmic antibiotic ointment to the incision eye sites 3 times a day for at least 1 week.
- Remove stiches or sutures in just 3 to 5 days.
- Do not forget to visit your doctor for visual checks postoperatively.
Upper Blepharoplasty Cost
The cost of upper eyelids surgery or upper blepharoplasty generally depends on the complexity and type of the procedure done.
However, the average cost of upper blepharoplasty has been estimated $4000. But if you have claimed insurance then the carriers will cover only the cost of upper blepharoplasty if the patient has obstruction of their visual field.
This detail should be documented during the examination with format visual field photographs and testing.
However, there are some insurance carriers that require submission of the visual photographs and fields before they approve the blepharoplasty as a medically indicated procedure.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty is a collection of surgical techniques that helps improving the appearance of the lower eyelid. It is a reductive procedure in which the skin or the fat is removed to reduce fat bulges, lower eyelids wrinkles and skin redundancy.
While skin or fat excision is performed with lower blepharoplasty, it follows a tissue preserving philosophy that can include the sub-orbicularis and orbitals fat repositioning. It also follows a fat transfer technique in order to restore the apparent volume loss associated with facial aging.
Do you know that hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers were emerged as an off-label means of infra-orbital and lower eyelid volumization. Light-based and laser energy treatments have also been applied to the lower eyelids which provides non-surgical lower eyelid surgery options or non-surgical adjuncts to the incisional eyelid surgery.
Who Are The Best Candidates For Lower Blepharoplasty
Well, the most applicable candidates for lower blepharoplasty are those individuals who meet the below-mentioned conditions:
- Never Smoke
- Have healthy facial muscle and tissue
- People in good health
- Have no serious eye problems
Suppose if there is a patient who has sagging, puffy, hooded droopy eyelids or loose skins beneath their eyes, then this surgical treatment can help them reduce the unwanted effects. Also, it will help them leave the eyes looking fresh and young.
However, it is quite vital for patients to have some realistic expectations before you undergo lower eyelids surgery so that you can be satisfied with their results.
As this surgical procedure can enhance their facial appearance and may also improve self-confidence. This treatment cannot alter a patient’s appearance or can change the structure of the face.
Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Procedure
The lower eyelid surgery procedure is generally performed with general or local anesthesia. This procedure will be determined by the amount of fat that needs to be removed, the location of the fat and how to tighten loose skin on eyelids. This surgical procedure generally takes from 40 minutes to an hour.
Several different surgical approaches are there that can be used in a lower eyelid surgery. Below are the approaches:
- TRANSCONJUNCTIVAL LOWER LID BLEPHAROPLASTY
When there is no need to remove the skin, a transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty creates an incision on the lower eyelid’s inside portion while leaving no visible scar or other surgery’s evidence.
- TRANSCUTANEOUS LOWER LID BLEPHAROPLASTY
A transcutaneous lower eyelid blepharoplasty is performed with a subciliary incision which is also known as a pinch technique. It is generally done to remove extra skin and protruding fat.
- TRANSCONJUNCTIVAL ARCUS MARGINALIS RELEASE
A transconjunctival arcus marginalis release removes the fat that is present within the eyelid to maintain some volume in the eyelid soft tissue. This procedure prevents the ridge of orbital bone from becoming so prominent due to which it causes the face to appear older and eyes to look hollow.
When the lower blepharoplasty procedure is done and performed completely, the incisions are closed with stitches and they are usually wrapped in gauze to allow the eyelid area to heal.
Postoperative Care For Lower Blepharoplasty
Below are the list of some postoperative care for lower eyelid surgery that you should follow to get best results:
- Strenuous activity is generally avoided for some days or weeks after this eyelid surgery.
- Cold compresses are generally recommended to reduce the swelling in the first 48 hours which is followed by warm compresses.
- Ophthalmic antibiotic or bland ointment or drops are generally applied for the first postoperative week.
- Patients are instructed on concerning symptoms that would generally indicate infection or bleeding that would necessitate contact with their surgeon.
- A follow-up visit is generally planned within a week of surgery and non-absorbable sutures are then removed 5 -7 days after the eyelid surgery to avoid excessive scarring and suture tracks.
Results of a Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Procedure
The lower blepharoplasty procedure’s results are generally visible as bruising and swelling subsides and will continue to improve the facial appearance up to a year after the eyelid surgery.
The lower blepharoplasty procedure is mainly designed to produce long-lasting results. It can only remove swelling and bruising from the eyelid area but it will not prevent you from having aging eyelids.
Complications After Lower Blepharoplasty
Below are the most common complications that people may notice after they undergo lower blepharoplasty:
- Chemosis
- Suture cysts
- Lagophthalmos
- Retrobulbar hemorrhage
- Blurry vision
- Overcorrection or undercorrection of steatoblepharon
- Hypertrophic scar
- Dry eyelids
- Inferior oblique muscle injury
- Lower eyelid retraction
- Skin discoloration
- Ectropion
- Anterior lamellar shortage
Lower Blepharoplasty Costs
The cost of lower blepharoplasty generally depends on the type and the complexity of the procedure done.
The estimated average costs for lower blepharoplasty is $5000. However, if you have claimed insurance then it can cover some of the expenses but not a complete expense of the surgery.
Look at this pictorial representation of upper and lower blepharoplasty
Source: https://www.beverlywilshiremedical.com/cosmetic-surgery/getting-double-eyelid-surgery/
Plastic Surgery For Droopy Eyelids
Plastic surgery is generally done to fix droopy eyelids. The plastic surgery for droopy eyelids will remove the excess fat, muscle or skin from the eyelids. Also, it can remove all these from upper as well as lower eyelids. It is a special surgical procedure that raises the margin portion of the upper eyelids with tightening the muscle and tendon that elevate it in a normal way.
Sometimes it happens that the upper and the lower eyelids become so droop or baggy and it is nothing but just signs of aging. Due to aging issue, the eyelids skin stretches and the muscle becomes weaker and the fat pockets become more prominent as they start swelling.
When Plastic Surgery For Droopy Eyelids Is Needed?
A plastic surgery is actually an eyelid surgery which is performed to treat several other eyelid conditions other than droopy eyelids. In some cases, plastic surgery is just done to remove loose skin from the upper and lower eyelid when it droops a lot. In such condition, sometimes even the eye vison gets impaired.
Some other conditions where plastic surgery is required to be done:
- Irritation due to the extra folds of eyelids skin
- Forehead discomfort from overused eyelid muscles
Plastic surgery for droopy eyelid is actually performed by ophthalmologists or oculoplastic surgeons. But this surgery can also be performed by oral maxillofacial and general plastic surgeons.
Best Candidates For Eyelid Plastic Surgery
If you have excess droopy or saggy eyelids then this surgery is only for you. Plastic surgery on your eyelids can fix droopy eyelids or sagging eyelids or baggy eyelids with ease.
You should consult your doctor before you decide to undergo this plastic surgery for droopy eyelids. He/she will evaluate whether you have any kind of medical issues related to your eyelids.
This surgery will help those people with heavy droopy eyelids to improve their facial appearance. This aging treatment will definitely help you get younger-looking skin even when you are 50.
Plastic Surgery For Droopy Eyelids Procedure
Plastic surgery is done on lower as well as upper eyelids or sometimes it is done on both the eyelids. While performing this surgery, the incisions are generally made in the eyelid’s natural folds, most probably in the upper eyelid’s crease. Also, sometimes they are made beneath the eyelashes and behind the lower eyelids.
During this procedure, the surgeon will make you precise marking so that it can locate the extra skin and fat pads are need to be removed. These tissues are removed with the help of surgical instruments like scalpels, surgical scissors, cutting lasers, radiofrequency cutting devices, etc. Sutures or tissue adhesive are generally applied carefully to reconfigure or smooth the eyelid area and eyebrow areas as well.
Eyelid Plastic Surgery Cost
When it comes to the eyelid plastic surgery cost, the average cost for this eyelid surgery is $3026. However, this cost may vary by the experience of the surgeon, region, medial facilities and more.
This cost does not include the cost for operating room facilities and the anesthesia that he/she will give during the procedure. It will depend on the location and needs.
This cost will increase if you want both the eyelids – upper as well as lower to get operated to fix droopy eyelids.
Results Of Eyelid Plastic Surgery
The results of the eyelid plastic surgery will be long-lasting. However, there will be a little pain involved in this plastic surgery to fix droopy eyelids, there can also be little bruising or swelling.
Mostly, patients get back to their previous daily routine in just 10-14 days.
Eyelid Reduction Surgery
Eyelid reduction surgery is generally done to remove extra skin on eyelids. This surgery will definitely help you to get youthful-looking skin even at the age of 40 or 50. If you are having extra skin on your eyelids and want to get it removed then this surgery is the best option for you.
With eyelid reduction surgery, you will get a more rejuvenated facial look. So, to make yourself look younger, you need to undergo eyelid reduction surgery.
Who Are The Best Candidates For Eyelid Reduction Surgery?
This type of eyelid surgery is the best recommended individualized procedure and it is not for everyone. So, it is always suggested to first consult with your doctor if you have excess skin on your eyelids and want to remove it at any cost.
Your surgeon or doctor will first examine your general health and eye condition and based on that, he/she will plan the treatment for you.
Eyelid Reduction Surgery Procedure
During the eyelid reduction surgery, general anesthesia is generally followed by a single night stay in hospital. The incision of the upper eyelid is the natural crease line 10mm above the eyelashes and this crease line will extend out into the crow’s foot area.
With this procedure, the excess skin and muscle is removed which used to form the hood. If there will be a requirement to remove the further shape of the upper eyelid’s crease. The excess skin and fat can be taken from the inner aspect of the upper eyelid where it adjoins the bridge of the nose.
Most of the time, extra fat is present at the upper eyelid’s outer part and above this eyelid area near the eyebrow.
When this is done, the upper eyelid incision is closed using the continuous suture, running from a single end to another one of the incision line.
The extra fat is removed from behind the upper and lower eyelid which will return to the normal contour without having any previous swelling. The lower eyelid’s inside portion is healed without the need of any stitches at all.
After the procedure is done, an ointment needs to be applied to the lower eyelids. Such ointment should contain some antibiotics so that it can prevent infection and a steroid which is used as an anti-inflammatory in order to decrease swollen eyelids issue.
How Long Does It Take For Eyelid Reduction Surgery Recovery?
After the procedure is done, you have to take rest in bed. Some anti-inflammatory and antibiotic ointments will be applied to the skin on the eyelid area. Also, at that time, your eyes will be covered with a soothing dressing of wet gauze.
You will then experience mild bruising and swelling. Also, you may have some slight discomfort which can be controlled with a simple pain killer like paracetamol.
Lower eyelid stitches are generally dissolved and so this is left alone with an intention that it will heal the fine lines. After a week of surgery, the upper eyelid stitch will be removed.
The stitch runs from end to end. So, it is just a simple matter to cut the inner end and pull the outer end while applying normal pressure along the eyelid. This is done because the eyelid is not sore or distorted.
During the recovery process, the swelling will subside in the very first week but bruising may persist into the next week. It is possible that you might want a pair of dark glasses during the recovery time.
Eyelid Reduction Surgery Cost
If you are undergoing any elective surgery, then cost is the biggest consideration. The costs for any individual procedures may vary. There are some factors that may make some changes in the cost including the type of surgery, surgeon’s experience and the geographical location of the operational room. Below are the factors:
- Surgical or Hospital facility costs
- Surgeon’s Fee
- Medical Tests
- Anesthesia Fee
- Post-surgery Garments
- Prescriptions For Medication
Asian Eyelid Surgery
Asian eyelid surgery or you can call it double eyelid surgery. Asian or double eyelid surgery is a kind of cosmetic eyelid surgery. It is a surgical procedure selected by patients of Asian descent. Double eyelid surgery needs the skill set of a surgeon that is experienced in the field of eyelid surgery.
This surgical procedure is a delicate procedure that used to involve incredible attention to detail. There are different types of patients and each of them has different desires and the surgeon goes over the complete process of Asian or double eyelid surgery. After then, it formulates the surgical plan that needs to be customized as per each and every patient’s desires.
When it comes to double eyelid surgery or Asian eyelid surgery, it is quite vital to choose the plastic surgeon wisely.
Asian Eyelid Surgery Procedure Techniques
There are two types of Asian eyelid surgery procedure techniques that can be taken into consideration to fix eyelid issue. They are:
- NON-INCISIONAL
Non-incisional procedure generally relies on weaving a fine thread on the eyelid’s undersurface so that one’s eyelids can have a crease at the desired area. This surgical procedure works very well on the patients who are under the age of 25 where the removal of the skin is not required. Also, because they have little fat and thin skin and desire an eyelid crease on the very smaller end of the spectrum.
This surgical procedure also works perfectly if both the eyes are relatively symmetrical and they have little bit ptosis issue. However, the minor ptosis and eyelid asymmetries can be easily corrected, the results of this surgery are less precise than an incision procedure.
The results of this surgery can be seen for approximately 7 years. The best advantages of this non-incision technique are potential reversibility, gives a natural look and its short downtime.
- ANCHOR INCISIONAL EYELID SURGERY
The anchor incisional eyelid surgery gives the most flexibility to shape, size and precision. This surgical technique can correct varying muscle dysfunction, also known as ptosis and degrees of asymmetry. However, apart from surgery, you can also try exercises to get rid of ptosis naturally at home.
The major drawbacks of this surgical process are finding an experienced surgeon and the slightly longer recovery period. Those who do not have any healing issue, and are non-smoker have scarring issue.
Results Of Asian Eyelid Surgery And How Long They Will Last
You will soon see the results, most probably just after 2 to 3 weeks as the swelling starts to go down. However, patients may expect subtle changes for several months as the swelling resolves.
Be very careful that the swelling makes the crease of eyelid appear higher than where it will end up. However, the position of the crease of the eyelid will settle into its desired location when the swelling decreases.
How Much Double Eyelid Surgery Costs?
As an average, double or Asian eyelid surgery costs $3100. It may vary according to the surgeon’s level of experience and sometimes the location also matters.
This surgical procedure is quite different from normal eyelid surgery, so it is quite vital to search for a well-qualified and experienced surgeon.
However, insurance may cover some of the expenses but there should be a limited medical condition that affects your eye vision such as ptosis or drooping eyelids.
Postoperative Instructions To Follow
Follow these postoperative instructions for best recovery from Asian eyelid surgery:
- Keep head of the bed elevated 30 degrees so that it can reduce swelling.
- Apply ice packs in order to reduce swelling.
- Make sure that you apply antibiotic ointment of stitch line two times a day.
- Remove skin stitches in just 4 – 6 days.
Some Possible Complications You May Face After Asian Eyelid Surgery
There are possible complications noticed when people undergo Asian eyelid surgery or double eyelid surgery. Some of the common complications are as follows:
- Exposure keratopathy secondary to lagophthalmos or even you may have dry eyelids.
- Orbital hemorrhage with the possibility of consequent blindness.
- Failure of eyelid crease to form is disappointing
- Asymmetric, mispositioned, indistinct or incomplete eyelid crease
Canthoplasty Surgery
Canthoplasty surgery can tighten loose eyelid skin and also sagging skin on the eyelids. This surgery can also reposition and reshape the lateral canthus. Canthoplasty surgery is quite useful in those people who have had prior complicated lower eyelid surgery which is also known as blepharoplasty with the rounded canthus and unpleasant surgical appearance and retracted lower eyelid.
This surgery also treats lower eyelid laxity where the lower eyelid is floppy. This surgery is a minimally invasive approach for canthoplasty and helps to tighten the lower eyelid that provides better eyelid contour with the hidden eyelid scars which is known as Aesthetic lateral canthoplasty.
This surgical treatment can be combined with the other periocular and eyelid surgeries, if needed, as for example, ptosis surgery, midface lift and brow lift. This surgery is generally done under local anesthesia with or without intravenous sedation. The recovery period of this surgery generally involves 7 to 10 of bruising or swelling.
Why There Is a Need To Undergo Canthoplasty Surgery?
As women age, the skin around the eyes used to lose its elasticity and as a result in an unappealing sagging or drooping of the lower eyelids. These issues are generally caused due to lower eyelid tendon laxity.
This an aging issue which is often coupled with under-eye bags that makes people look sad or tired. It is not just the aging issue that causes the eyelids to droop or sag, some other factors may also include overexposure to the sun without sufficient skin protection. Also, lifestyle choices such as excessive alcohol consumption or smoking. Some other causes may be eye trauma, hereditary conditions or even paralysis.
Also, those patients who require canthoplasty do so in order to correct a previous eye surgery that left them with the lower eyelid complications. This surgical procedure is generally referred to as a revision procedure.
Also, there are some patients who want to undergo canthoplasty surgery to get more almond-shaped appearance.
Canthoplasty Surgery Procedure
As I have already mentioned that canthoplasty surgical procedure corrects the sagging eyelids or drooping eyelids. Canthoplasty surgery is performed at the outer corner of the eye, mainly the canthus, in the section where the lower and the upper eyelids meet. This is medically termed as lateral canthus.
This meeting point of upper and lower eyelid should be positioned just above the medial canthus which is the junction of the upper and the lower eyelids just near the nose. This generally results in a positive upward slant or canthal tilt that creates an eye-shaped just like an almond.
Generally, this surgery is done to correct canthal tilts that are neutral or negative and causes drooping or sagging eyelids which may further cause distress to the patients who don’t like their appearance of the eyelids at all.
This surgical procedure varies between patients but the major intention of this procedure is to cut the lower canthal tendon and after then to tighten skin on upper eyelids and reposition the upper or lower eyelid. So, in order to access this tendon, an incision is made at the eyelid’s outer corner.
After this, the tendon is then pulled into its new position to support the eyelid and is then reattached using the stitches.
Canthoplasty Surgery Post Instructions:
There are some post instructions that have to be followed after you undergo canthoplasty surgery:
- Never wear makeup for 3-5 days
- Do not wear contact lenses for 3-5 days
- Try to avoid excess watching computer or television for 1 week
- Resume regular duties 2 days after the surgery
- Wash your face from 3rd day of surgery
Laser Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery
A laser blepharoplasty eyelid surgery is a special procedure where surgeons use a laser to assist to improve the aesthetics of the periorbital area or in the correction of deformities. I some cases, a laser blepharoplasty eyelid surgery is one for cosmetic reasons.
However, the blepharoplasties are generally deemed medically essentially because of the visual impairment in the person’s peripheral eye site. The results of this surgery generally last long.
Two types of laser eyelid surgery are considered as per the requirement of the patient. They are:
- UPPER LASER BLEPHAROPLASTY
Upper laser blepharoplasty procedure is generally performed to reduce the sagging and heavy upper eyelid’s appearance. Excisions and incisions are generally made with the laser in order to gain access for repositioning or removal of fatty deposits and to remove extra muscle and skin above the eyelid skin.
- LOWER LASER BLEPHAROPLASTY
Lower laser blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure which is done to reduce the bags and puffiness beneath the eyes. The excisions and incisions are generally made with the laser so that it can gain access for repositioning and removal of fatty deposits and extra muscle and skin below the eyes.
What Does The Laser Blepharoplasty Procedure Involve?
In this laser surgery, a patient will feel much comfortable in sedation or twilight sleep or under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the eyeball is protected using a metal plate and the laser makes a cut it the upper eyelids with an intention to remove extra skin on eyelids.
The wound is then sealed with the tissue glue or a few instantly dissolving stitches. After this, the removal of bags under the lower eyelid will take place using a small incision on the lower eyelid’s inside portion.
There is no need for stitches to be done and also there is not even a single scar needed. After this, the laser can be used to tighten skin around the eyes and resurface the lower eyelid skin.
Recovery After Laser Blepharoplasty
During the recovery process of the laser eyelid surgery, there is a little risk of swelling, infection, scarring. Though, patients have reported about less postoperative pain and better function. It is really good to know because pain obviously takes place if you opt for traditional eyelid surgery.
Laser Blepharoplasty Cost
Well, the cost of laser blepharoplasty is estimated to be $3000 to $5000. However, this cost may vary as per the doctor’s fee, location, medical facilities and the operation room. If you have claimed any medical insurance plans then it will rarely cover purely the procedure of cosmetic eyelid surgery.
Reconstructive Eyelid Surgery
Reconstructive eyelid surgery is a kind of surgery that is usually performed to repair defects in the eyelids. Defects that are so common after experiencing a trauma or a tumor is removed. You don’t need complete reconstructive eyelid surgery when there are some most prominent defects that used to extend through the complete length of the eyelid.
Before undergoing reconstructive eyelid surgery, preoperative evaluation includes a detailed medical and ocular history with performing ophthalmologic examination. Possibly, the individuals are treated by the surgeons who perform reconstructive eyelid surgery and ophthalmic plastic surgeons who are specialist in treating eyelid issues and diseases that are related to the eyes. However, it is always recommended that patients should be examined for eye diseases, active dry eyes and thyroid issues as well. These eyelid problems are actually contradictions to the eyelid surgery.
There is a great need to give eyelid margin’s fine examination for chronic blepharitis. Also, this should be tested for the signs of associated systematic disease like eyelid retract and thyroid eye disease.
Who Are Good Candidates To Undergo Reconstructive Eyelid Surgery
People who suffer from the following eyelid issue are the good candidates for reconstructive eyelid surgery:
- Blepharochalasis
- Blepharospasm
- Dermatochalasis
- Entropion
- Ectropion
- Brow Ptosis
Reconstructive Eyelid Surgery Procedure
The surgical procedure of the reconstructive eyelid surgery is done as surgical therapy. Under this surgical therapy, the eye defects are divided into two major defects; anterior lamellar defects and well as full-thickness defects.
- ANTERIOR LAMELLAR DEFECTS
Partial-thickness defects smaller than 5 mm heal very well by secondary intention. This defect involves less than half of the upper eyelid width that can be closed with a variety of local flaps.
The closure is much easier in older people with skin redundancy. The flaps are raised as skin-muscle composites. However, the incisions are placed along the eyelid’s natural crease. Those patients who have superficial defects are required to remove the orbicularis fibers from the eyelid defects’ s base prior to the flap rotation.
The muscle layer is closed separately with 6-0 or 7-0 absorbable sutures and the skin is closed with 6-0 or 7-0 monofilament or 6-0 fast-absorbing catgut sutures.
Though, if the excess tension causes lagophthalmos, other tissue like skin graft must be brought I for reconstruction procedure. Defects that involve more than 50% of the eyelid, full-thickness skin grafting usually represents the best reconstructive option. Never remove the remaining orbicularis from the defect’s base while performing the skin grafts.
- FULL-THICKNESS DEFECTS
The upper eyelid’s full-thickness defects must be reconstructed in layers to allow normal function. Those defects that involve up to 25% of the eyelid width can be closed primarily. The full-thickness defects can be further divided into the following treatment procedure:
Tenzel Flap: The upper eyelid’s larger defects comprise up to two-thirds of the eyelid width that can be closed with Tenzel flap. During this procedure, the extra skin is rotated from the lateral orbit and the defect is closed as described in the primary closure.
The flap begins from the lateral canthus and it extends as a semicircle inferiorly to a diameter of about 2 cm. There, the skin is incised down to the orbital rim’s periosteum. The lateral canthal tendon’s upper limb is cut to facilitate flap rotation.
After this, a burrow triangle is removed from the very corner of the eye defect to create a pentagonal flap rotation. After releasing upper lateral canthal tendon and prior to closing the defect, it must be converted into a pentagonal shape with the removal of a triangular wedge at the top. This allows the defect closure without a large dog-ear deformity.
Cutler-Beard Flap: Defects involving more than 50% of the upper eyelid closed with an inferiorly based skin-conjunctival flap, like similar to the lip switch technology used for lip reconstruction.
The lower eyelid’s skin is incised horizontally below the inferior corner of the tarsus. You need to make a full-thickness incision via the eyelid retractor, skin and the conjunctiva. The incision’s vertical length depends on the vertical upper eyelid defect’s dimension and it can be extended as far as the conjunctival fornix.
The defect involving more than 50% of the upper eyelid can be closed with an inferiorly based skin-conjunctival flap.
Primary Repair: In primary repair, the tarsal edges are prepared firstly by simply forming vertically oriented ends that approximate directly. An eyelid skin’s burrow triangle is excised just above the tarsal edges and so it forms a pentagonal defect. The eyelid is then repaired in layers by approximating the tarsal edges first at the eyelid margin.
The preferred stitches are 6-0 silk stitches because monofilament permanent stitches are not as soft and it can cause conjunctival irritation. After this, the tarsus is then reapproximated using 6-0 polyglactic stitches.
Final Verdict
Eyelid surgery is generally done to fix several eyelid issues. There are different types of eyelid surgery that can be taken into consideration when you have any eyelid issue. So, here I have mentioned some most effective types of eyelid surgery that can be done to correct drooping eyelids, ptosis, sagging eyelids, baggy eyelids and more.
Every eyelid surgery has its own importance, procedure, cost, benefits, recovery time and more. So, it’s better to know everything about eyelid surgery types including its general information, procedure, recovery after eyelid surgery, cost and more.
However, if you want to fix eyelids issues and want to lift eyelids instantly then you can also try Eye Secrets Eyelids Lift. The strips included in this eyelids lift product will help you lift eyelids instantly and fix other eyelid issues like droopy eyelids, sagging eyelids, ptosis, hooded eyelids and more.
