To provide our patients with a little more information about cosmetic surgery for the eyes, known as blepharoplasty, before they come and see us at One Hatfield Hospital, we asked Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, Mr Foiz Ahmed, to tell us more about the procedure and what advice he would give to anyone considering an blepharoplasty.
What is a blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is surgery to improve the shape of the eyelids, and can be categorised into upper lid and lower lid procedures. Usually, the idea is to remove excess skin, and sometimes to tighten muscle or remove and re-drape some of the fat in and around the eyelids. This should result in giving a better shape to the eyelids, and often can help the whole face to look fresher and more youthful.
Is there more than one type?
Procedures can be carried out on the lower eyelids, the upper eyelids, or both.
There are a number of ways of doing each of these, and most surgeons will have their own preferred technique which works for them. The variations will each have their advantages and disadvantages and may be better for addressing one particular set of problems more easily than another. For example, if the main concern is excess fat in the lower eyelids (bags under the eyes) then addressing that might be the primary aim, with skin removal less important. It is important to discuss exactly what it is that bothers you and look at the options with your surgeon.
The surgery can sometimes be combined with strategically-placed anti-wrinkle injections (such as Botox), in order to give an enhanced effect, although the injections will need repeating.
What are the common reasons for having this procedure?
The most common reason patients ask for this procedure is to help look a little ‘fresher’. The goal is to look like a well-rested version of yourself, rather than to look like surgery has taken place.
Another very common reason to have surgery (to the upper eyelids especially) is that as we get older, the skin can droop and sag and this can actually interfere with vision, especially peripherally. Removing the excess skin can help with this and most patients are extremely satisfied if this is the reason for having the surgery in the first place.
What is recovery time like?
There is often some bruising around the eyes after this procedure, and it would be sensible to take a week or two off work. You will usually have stitches which have to be removed at around a week. The scars tend to be hidden and heal very well. Facial skin has excellent blood supply and so tends to heal quite quickly, but the overall result may take a few months to show as the swelling goes down.
What advice would you give to anyone considering this procedure?
As with all cosmetic procedures, the decision to undergo surgery should not be taken lightly. You should make sure that the surgeon you see is qualified to do the procedure, and that you have the opportunity to discuss all of your concerns. You should also have a suitable ‘cooling-off’ period to think about the surgery before making a final decision about going ahead.
How can I find out more?
Mr Foiz Ahmed has regular clinics at One Hatfield Hospital.
Call 01707 443 333 to book a consultation with Mr Ahmed at One Hatfield Hospital.
One Hatfield is unique providing diagnostic care and same or next day appointments, and is ideally located for patients in Hatfield, St Albans, Stevenage, Watford, North London and throughout Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
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