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Blepharoplasty - series
Blepharoplasty - series


Eyelid lift or blepharophasty

Alternative Names:
Blepharoplasty

Expectations after surgery:

Scars may remain slightly pink for 6 months or more after surgery. They will fade eventually to a thin, nearly invisible white line. The more alert and youthful look usually lasts for years. These results are permanent for many people.



Convalescence:

The patient can usually leave the hospital the day of surgery. The eyes and eyelids will be covered with ointment and a bandage. They may feel tight and sore as the anesthesia wears off, though the discomfort is easily controlled with pain medication. The head should be kept elevated as much as possible for several days and cold packs applied to reduce swelling and bruising. Eyedrops may be recommended to reduce burning or itching of the eyes.

Patients should be able to see well after 2 to 3 days. Contact lenses should NOT be worn for at least 2 weeks and may feel uncomfortable for longer. Keep activities to a minimum for 3 to 5 days, and avoid strenuous activities that raise the blood pressure, including lifting, bending, and rigorous sports for about 3 weeks.

The stitches will be removed 2 to 7 days after surgery. The amount of bruising depends on the amount of surgery done and the person's general health but usually reaches its peak during the first week and lasts from 2 to 4 weeks. The patient may notice increased tears, increased sensitivity to light and wind, and temporary vision changes (such as blurring or double vision) for the first few weeks.




Review Date: 4/11/2005
Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, M.D., M.P.H., Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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