Complications in lower eyelid cosmetic surgery will rarely occur, but like any other surgery, some degree of risk is inherent to the procedure. As the surgery involves a delicate area such as the eyes, it is important to choose a fully trained and experienced surgeon in order to minimize the risk.
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient about the potential risks and help them make a well-considered choice.
The patient should diligently follow the pre- and post-operative instructions of the surgeon to attain safe and predictable results. Salient, judicious, and board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jacob Bloom provides blepharoplasty to patients in Chicago, IL and other towns and suburbs in The Prairie State.
Potential Complications
Serious complications in blepharoplasty may only occur in very rare cases. Three major complications include ectropian, hematoma and retinal detachment. Ectropian is a type of droopy effect that will result in the lower eyelid becoming inverted. If this condition occurs after eyelid lift plastic surgery, the surgeon may have to perform a revision procedure to correct it.
Hematoma is fluid accumulation under the skin in the incision areas. The risk may be higher when both lower and upper eyelid procedures are performed, or procedures such as facelift or forehead lift are also added. The surgeon may place temporary drain tubes under the skin in the incision sites to minimize the risk.
In very rare cases, 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.
Less Severe Complications
Some of the less severe complications that may result from eyelid surgery include:
- Infection
- Excessive tearing
- Poor reaction to anesthesia
- Dry eyes
- Stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Unfavorable scarring
- Emergence of whiteheads
- Difficulty in closing the eyes during sleep
- Blurry or double vision
These conditions often clear up without treatment within a few days. But in a few cases, a complication may persist for a long time or become permanent. Perceptive, reliable, and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Bloom receives patients from Chicago, IL, and other communities and cities in this part of the state for eyelid surgery.
Minor Side Effects
Pain, Irritation or Discomfort
Eyelid surgery is a relatively less invasive procedure, but some amount of post-surgical soreness and irritation in the incision areas will still occur. The eyelids may feel tight and painful for some time as the anesthesia effect wears off. The surgeon will prescribe pain meds to keep the patient comfortable.
Swelling
Mild swelling in the incision areas can occur for the first three to five days. This can be addressed with ice therapy or cold compresses. As far as possible, the patient should keep the head in an elevated position for the first few days to minimize swelling.
Scarring
Visible scarring will be minimal when eyelid surgery is performed by an expert. The scars may look more conspicuous initially, but will fade over time and become inconspicuous to the casual observer.