Common Reactions to Eyelid Surgery By Nimit D on March 12, 2013

The eyes are often described as a person’s most prominent facial feature. So it is no wonder that so many patients consider plastic surgery when signs of aging compromise the appearance of the eyes. Eyelid surgey (blepharoplasty), in particular, is a popular procedure for tightening the skin around the eyes and reducing puffiness. This procedure is a great choice for patients because it can be customized to address a patient’s specific areas of concern. Upper eyelid surgery allows Ottawa plastic surgeon Peter Brownrigg to correct “hooded” eyelids or puffiness around the upper eyelids, while lower eyelid surgery is a great option for patients with noticeable bags under the lower eyelids. Of course, before electing to undergo any surgical procedure, a patient should have a thorough understanding of what to expect before, during, and after surgery. A common question our Ottawa patients ask is “What are the common eyelid surgery side effects?” Read on for the answer to that question.

For many of our patients in Ottawa, eyelid surgery is the perfect solution for signs of aging on the eyes; this procedure provides dramatic results and typically only requires seven to ten days of recovery. So what can our patients expect during that recovery as far as side effects? The most likely side effects of eyelid surgery (upper and/or lower) include:

• Swelling and/or bruising
• Excessive tearing or insufficient tearing
• Difficulty closing the eyes, which may lead to difficulty sleeping
• Drooping eyelids
• Blurry vision, or in some cases, double vision
• Dry, itchy eyes

These are some common side effects that are experienced by patients of eyelid surgery, but every patient will react to surgery differently. A patient may experience any number of, or any combination of, these side effects. Dr. Browrigg gives his patients thorough instructions regarding what to do and what not to do following eyelid surgery. Following these instructions will ensure a smooth recovery and should help alleviate some of these symptoms. It is completely normal to experience these side effects and they should not last for more than a week or so. If any of these symptoms have not resolved within two weeks of surgery, or if you have experienced any unusual side effects, inform Dr. Brownrigg as soon as possible.

Additional Procedures

Often times, our patients elect to have eyelid surgery performed alongside additional cosmetic surgeries. In this way, patients are able to enhance the results of eyelid surgery by addressing signs of aging on the entire face. Popular procedures performed along with eyelid surgery include brow lift surgery and facelift surgery. Patients undergoing multiple cosmetic procedures may experience additional side effects following surgery. Dr. Brownrigg will discuss this with patients at the surgical consultation.

Schedule an Appointment

The best way to avoid complications from cosmetic surgery and ensure a minimal amount of surgical side effects is by choosing a talented and experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Peter Brownrigg is just that. Dr. Brownrigg has been focusing exclusively on facial plastic surgery for over 25 years. To learn more about eyelid surgery under the skilled hand of Dr. Brownrigg, schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.

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