Conjunctival Incision Blepharoplasty

Conjunctival Incision Blepharoplasty is another type of cosmetic procedure used to remove pocket of fat beneath the lower eyelids but not tightening or removing the skin. Incision is made on the inside of the lower eyelid. Excess fat and muscle are removed (no tightening or removing of skin). Incision is closed with self-dissolving sutures or they will heal naturally without sutures.

Duration of the operation:

Conjunctival Blepharoplasty generally takes about one to 2 hours to complete.

Post operative procedure:

After surgery, the physician will lubricate your eyes with ointment to reduce dryness in this area. Your vision may be blurred temporarily from the ointment. The first evening after surgery, you should rest quietly with your head elevated. It will help to apply cold compresses to your eyelids. Your blood pressure should be monitored to avoid bleeding complications that can affect vision. And, although you can be up almost immediately, you should limit your activities.

Recovery period:

In general, bruising and swelling are less than with other types of eyelid surgery, and recovery is rapid. A small amount of residual swelling, however, will persist for some months and resolve very gradually.

Possible risks and complications:

Significant complications from aesthetic eyelid surgery are infrequent. As with any surgical procedure, however, there is always a possibility of infection, or reaction to the anesthesia, bleeding behind the eye, temporary problems with excessive tearing, decreased sensation in the eyelid, dry eyes, prominence or firmness of the scars, blurred vision, asymmetry in healing or scarring, difficulty closing eyes completely; in rare cases. You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your plastic surgeon, both before and after your eyelid surgery. Pre-existing conditions can also put you at risk. They include thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism, insufficient tear production or dryness of the eye, elevated blood pressure or other circulatory disorders, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

Anesthesia use:

Local anesthesia with oral or intravenous sedation

Hospital admission:

It depends on your preferences as well as your surgeon’s. Conjuctival Incision blepharoplasty can be performed on an out patient basis, in the hospital, or in an ambulatory surgical suite.

Preparation before Surgery

• Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation.
• Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process.
• You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period.
• Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.