When we ask how long does blepharoplasty surgery take, we should think about not only the time-frame for the actual surgery, but also the recovery process. Many eyelid surgeons agree that a normal procedure takes somewhere in the area of 1 – 3 hours to complete. depending on the specific procedure. However, the speed of the surgical procedure isn’t the only consideration when choosing a surgeon.
The aspect that’s most important is doing careful work and not having such a crowded surgical schedule that care is compromised. This is an aspect of the selection process all patients should think through when choosing a blepharoplasty surgeon. It’s far better to find a surgeon who concentrates on quality work and not on the clock and the next procedure on the schedule.
When choosing a surgeon, patients need to find one that doesn’t think eyelid surgery is simply a matter of cutting out fat and skin. Some doctors are excellent overall cosmetic surgeons but not experts in eyelid surgery. Tiny details are important to consider. An example is when it must be determined whether to remove only the skin or the underlying muscle and the skin when performing a skin incision. If a surgeon doesn’t understand the difference, then the ability for the eyelids to blink may be compromised if there is any unnecessary removal of underlying muscle.
Another example is understanding exactly how much fat removal is appropriate when conducting the surgery. If an anchor blepharoplasty procedure is needed, then the operating surgeon must have an understanding of what causes upper eyelid tendon slippage. The tendon needs to be tightened during this process. This means the eyelid platform must be supported and so the surgeon needs to understand how to reconnect the eyelid platform to the tendon. While it’s important to understand how long a blepharoplasty surgery takes, it’s also vital to ensure that the surgeon isn’t compromising quality in order to speed up the process.
Aftercare Time Period
It’s common for the eyelids to feel tightened and for some pain to be present when surgery is complete. Analgesics are used to help lessen pain. The incision areas should be treated through the use of ointment. Cold compresses are effective in alleviating any swelling when placed directly on the eye area. Eye drops help when the eyes become dry.
Although the eyes may become dry on their own after surgery, there are certain activities that cause dryness. These activities should be avoided at first and include wearing contacts, reading, getting on the computer and watching TV. Keeping the head raised over the first 2-3 days lessens swelling and bruising. Toward the end of the first week is when the surgeon normally removes stitches.
The wind and sun may cause irritation to the eyes when the patient needs to go outside. Using dark sunglasses helps avoid this irritation. Regular naps help in the case that the patient feels a tiring of the eyes.
Length of the Recovery Period
Healing generally takes a 2-3 weeks. Within 2 to 7 days, removal of stitches occurs. Over the course of week one, patients should be sure to rest the eyes. Any swelling or discoloration seen after the blepharoplasty procedure will lessen as time goes on.
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