Blepharoplasty is surgery to reduce excess tissue in the upper or lower eyelids. For some people, this is primarily an aesthetic concern, but for many others, excess eyelid tissue can cause functional problems that affect daily life.
Dr O’Mahony understands how this can impact both appearance and comfort, and she’s here to help you explore your options.
Blepharoplasty is surgery to reduce excess skin or tissue in the upper or lower eyelids.
The procedure can address both aesthetic concerns and functional issues.
For many people, particularly with upper eyelid excess, the extra tissue can cause discomfort from the weight of tissue over the eyelids, a constant feeling of fatigue around the eyes, and in more advanced cases it can actually impede vision.
This procedure may be suitable for you if you have excess skin or volume in your upper or lower eyelids that’s causing aesthetic concerns or functional problems.
To be suitable for surgery, you should be in good general health and not smoking or using other nicotine products. Blood thinning medications and supplements would also need to be stopped around the time of surgery and Dr O’Mahony would liaise with your other specialists to determine the safety of suspending the blood thinners they have prescribed.
Blepharoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic in a hospital setting, usually as day surgery.
The incisions are carefully placed in the natural creases of your eyelids, making them well hidden.
Sutures remain in place for about one week and are removed at a follow-up appointment with Dr O’Mahony.
You’ll typically need about 1 week off work and should avoid driving during this time.
In the second week after surgery, you’ll still have some bruising and swelling, but it’s usually easier to camouflage with makeup if needed. Some swelling may persist beyond 2 weeks.
You’ll need to completely avoid exercise for 10 days, and very vigorous exercise should be avoided for 3 weeks.
Dr O’Mahony will provide you with detailed recovery instructions.
If the excess skin is causing functional problems like impeding vision or creating discomfort from the weight of tissue, blepharoplasty may be considered reconstructive surgery.
In these cases, Medicare and health fund rebates may be available, depending on your policy, though they typically won’t cover the entire cost.
Dr O’Mahony can assess your eligibility after examining you.
Purely cosmetic blepharoplasty (where there are no functional issues) is not covered by health funds or Medicare.
Dr O’Mahony understands that considering eyelid surgery can feel like a significant decision.
She maintains a welcoming, caring atmosphere and will take the time to ensure you feel completely informed and comfortable about all aspects of the procedure.
