Eyelid lift plastic surgery is a relatively minor procedure, which can be performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia.
The risk of complications is minimal as long as the procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon. The patient must be prepared to diligently follow the pre- and post-surgical care instructions to minimize the risk of complications.
Patients should note that eyes are the most sensitive area of the body, and even a minor cosmetic procedure related to the eyes should not be taken lightly. The surgeon will educate them about the potential risks and side effects of blepharoplasty during the initial consultation.
Modern Body Contouring & Laser Center, led by the judicious, terrific, and board certified plastic surgeons Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin, provides eyelid surgery to patients in Northern Virginia, Washington DC, Vienna, McLean, Loudoun, Ashburn, Tysons Corner, Reston, Arlington, Chevy Chase, Richmond, Fredericksburg, and surrounding communities and neighborhoods in this part of the eastern seaboard.
Major Complications
Three types of severe complications may potentially occur during or after eyelid lift plastic surgery. These include ectropian, hematoma and retinal detachment. While these complications are extremely rare, the patient should have clear information about them. Ectropian is a drooping effect that causes the lower lid to become inverted. A revision procedure can be performed to correct this condition.
Hematoma involves the collection of excess fluid in the incision area underneath the skin. This risk can be higher when eyelid surgery is performed along with other procedures such as brow lift, facelift or another facial surgery. The surgeon can place small drain tubes below the skin in the incision areas to remove excess fluid and minimize the risk.
In a rare situation, if the retina gets separated from the outer layers of the eye, a retinal detachment can occur. Holes or tears in the retina can cause this condition. Additional surgery may be performed to treat retinal detachment.
Minor Complications
A few patients may experience one or more of the following minor complications:
- Infection
- Excessive tearing
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Dry eyes
- Burning of the eyes
- Unfavorable scarring
- Appearance of whiteheads after suture removal
- Difficulty in keeping the eyes closed while sleeping
- Blurred or double vision
These complications will often resolve on their own in some time, but the patient may have to receive some treatment if the problem persists or causes significant discomfort. Cutting edge, reliable, and plastic surgeons at MBody receive patients from Northern Virginia, Washington DC, Vienna, McLean, Loudoun, Ashburn, Tysons Corner, Reston, Arlington, Chevy Chase, Richmond, Fredericksburg, and other cities and communities in The Mother of States for eyelid surgery.
Side Effects
Pain, Irritation or Discomfort
The eyelids may feel tight, sore and painful as the anesthesia effect wears off. The surgeon may 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.
Scarring
Scars around the treated sites may appear more pronounced initially, but will fade over time and become inconspicuous to the casual observer.
For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Board Certified Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. Reps Sundin and Dr. Burton Sundin please visit
Serving Northern Virginia, Washington DC, Vienna, McLean, Fairfax, Loudoun County, Ashburn, Tysons Corner, Reston, Arlington, Fredricksburg, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Maryland Richmond, VA and surrounding communities.
