Eyelid ptosis surgery (eyelid lift surgery, eye lift)
- What is it?
Ptosis surgery is surgery on the upper eyelid to correct an eyelid that is too low, obscuring vision or just looking too low. It may also address loose skin in the eyelids or include a brow lift.
- Is Mr Callan experienced at this procedure?
This is an important question to ask. Not only is Mr Callan experienced at ptosis surgery, but he performs it regularly and keeps up to date with the latest techniques. It is also important to know that as a fully trained plastic surgeon Mr Callan performs this procedure to the high standards of Australian Plastic Surgery.
- Can I see photographs?
You can see photographs in our office when you have a consultation. As Mr Callan performs ptosis surgery procedure frequently, there are large numbers of photographs to look at many of which will be of patients with a problem similar to yours. We do not publish photographs on the web for a number of reasons, but the most important of these is that you need realistic photographs for the particular type of eyelid surgery you will need.
- Who has a blepharoplasty?
Men, women and occasionally children with an upper eyelid that is hanging too low. While often only one side is affected, in older people both sides may be affected.
- Am I suitable?
You need to be sensible, honest about your reasons, happy with your informed decision, and be as healthy as possible. You should have normal vision (apart from needing glasses) and have no other problems with your eyes. The reason for your droopy eyelid must be one that has a surgical cure, and not due to a medical condition. Mr Callan can usually assess this but you may also need to see an ophthalmologist.
- What would stop me from having the surgery?
You should not be smoking, under stress when making your decision, or have a medical condition that would make surgery unsafe.
- How is it done?
Ptosis surgery is done in a fully accredited hospital. The type of surgery depends on your specific form of ptosis. The commonest form requires repair or tightening of the eyelid opening mechanism through an incision in the upper eyelid. Occasionally some skin is removed and the upper eyelid fold recreated.
- What are the benefits?
This is entirely a personal matter, but if your eyelids interfere with vision or look asymmetric then surgery may help a lot.
- What are the risks?
All surgery carries some element of risk. You can minimize your risk by being as healthy as possible and as psychologically prepared as possible, by selecting an experienced and qualified surgeon, and giving yourself a stress free time during which to recover. Despite this there are some risks that you will need to discuss. The most common of these is some residual mild asymmetry after surgery, which can usually be corrected within a few days with a minor adjustment. There are other risks common to all surgery, and you should be aware of these.
- Are there scars?
The incisions for the surgery are always present, but fade over the first six to twelve months. As a rule the incision lines are inconspicuous unless specifically searched for, and seem to fall naturally into the fold for the upper eyelid.
- How long am I in hospital for?
Usually after eyelid surgery you can go home the same day. While not particularly painful, some people are uncomfortable the first night. You will be given plenty of medication if it is required to keep you comfortable.
- How long will I need to recover?
This varies but usually ranges from one to two weeks. You must not drive until you are fully recovered from both the anaesthetic and the discomfort of surgery so as you are fully capable. If in doubt, don't.
- Do I need anything else after surgery?
- No. It may help to use gentle cool compresses for the first few hours, and some eye lubricating ointment may be required while your eyelid gets used to its new position.
- Will I need to be seen after surgery?
- Yes. We will keep in close contact with you by telephone for the first few days and then will see you about five days after surgery, then at three weeks, then at three months. You are of course welcome to call or visit anytime with any concerns.
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