By: Edwin Paul Magallona, MD

A blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is commonly a cosmetic and aesthetic surgery which improves on a person's tired look as a result of excess folds of skin on the upper eyelids, bags around the lower eyelids and drooping eyebrows. Basically the procedure takes out excess skin, fat and muscle. When it is performed with the goal of improving vision, it then becomes reconstructive in nature. As we go through life and accumulate additional years, the effects of gravity, loss of skin elasticity, sun exposure and daily stress all leave their marks.

Realistically, eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty will never stop the aging process, may never take the stress out of your life, or may not even give you that extra energy you need daily. However it may still effectively take years off your looks and "turn back the clock" by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle. For those who have severe physical manifestations to start with, this cosmetic surgery may at least may one look his fair age. The end result is rejuvenation, giving each patient that fresh and bright look.

All patients interested in the procedure will need an informative and meaningful consultation with a certified cosmetic plastic surgeon. The patient is expected to discuss all expectations with regards to looking and feeling better after her blepaharoplasty or eyelid surgery. He should keep in mind though that the desired result is basically reasonable improvement and realistic enhancement and never impossible and unachievable "perfection". Emotional stability and realistic expectation in patients is a must. Having a "new" look from an eyelid surgery never entitles or guarantees a better relationship nor successful job in life. It solely improves appearance and possibly helps boosts self confidence. This is truly what blepharoplasty may just do for you. How you handle the positive physical effects and gains of an eyelid surgery is actually up to you.

Blepharoplasty takes approximately 1-2 hours and can take longer if combined with other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures as a temporal lift, facelift, and browlift. This surgery may be safely done in an outpatient setting or in a hospital basis under local anesthesia with or without light sedation, or even under general anesthesia if combined with other procedures. If sedation and local anesthesia is chosen, this would allow one to be comfortable during surgery while the eyelid skin is completely numb. Most patients are however able to tolerate surgery with just local anesthesia and with just the same results.

The operative technique of a blepharoplasty is most of the time performed first on the upper lid followed by the lower lid. Incisions are made following natural lines and creases which effects maximal concealment. Working through the incision, your cosmetic plastic surgeon separates the skin from underlying fat and muscle. Excess skin and protruding fat is excised.

Wound closures are always meticulously done by your cosmetic plastic surgeon. Though scars are expected and are natural consequences of any incision or surgery, your cosmetic plastic surgeon will try his best to keep them hardly noticeable as possible. After surgery, dressings may be placed over the wound with antibacterial ointment applied. Post blepharoplasty patients are instructed bed rest for at least a day and ordered to avoid any exertions as to cause increase in blood pressure in the facial area for at least a week. Cold compress is applied for a day while stitches are out after usually 5 days. Most patients do return to work after 2-3 weeks.

All operations including cosmetic plastic surgeries have their small share of complications and risks. Bleeding, infection, and healing problems are possible though not so common. Any pain or discomfort may be effectively controlled more often than not by the right over the counter oral medications. It is prudent however to inform your plastic surgeon or any staff member of any bothersome and persistent problems. Swelling and bruising/ skin discolorations are common and expected and usually resolve in a week or two. A sense of numbness and tightness is usually present which eventually improves and subsides.

For the potential plastic surgery patient in general, it is strongly advised to consult with a plastic surgeon. Patients are strongly encouraged to ask around and be properly and thoroughly informed regarding the they desire whether it be cosmetic or reconstructive in nature. Your certified cosmetic plastic surgeon will display adequate knowledge, skill and care prior, during and after surgery.

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Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona is a Board certified Plastic Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Metro Manila, Philippines.

For more information on Philippine Cosmetic Plastic Surgery..visit or contact +639175006695/ (+632)5315692, 5315012