Naturally, every patient wants an ideal outcome from plastic surgery, but unfortunately, this is not always possible. There are many factors that go into a successful plastic surgery, and while most of these are controllable, others are more unpredictable, and it is impossible to guarantee that there will not be problems associated with the surgery. Blepharoplasty, known commonly as eyelid surgery, is a popular anti-aging procedure that can produce excellent result for most patients. However, every prospective patient needs to be aware of the possible risks and complications associated with the procedure, however slight. Here are some of the known complications involved with blepharoplasty, as well as a few strategies for avoiding them.
Possible Complications
Double Vision and Blurriness
Vision is likely to be affected on a temporary basis after surgery, with some blurriness and vision impediment during the recovery process. However, more serious problems like lasting double vision and loss of sight are very rare and should not be a concern for a healthy patient seeking blepharoplasty.
Inability to Close Eyes Fully
When too much skin is removed from the eyelids, it is possible for a patient to be unable to close his or her eyelids properly after surgery. A cautious approach can avoid this complication, and it is a fairly rare issue, in the hands of a skilled surgeon. However, this problem may occur on a temporary basis during recovery, and patients should wait until they have healed to consider revision surgery.
Eyelid Numbness
A common phenomenon in many plastic surgeries, patients often experience temporary numbness in the eyelids after blepharoplasty, due to the nerve manipulation involved with the procedure. This numbness can last for several months, and in rare cases, can be permanent.
Poor Eyelid Position
Asymmetry and other eyelid positioning problems are aesthetic issues, and not something any eyelid surgery patient wants to deal with. Poor eyelid position can usually be corrected with a touch-up or revision procedure. Depending on the reasons for the asymmetry, patients may want to seek help from a different surgeon. Any revision procedure should be attempted only after the full healing period has elapsed and the eyelids have been given the opportunity to correct themselves—usually at least 6 months after primary surgery.
Poor Healing/Infection
As with all surgery, blepharoplasty does carry some risk for poor healing and/or infection. Poor healing can result in an unsatisfactory result, and possibly revision surgery. Infection is rare, but can be highly dangerous, and patients who notice signs such as a high fever, tenderness, discharge, and redness in the area. These symptoms should not be confused for normal side effects of swelling and bruising, however.
Factors in Success
There are many different factors in play when it comes to the overall success of a surgical blepharoplasty procedure. These factors include:
- Individual features
- Overall health
- Pre and post-operative care
- Lifestyle and habits
- Age
- Skin quality
Fortunately, many of these factors can be controlled by choosing a knowledgeable doctor who can properly assess your candidacy and decide whether or not the procedure is likely to be successful in your situation.
Complication Prevention
To set yourself up for success, you should be as ready as you can be to prevent and deal with complications, should it become necessary. As a patient, there are a few things you can do to maximize your chances for successonce you’ve scheduled the surgery. First, be sure to stick to your doctor’s pre and post-operative restrictions on certain medications, supplements, cigarettes, and alcohol. Neglecting these instructions can lead to serious and dangerous complications, and it is vital that patients are committed to the preparation and healing process. Preparing your home for recovery can help make the process less stressful and ensure you have everything on hand that you’ll need. Be vigilant and keep an eye out for complications, so you can discuss these with your doctor and get medical attention if you need it.
The Most Important Factor
While there are many factors impacting the success of any blepharoplasty, the single most important factor is the surgeon performing the procedure. Most of the complications discussed above can be avoided simply by choosing the best surgeon for you. An experienced surgeon will be able to anticipate and avoid many problems, and will know what to do to produce the best aesthetic results. You should only meet with board certified facial plastic surgeon with excellent safety records and consistently good outcomes.
Be sure to research prospective surgeons carefully, and never settle for a provider you are not completely comfortable with. You have to be able to put an enormous amount of trust in your surgeon, and you don’t want to risk a poor outcome by rushing into a decision.
If you are looking for a reputable facial plastic surgeon in the Austin area, come to Buckingham Center and meet with acclaimed, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Edward Buckingham. Dr. Buckingham offers patients beautiful, natural results, and is ready to help you meet your plastic surgery goals. To schedule your consultation, call 512-401-2500 today.