BLEPHAROPLASTY AND PERIORBITAL REJUVENATION
WHAT IS IT?
Blepharoplasty is the plastic surgery of the eyelids that corrects excess skin and fat (eyelid bags) and sagging. In certain cases, it improves the functional aspect of the area in addition to the aesthetic. Periorbital Rejuvenation is a concept of orbital or periorbital rejuvenation (in the eye area) that has evolved significantly with new endoscopy and laser techniques. These allow for a more youthful appearance, with the positioning of the eyebrow, scar-free eyelids, and significant improvement in wrinkles. "Expression wrinkles," due to the action of the orbicular muscle, are indicated for the application of botulinum toxin (Botox or Dysport), which keeps this area at rest.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Scar
It is located in the eyelid crease of the upper eyelid. Since the skin of the eyelids is very thin, the scar tends to be practically invisible.
Anesthesia
Most cases are operated under local anesthesia, with or without sedation.
Surgical Time
Around one hour.
Age
There is no ideal age. The right time is determined by the presence of the defect to be corrected, and this can occur at any age.
PRE-OPERATIVE
1) Complementary exams to be specified.
2) Photography of the area is important for evaluation, surgical planning, and documentation.
3) Attend the clinic on the agreed day and time, preferably accompanied, especially if the surgery is outpatient.
4) Do not bring jewelry and other valuables to the clinic.
5) Do not paint your nails.
6) Any occurrence such as illnesses (flu, fever, infection) or other reasons that may lead to the suspension of surgery should be reported in advance.
7) Arnica can be used to avoid bruising (bruises). This should be started one week to ten days before surgery. Have an evaluation with the clinician for guidance on important pre-operative medications for healing and body balance, aiming for a better recovery.
CARE:
Fasting for at least 6 hours before the start of surgery.
Medication for hypertension and other diseases should be reported for further guidance.
Do not take medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g., AAS, Rhonal, Buferin, Aspirin) one week before and one week after surgery, as it increases bleeding.
Weight loss medication should be suspended 15 days before surgery.
Do not smoke 15 days before and 15 days after surgery. How about taking the opportunity to quit smoking?
POST-OPERATIVE
Pain
It is usually not significant. Even if there is greater sensitivity or small bursts of pain, these can be perfectly alleviated with the use of common analgesics.
Hospitalization Time
Normally, it is an outpatient procedure.
First Dressings: Cold compresses on the eyelids with saline solution or chamomile tea, constantly for 48 hours.
Bath
Normal.
Food
Free after surgery.
Bruises
The eyelids may become more or less bruised, depending on personal characteristics. Continue with the compresses and ointment or gel can be used to dissipate the bruises.
Edema (swelling)
Varies from patient to patient. Normally, there is swelling in the first 48 hours. Some patients present a quite normal appearance by the fourth or fifth post-surgical day, while others achieve this result after the seventh day.
Secretion
It is normal to have a buildup of secretion in the morning. Clean the eyes with boric water or saline solution several times a day. Do not rub or scratch the eyes.
Removal of Stitches
The removal of stitches is done around five to seven days after surgery. Surgical glue can also be used, eliminating the need for stitch removal.
Physical Efforts
Avoid them in the first week.
Sun
Do not expose yourself to the sun for two months.
We recommend using sunscreen reapplied every three hours (SPF above 30).
Makeup
It is allowed after the seventh day.
Hydration and Drainage
It is important to hydrate the skin and perform eyelid massages to accelerate recovery.
Sensitivity
There may be a small insensible area near the eyelashes, which returns after 1 month.
"WILL THIS DISAPPEAR?"
Every surgery involves its own recovery period. Give it time, as your body will take care of dissipating small disturbances that will inevitably catch someone's attention who will not refrain from observing: "Will this disappear?" Do not hesitate to communicate any concerns. We will provide the necessary clarifications for your peace of mind.
FINAL RESULT
Initially, during the first four post-surgical months, the area appears to be recovering, but over time, there will be a gradual accommodation of organic tissues. During this period, the scar appears more reddish and hardened, but later becomes thinner and paler. From the fourth month, a new photographic session occurs for comparison of pre and post-operative (before and after). This re-evaluation may indicate the need for some touch-up, a procedure considered common in plastic surgery, and should be performed after the 6th month and within a maximum of ten months after surgery.
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