Correct
drooping upper eyelids and puffy bags
below the eyes by removing excess fat,
skin, and muscle. (Upper-eyelid surgery
may be covered by insurance if used to
correct visual field defects)
Length:
1
to 3 hours.
Anesthesia:
Usually
locally with sedation or general.
In/Outpatient:
Usually
outpatient.
Side
Effects:
Temporary
discomfort, tightness of lids, swelling,
bruising. Temporary dryness, burning,
itching of eyes. Excessive tearing, sensitivity
to light for first few weeks.
Risks:
Temporary
blurred or double vision. Infection, bleeding.
Swelling at the corners of the eyelids.
Dry eyes. Formation of whiteheads. Slight
asymmetry in healing or scarring. Difficulty
in closing eyes completely (rarely permanent).
Pulling down of the lower lids (may require
further surgery). Blindness (extremely
rare).
Recovery:
Reading:
2 or 3 days. Back to work: 7 to 10 days.
Contact lenses: two weeks or more. Strenuous
activities, alcohol: about 3 weeks. Bruising
and swelling gone: several weeks.
