BLEPHAROPLASTY

The condition

Aging and loss of elasticity of the skin of the upper and lower eyelids, laxity of the periocular supporting tissues may be associated with prominent wrinkling and swelling around the eye, that may result in esthetic and psychological complaints. In more severe cases the drooping skin of eyelids may even obstruct vision. The goal of surgery is more youthful and pleasant appearance, esthetic and functional restoration.

Treatment options

The solution in the above cases is the surgical reconstruction of periocular tissues close to their original condition. At the lower eyelid if necessary removal of the excess fat tissue, at the upper eyelid excision of the loose, drooping excess skin. All this has to be accomplished without leaving a hint that the procedure had occured. Therefore the lines of incision are hidden in the wrinkles. The patient needs to openly discuss his or her expectations with the surgeon, however one has to keep in mind that the outcome to be expected is improvement of shape contour and function and not achievement of a perfect condition. Surgery will improve your appearance and make you self-confident, and in cases of vision problems resolves them as well.

One day surgery

"One day surgery" means, that patients can leave the outpatient center on their own feet, accompanied by an escort, within 24 hours of surgery (usually after few hours of observation), and continue the healing process in the familiar confines of their own home. "One day surgery" requires strict professional, social, and various other preconditions that are discussed at the stage of the consultation when the need for surgery becomes clear. (i.e. good general health, absence of serious systemic disease, patient must take responsibility for arrangement of transportation and home care, must have phone to contact the clinic or the surgeon if necessary, etc).

Preparation for surgery

The patient is evaluated by the plastic surgeon prior to the procedure. After the exam the surgeon discusses options with the patient that might affect his or her decisions with regard to the surgery (the desired decrease in size or changes in shape). Then we inform the patient whether he or she is a candidate for one day surgery. At this point we also discuss one day surgery as a special treatment option, the lab tests and other accessory studies (i.e. ophtalmology) that are necessary, types of surgical anesthesia, possible complications, home care-related issues, phases of healing, in one word, all the information that is necessary for the patient to determine which treatment option to chose.

The procedure

The procedure is usually performed in local anesthesia but it can of course be done under general anesthesia as well. During plastic surgery of the upper eyelid an incision is made in the upper part of the eyelid, hidden in a natural crease, followed by excision of the excess skin marked for removal previously. During plastic surgery of the lower eyelid the incision is made 1-2 mm below the lashes parallel to the line of the eyelid. Reduction of the skin is usually moderate and the accumulated fat has to be removed in most cases. If necessary we also perform fixation of the supporting tissues. Wound closure is done with hidden cosmetic suture. During plastic surgery of the lower eyelid in certain cases removal of fat is possible through the conjunctival aspect of the eyelid leaving no visible scar at all. Plastic surgery of the upper and lower eyelids can be performed during separate sessions or simultaneously. Frequently plastic surgery of eyelids is done simultaneously with surgery for corrections of wrinkles on the face. At the end of the procedure we secure the sutures with bandaids.

Possible complications

No doctor can guarantee a complication-free procedure. Complications may occur despite maximum care. Early complications: postoperative bleeding, inflammation if recognized early are easy to treat. The purpose of the 4-6 hour postoperative observation is recognition of early complications. If at home, after leaving the clinic, you notice the slightest sign of complications you should call your surgeon immediately who will provide treatment for the complication. Late complications: a special and very rare complication of blepharoplasty is partial or in more severe cases full eversion of the lower eyelid, which if persists for a prolonged time may cause unpleasant symptoms (i.e. constant tearing) and can lead to other disorders of the eye. Eye injury during surgery could only be mentioned as a medical curiosity. The former complication can be avoided with correct surgical technique. This procedure like other surgical interventions carries risks, but is very commonly performed in our clinic and our patients always leave satisfied.

Postoperative care

Following surgery the area around the eye may appear bruised and swollen. To prevent swelling of the tissues around the eye and the occasional conjunctivitis that might occur antibiotic eye-drops and icepacks are necessary. Patients are discharged home with an escort after 4-6 hours of observation. In case of general anesthesia the postoperative observation is 16-18 hours. It is helpful to wear sunglasses, and avoid straining of the eyes. Patients should rest at home, keeping the head elevated. A follow-up exam is usually scheduled for the 5th-7th postoperative day. During this visit the sutures are removed. The swelling and hematoma around the eye is usually spontaneously and completely resorbed within 1-2 weeks.

Fees

Charge for examination and consultation: 10.000 HUF > Euro
Lower blepharoplasty with local anesthesia: 180.000 - 240.000 HUF > Euro
Upper blepharoplasty with local anesthesia: 160.000 - 200.000 HUF > Euro
General anesthesia: 80.000 HUF > Euro
One overnight stay: 30.000 HUF > Euro

50% of the total cost has to be paid as a deposit before surgery.
These prices are only representative, the final amount will also depend on the severity of the condition.

Appointments: Monday - Friday, 8 am - 8 pm.
Telephone: + (36 1) 266 7766