Medical practices and procedures are some of the fast-growing aspects of the contemporary world, with the advancement of already exciting techniques being made each day. New practices are also coming up and gaining appreciation in the medical field. Today, we have not only medical surgery but also cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgery helps in redefining appearance and giving patients new looks. It is one of the most popular practices today, and medical facilities worldwide are adjusting to cater for these new needs. Avané clinic, Nairobi, is not being left behind. As a hub for medical and cosmetic treatments, we are committed to offering life-changing procedures that make lives better. Avané clinic offers blepharoplasty, a surgical procedure done to redefine facial features, especially the eyelids.
Blepharoplasty is a procedure done to improve the appearance of the eyelids. It is usually done to improve hooding on the upper eyelids and reduce bagginess from the lower eyelid. Blepharoplasty is also called eye lift and is performed for the treatment of droopy eyelids. In most cases, this procedure is done for cosmetic reasons. However, it can also be done to improve vision for people whose eyelids affect their vision. This treatment procedure is done by removal of excess skin, muscles or fat from the eyelid, through surgical means. It may also involve repositioning rather than removal.
Moreover, this technique can be used to remove dark circles under the eyes. This is attained through the repositioning of fats. On the other hand, the removal of fats cannot eliminate dark circles nor removes crow’s feet. Blepharoplasty is a crucial procedure and should be done by a professional plastic surgeon. This is because the procedure is performed on a sensitive part of the skin. A slight mistake during the procedure could have grievous effects on the patient. This is why the surgeon should be competent and well-trained. At Avané clinic, we promise to deliver just that. Competent, well-trained and experienced team of specialists attending to your needs in the best way possible.
The major cause of the need for blepharoplasty is saggy eyelids. This sagging is mostly attributed to age and other factors such as skin trauma or side effects of failed surgeries. As skin ages, it gradually loses its elasticity. Lack of elasticity and the constant pull from gravity causes excess skin to collect on the upper and lower eyelids. Excess skin on the lower eyelid causes wrinkles and bulges. On the upper eyelids, an extra fold of skin can hang over the eyelashes and get in the way of sight. The fat that cushions the eyeball from the skull can also cause bulges in the upper and lower eyelids. The thin membrane that holds the fat in place weakens with age, letting the fat come forward into the lids.
I’m I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
The best candidates for an eye lift are people who are in good health and who have a realistic idea of what they want. They should also have no other eye condition. Most are 30 years or older. Nonetheless, if baggy or droopy eyelids run in your family, you may decide to have the surgery done sooner. If you feel that you need this procedure, we advise that you visit our clinic at the Yaya centre and consult with our specialists. The doctor will enquire about your medical history. The patient should tell the doctor about past conditions. Eye diseases such as glaucoma or detached retina are a subject of interest. Other conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are also important mentions. They will help define whether or not you are suited for the procedure.
Preparing for the surgery.
During the consultation, the doctor will inform you of the care and precautions needed before and after the operation. You are expected to take a leave from work, and limit your activities for a few days after the procedure. This is to allow you time off as the eyelids heal. In some conditions, the patient experiences dry eyes, but temporarily. This last for about 1 or 2 weeks after surgery. In case it should last for more than two weeks, please contact the doctor. Patients are advised to be equipped with ice cubes, gauze pads, eye drops or artificial tears, clean washed clothes or towels and painkillers. These are meant for the patient to take care of the healing eyelids. Medications such as aspirin, Motrin ad Advil are not recommended for use. This is because they increase the risk of bleeding.
The Procedure.
An eyelift usually takes about 2 hours if both upper and lower eyelids are done together. Your doctor will use local anaesthesia with oral sedation. If you’re having all four eyelids done, the surgeon will work on the upper lids first. The surgeon cuts along the natural lines of your eyelids. Through these cuts, the surgeon separates the skin from the underlying tissue and removes the excess fat, skin and muscle. Next, the surgeon will close those cuts with very small stitches. The stitches in the upper lids will stay for 3-6 days. The lower lids may or may not require stitches, depending on the technique used.
Surgery on the lower eyelids may be done using one of several techniques. In one method, your surgeon cuts your lower eyelid to remove fat. That cut won’t be visible. Your surgeon can then soften fine lines in the skin using a C02 or erbium laser. Another method involves cutting the eyelash margin. Through that cut, your surgeon can remove excess skin, loose muscle, and fat. The cut line fades after a short time. After either of these procedures, your surgeon may recommend laser resurfacing. These laser treatments are offered at our clinic and the doctor devices the best method for you.
After the surgery and recovery.
After the operation, the doctor will most likely put ointment in your eyes to keep them moist. He then covers them with a soft compress. You will be moved to the recovery room where you will be observed for any complications. When the doctors are satisfied that you are okay, you will be released to go home. We recommend that the patient comes with someone to take care of them and drive them home. The recovery period can last for up to 2 weeks. During this time, we advise our clients to take lots of rest and avoid too many activities. The patient needs to place ice packs in their eyes. They also need to sleep with their head raised for the first night after surgery. One is expected to remain with the stitches for about 1 week. It is normal to have bruising and swelling, but the yes will go back to normal in about two weeks.
Complications
The patient may exhibit blurry vision and sensitivity to light. Pain is also common but the doctor manages this through the use of ibuprofen. One may also experience dry eyes for a few days but this is normal. Other rare side effects may occur. These include bleeding, infections and abnormal colouring of the eyes. Unusual folding of the eyelids, failure to close the eyes completely and a pulled-down lower lid lash line are common. In very rare cases, the patient may have a possible loss of vision. Should one experience any of these, we advise them to contact the doctors immediately. Our doctors are at your beck and call, and they will gladly and readily help you with these.
Benefits.
Blepharoplasty helps reduce under-eye bags which are responsible for making a person look old, fatigued and unhealthy. It is also used to expand the line of sight, which improves vision for some people. Moreover, blepharoplasty enhances eye shape and brings a refreshed appearance. It also reduces skin irritation caused by the excess fold rubbing together. The procedure can also be used to remove dark spots under the eye circles. Blepharoplasty also helps in the improvement of lower eyelid hollowing. It also helps bring about fewer fine lines on the outer corners and lower eyelids. The technique also aids in reducing forehead discomfort from muscle straining. The straining may be caused by the lifting of sagging skin in the eyelids.
Takeaway Note.
Blepharoplasty is not only a procedure meant to improve facial appearance, but also one that can help improve vision. It can also help avoid other facial defects such as forehead creases, dark circles and bags under the eyes. A procedure like this requires to be done by a professional, lest one risks dire consequences. Avané clinic has a team of experts led by Dr Pancholi who have dedicated their whole lives to improving yours. They have years of experience and tons of knowledge of this procedure. We also offer the procedure at an affordable and friendly cost. Visit our clinic today at the Yaya centre in Nairobi and consult with our doctors about blepharoplasty or other services. You could also contact us and book an appointment any day. Avané clinic lifts your eyes and elevates your life through blepharoplasty operation.
