Making Informed Decisions
Upper blepharoplasty, or upper eyelid surgery, is a common procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid. This helps improve vision, restore a youthful appearance, or both. While the procedure is generally safe and effective, it's important for patients to be informed about the potential risks and complications. Understanding these helps patients make better decisions and manage expectations throughout the process.
Common Side Effects After Surgery
Some effects are common and temporary. These usually resolve within days to weeks after the procedure:
Swelling
Almost every patient experiences swelling after surgery. Cold compresses and elevation help reduce it.
Bruising
It's normal to see bruising around the eyes for the first few days. This fades gradually.
Dry Eyes
A temporary feeling of dryness or grittiness is common. Lubricating eye drops usually relieve this.
What Our Patients Say
"Dr. Khanna is an absolute expert. I chose to have PIE surgery and cataract surgery with Dr. Khanna. I only trust him! With PIE surgery I no longer need distance or reading glasses. I have never seen better in MY LIFE!"
"The procedure is very fast and painless. Dr. Khanna and his team were amazing. They worked with my budget and were great at explaining the surgery/prescriptions and recovery time."
Tightness
As the skin heals, a pulling or tight sensation may be felt across the eyelid.
Sensitivity to Light
Eyes may feel more sensitive to sunlight or bright indoor light right after surgery.
Rare but Possible Complications
While complications are rare when performed by experienced surgeons like those at Khanna Vision Institute, they can still happen:
Asymmetry
Sometimes, the final position or contour of one eyelid may differ slightly from the other. In some cases, minor adjustments or revision surgery may be necessary.
Scarring
The incisions are placed in the natural eyelid crease, which helps hide scars. Still, some patients may develop thick or raised scars due to individual healing responses.
Infection
Any surgical procedure carries a small risk of infection. Signs include increased redness, warmth, pain, or discharge. Prompt antibiotic treatment usually resolves the problem.
Bleeding or Hematoma
Bleeding under the skin may create a hematoma—a localized blood collection. Large hematomas may require drainage.
Overcorrection or Undercorrection
Removing too much or too little skin can affect both appearance and function. Overcorrection may lead to difficulty closing the eyes, while undercorrection leaves residual drooping.
Dry Eye Syndrome
In rare cases, patients may develop ongoing dryness or irritation if the eyelids don't close properly. Lubricants and follow-up care help manage this.
Vision Changes
Temporary blurry vision may occur due to ointments or swelling. Permanent vision loss is extremely rare but has been reported in a very small number of cases.
Eyelid Malposition
Improper healing may cause the eyelid to turn inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion), which could require surgical correction.
Difficulty Closing Eyes
If too much tissue is removed, patients may struggle to fully close their eyes. This can dry the eyes out and require additional procedures to correct.
Allergic Reactions
Some patients may have allergic responses to anesthesia, ointments, or adhesives used during the healing process.
Minimizing Risks
At Khanna Vision Institute, we take a thorough medical history and assess your anatomy to minimize complications. Our surgeons follow sterile techniques, use precise surgical tools, and provide detailed aftercare instructions.
What You Can Do as a Patient
Here's how patients can reduce their risk of complications:
Being proactive and informed makes a major difference in surgical outcomes.
When to Call Your Surgeon
After surgery, it's important to contact your surgeon if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Excessive bleeding
- Vision loss
- High fever
- Pus or unusual discharge
Prompt communication ensures early intervention if something goes wrong.
Final Thoughts
Upper eyelid surgery is a safe and reliable procedure that offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. Still, no surgery is risk-free. Knowing the potential side effects and complications helps patients approach the procedure with realistic expectations. At Khanna Vision Institute, we believe in educating patients every step of the way and customizing care to reduce complications and support a smooth recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Risks
Ready to Discuss Your Options?
Understanding the risks helps you make informed decisions. At Khanna Vision Institute, we provide comprehensive consultations to address all your concerns and ensure the safest possible procedure.
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