6 Myths About Eyelid Surgery - Blepharoplasty Debunked!

Historically, blepharoplasty was performed only on older people for functional reasons when the upper eyelid weighed down on lashes and impaired vision.

Younger patients now pursue blepharoplasty cosmetically for tarsal show or to achieve a less tired appearance.

Upper eyelid surgery results are visible right away, though sutures are present and settling takes time.

Lower eyelid surgery swelling persists longer because lymphatic drainage in the under-eye area is slower.

Well-done upper and lower eyelid surgery should not result in a significant or perceptible change in appearance; the patient should just look less tired.

If lower eyelid surgery is done too aggressively or incorrectly, the lower lids can be pulled down, resulting in perceptible changes in appearance.

Eyelid surgery is not very painful if the recovery process is managed correctly; patients should notice only swelling as a sensation.

On the first day after upper eyelid surgery, patients feel a paper-cut sensation that resolves with application of ointment.

Icing the eyelid area reduces bruising after surgery.

The acute phase of recovery is the initial six hours; if managed well, subsequent days are much easier and not painful.

Upper eyelid recovery time is one week (six to seven days).

In older individuals, upper eyelid bruising may last two weeks and resembles purple eye shadow.

Lower eyelid bruising lasts approximately ten days.

Lower eyelid swelling in some individuals can last up to six weeks.

Upper eyelid surgery scars are hidden in the natural crease and are imperceptible when healed; most people forget they had the surgery.

If the lower eyelid scar is not placed well, it can pull down and become more visible.

Lower eyelid scars are recognizable to trained observers but most people cannot identify incision sites without instruction, though they may recognize that lower eyelid surgery was performed.