You might be attracted to the idea of getting eyelid surgery because it could approve your appearance. For some people, it can also reduce vision obstructions. Still, you might hesitate to even book a consultation for the procedure because you are concerned that something might go wrong. After all, the eyes are a delicate part of the body! Just how risky is eyelid surgery? This blog post explains what you should know.
Side Effects and Complications
It is important to note that, just like any other medical procedure, eyelid surgery is not completely risk-free. However, the chances of something going seriously wrong are quite low.
As a result of eyelid surgery, a small percentage of patients experience:
- Changes in skin sensation around the eyes
- Bleeding from the incision sites
- Infection
- Lid lag (pulling down of the lower eyelid)
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporary changes in vision
- Unfavorable scarring
- Ectropion (outward rolling of the lower eyelid)
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Pain and discomfort
- Complications from anesthesia
- The need for revision surgery
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
While the above information might sound a bit scary, there are some practical steps that you can take to keep your risk level as low as possible:
- Choose a qualified surgeon. An experienced and trustworthy surgeon will clearly explain the risks involved in your procedure and will be extremely careful during your surgery to prevent adverse outcomes. To find the right doctor, you can read online reviews, request to see before and after photos, and ask for referrals from people you trust. You should also not be afraid to trust your gut. If something feels off, strive to pinpoint why you feel that way.
- Follow post-op instructions. You may need to take certain medications, avoid exposure to sunlight, and follow other directions to minimize the risk of post-op complications.
- Communicate with your medical team. Your surgeon should be well aware of your medical history before approving you for any procedure. After your procedure, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance if you have questions or concerns.
- Care for your overall health. Generally speaking, people with good overall health tend to be lower-risk surgical patients.
Eyelid surgery carries a small degree of risk, but many patients have no regrets about undergoing it. Consider all relevant factors before you determine whether or not this procedure is right for you.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Irvin M. Wiesman is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is proud to serve the Chicago area. Eyelid surgery is among the many services he offers. He always pays great attention to detail and prioritizes patient safety. If you have questions about this procedure and what it involves, he and our team would be pleased to speak with you. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, get in touch with us at 312-981-1290.
