Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty is a common type of procedure with young adults
and Asians today. Blepharoplasty for non-Asians is supposed to ease heavy eyelids
and to lower lid puffiness. The typical procedure for Asians is supposed to give
them a more Western look.
Many believe that a Western appearance is more acceptable. Some want to make
their eyes appear more friendly, rather than an "angry and suspicious" look.
Dr Khoo Boo-Chai, a leader in the field, says that many of his female patients
have this operation to increase their chances of marrying well. The procedure
is done by having excess fat, skin, and muscle removed from the eyelids. A patient
should be normal in about two weeks, but longer if bruising and swelling are still
present. Because this type of surgery is around your eye, many of the side effects
relate to sight and vision.
Temporarily blurred and double vision is somewhat common during the first few
days of recovery. Other risks include infection, swelling, asymmetry, scarring,
difficulty closing eyes, and blindness. Blepharoplasty typically lasts for several
years, and some insurance companies may cover the operation if it is necessary
to improve vision.
It is important for a patient to know their surgeon well before the operation.
A patient should ask about questions, such as: what are the risks involved, how
long does the procedure take, what are possible side effects, what type of procedure
will be used, what are the alternatives to that procedure, and how long will the
results from the operation last.
It is important that a patient know exactly what will happen during that surgery.
Doctors typically review with their patient the basics of the procedure. It is
important that a patient feels comfortable with what will happen during the operation.
