Eyelid Reduction (Blepharoplasty) Sunshine Coast

Blepharoplasty surgery, also referred to as an eyelid reduction, is a cosmetic surgery that targets the upper and lower eyelids. It involves removing excess skin and fat around the eyelids to reduce tired, puffy eyes whilst improving vision and refreshing the appearance. The procedure often targets upper eyelid sagging or drooping which can cause signs of ageing or vision impairment. Lower eyelid surgery is also an option for patients concerned about the look of under-eye bags, puffiness, or drooping lower eyelids.

Eyelid surgery can vary depending on which area of the eyelids requires altering. If both eyelids require surgery, they can be combined into one procedure. We can combine eyelid reductions with other surgeries such as a facelift or brow lift to enhance the anti-ageing and lifting effects. Dr Fraser-Kirk is an experienced eyelid surgeon on the Sunshine Coast who will discuss which options best suit your health and your expected outcomes.

Eyelid reduction surgery benefits

As we age, the eyes can adopt a droopy, puffy appearance that contributes to a tired or aged appearance. This is often a result of natural collagen loss, leading the skin to become lax and to lose the elasticity it once had. The skin around the eye area is especially prone to signs of ageing, and for some people, the upper eyelid skin can begin to hang and rest on the upper eyelashes. This can cause both cosmetic and functional issues. While some people may be concerned about the look of drooping eyelids, for others, the extra skin can begin to cause vision issues.

Eyelid reduction surgery corrects these issues by removing excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Removing this excess tissue gives the look of a tighter, lifted eye area that looks natural. The procedure can achieve a number of outcomes, such as:

• Lesssagging skin and excess fat deposits
• Reducedfine lines and wrinkles, for smoother skin
• Reduced under-eye bags and drooping
• Improved eyelid function andvision
• A more youthful look

Since each patient may have a different skin condition and goals, we design treatment plans that suit the needs of the patient. This way, patients can achieve a lifted, youthful look that fits their facial features and desired results.

Who is a good candidate for surgery?

Ideal patients for surgery are fit and in good overall health. You will need to speak to Dr Fraser-Kirk who will ask you about any health issues and decide if you are suitable for surgery. Ideal candidates are men or women who:

• Are non-smokers or have quit smoking
• Have realistic ideas about the outcomes of surgery
• Do not have risk factors that could impede their post-op healing

The procedure can benefit people who:

• Are concerned about droopy lower eyelids
• Have excess skin on the upper eyelids
• Wish to reduce bags under the eyes
• Have impaired peripheral vision

Smokers are at an increased risk of healing issues, which means you should quit smoking for several months before surgery. Therefore, If you are healthy and unhappy with your excess eyelid skin, or find that the extra skin impairs your vision, you may be a good candidate. Speaking to Dr Fraser-Kirk will help clarify if surgery is the best option for you, and how best to approach the procedure for your case.

Consultation

Before your surgery, a meeting with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Fraser-Kirk will be required to establish your options. You will be invited to speak about your skin concerns and reasons for seeking eyelid surgery, as well as what you hope to achieve. Dr Fraser-Kirk will assess your skin condition and ask you about your medical history and any past procedures. This will be helpful for creating a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.

Once we have discussed your health, skin condition, and aims, we can begin creating your treatment plan. Dr Fraser-Kirk will outline your options and explain which surgical approach will be best to achieve the look you want. For example, while some patients may wish to reduce the upper eyelid skin, others may wish to focus more on their lower eyelid drooping and puffiness. Your procedure will also be tailored to your natural eye shape and other features to create facial harmony.

You can ask further questions about your surgery so that you have a good idea of what to expect before, during, and in recovery.

Blepharoplasty procedure

Eyelid surgery is a day procedure that we perform under local or general anaesthetic. If patients require surgery on both upper and lower eyelids, Dr Fraser-Kirk will operate on the upper eyelid first. Your anaesthesia will ensure that you do not feel pain and have a comfortable experience.

Upper eyelid surgery
During surgery to reduce the upper eyelids, Dr Fraser-Kirk makes incisions in the natural creases and folds of the eyelids. This placement reduces the appearance of your scars. Through these incisions, he then removes your excess skin, according to your level of skin laxity and desired look. This can also involve altering or reducing fatty deposits in the area. Finally, Dr Fraser-Kirk tightens the muscles to create a firmer, lifted appearance and closes the incisions.

Lower eyelid surgery
Lower eyelid surgery involves making an incision just below the lower lash line in order to tighten the skin and remove under-eye fatty deposits. In some cases, Dr Fraser-Kirk may make an incision inside the lower eyelid to correct and reposition the skin or remove fat deposits. Skin is not removed with this incision. Once he has made the desired changes, Dr Fraser-Kirk will close the incisions with sutures.

You can discuss which method is best for your procedure during your consultation. Eyelid reduction surgery can take between one and a half to two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. The result is a lasting, natural-looking reduction in eyelid skin that gives the eyes a more lifted and youthful appearance.

Recovery

Straight after your surgery, it is normal to have some bruising, swelling, and pain. The bruising and swelling will be the worst the day after. We may prescribe topical ointment and pain medication to help patients recover. Also, you may require a cool compress and gauze over the coming weeks to protect the eyes and soothe any discomfort.

Most patients fully recover roughly two weeks after surgery. General recovery guidance includes:

• Take at least one week off work
• Avoid scratching or rubbing around the surgical site
• Avoid looking at a screen for the first couple of days to give the eyes time to rest
• Wear sunglasses if outside to avoid exposure to irritants such as dust or dirt
• Take prescribed medicine, ointments and eyedrops
• Elevate the head while sleeping for the first few days
• Attend all post-op appointments

It is vital that you follow your post-op recovery plan as prescribed by Dr Fraser-Kirk to ensure proper healing and reduced scarring. Your general health and healing should be a top priority during this time. Dr Fraser-Kirk will ensure he is available to answer any questions you may have or help with any issues that may arise.

Eyelid reduction surgery cost on the Sunshine Coast

The cost of eyelid surgery will vary depending on a variety of factors. Dr Fraser-Kirk will outline these factors during your first meeting, once he has assessed your personal needs and goals for the surgery. When outlining costs, we must consider the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist fees, hospital fees, and post-op care costs. This includes the extent and duration of your surgery.

If vision impairment is the main reason for surgery, it may be worth consulting with an ophthalmologist (eye specialist). This is because you may need a referral to book a consultation. It is also worth noting that some patients may be eligible to be covered by Medicare or their private health insurer if they meet certain criteria.

For any questions about procedure costs, please contact us.

Risks and complications

No matter the procedure, there will always be some risks involved that patients must be aware of. Being aware of the risks will help you make an informed decision about whether this option is best for you. The following are risks associated with eyelid surgery:

• Light sensitivity
• Temporary vision changes
• Itchy and dry eyes
• Infection
• Excessive bleeding
• Anaesthesia reactions
• Poor scarring

Patients who follow their recovery plans will mitigate their potential for risks. This includes reducing scars where possible. At our clinic, we believe patients should have access to their surgeon, which means Dr Fraser-Kirk will be available for any questions or issues that may occur after surgery.

How to choose the best eyelid surgeon on the Sunshine Coast

The decision to undergo any surgery is a very personal one that requires a great deal of research and planning. As a result, it is important to find a qualified surgeon who will guide you through the process and take a personalised approach to eyelid surgery. A good surgeon will give you all the knowledge and advice you need to achieve a positive outcome.

Dr Fraser-Kirk is a highly skilled eyelid surgeon who will take care to tailor the procedure to your needs and preferences. At our Sunshine Coast clinic, we guide patients through their journey, empowering them to reach their goals and improve their confidence.

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