Our Summary

The paper discusses a condition called chemosis, which is a common but usually temporary side effect of eye surgery, particularly lower eyelid surgery. Chemosis happens when fluid leaks into the space beneath the clear, outer covering of the eye. This can be caused by drying, inflammation, and handling of the eye during surgery.

During surgery, the risks can be reduced by limiting the amount of surgery performed and keeping the eye moist. After surgery, the researchers suggest a gradual approach to treatment, starting with lubricants and then moving on to more powerful anti-inflammatory treatments. For cases that don’t improve, they recommend using a compression bandage or potentially more surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is chemosis and when does it occur in relation to blepharoplasty surgery?
  2. What measures can be taken intraoperatively to reduce the risk of chemosis?
  3. What is the proposed postoperative approach to treating chemosis after blepharoplasty surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about blepharoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including using lubricating eye drops as directed to help reduce the risk of developing chemosis (swelling of the conjunctiva) after surgery. It is also important to avoid rubbing or touching the eyes, and to follow up with the doctor if any unusual symptoms occur.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for blepharoplasty include those with excess skin or fat in the upper or lower eyelids, drooping eyelids that impair vision, or bags under the eyes that make a person appear tired or older. Additionally, patients with ptosis (drooping of the eyelid) or dermatochalasis (excess skin) may benefit from blepharoplasty surgery. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and be in good overall health before undergoing blepharoplasty.

Timeline

Before blepharoplasty:

  1. Consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations of the surgery.
  2. Pre-operative evaluation to assess candidacy for surgery and any potential risks.
  3. Pre-operative instructions such as avoiding certain medications, fasting before surgery, and arranging for someone to drive the patient home.

After blepharoplasty:

  1. Immediate post-operative period involves rest and recovery at the surgical facility.
  2. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and remove any stitches or bandages.
  4. Gradual reduction of swelling and bruising over the following weeks.
  5. Final results of the surgery may not be fully visible until several months after the procedure.
  6. Patients may experience improved self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with blepharoplasty surgery, including the risk of developing chemosis?
  2. How common is chemosis as a complication of blepharoplasty surgery, and what factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing this complication?
  3. What steps will be taken during the surgery to minimize the risk of developing chemosis?
  4. What postoperative care measures will be recommended to help prevent or address chemosis?
  5. If chemosis does occur after the surgery, what treatment options are available and how effective are they in resolving the issue?
  6. How long does it typically take for chemosis to resolve on its own, and when should I seek further medical attention if it persists?
  7. Are there any specific precautions or lifestyle changes I should follow to reduce the risk of developing chemosis before or after the surgery?
  8. Can you provide me with information about your experience and success rate in managing chemosis as a complication of blepharoplasty surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options or modifications to the surgical technique that may reduce the risk of developing chemosis in my case?
  10. What is the overall recovery process like after blepharoplasty surgery, and how can I best support the healing of my eyelids and surrounding tissues to minimize the risk of complications like chemosis?

Reference

Authors: Ní Dhubhghaill S, Faris C. Journal: Facial Plast Surg. 2023 Feb;39(1):53-56. doi: 10.1055/a-1967-6050. Epub 2022 Oct 25. PMID: 36283416