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Risks

By Mayo Clinic staff

As with any surgery, blepharoplasty carries some risks, such as infection or reaction to anesthesia. Other possible risks specific to this surgery include:

  • Temporary numbness of the eyelid skin
  • Dry, irritated eyes
  • Temporary vision changes, such as double vision
  • Impaired eyelid function
  • Scarring
  • A very small risk of blindness due to bleeding behind the eye

Talk to your doctor about how these risks apply to you. Understanding what's involved in blepharoplasty and weighing the benefits and risks can help you decide if this procedure is a good option.

How you prepare Why it's done
References
  1. Kim EJ, et al. Blepharoplasty. In: Lalwani AK. Current Diagnosis & Treatment in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. 2nd ed. New York: McGraw Hill Medical, 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aid=2833075. Accessed June 12, 2009.
  2. Surgery of the eyelids. American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. http://www.aafprs.org/patient/procedures/blepharoplasty.html. Accessed June 12, 2009.
  3. Eyelid surgery for women. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed June 12, 2009.
  4. Trussler AP, et al. MOC-PS CME article: Blepharoplasty. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2008;121:1.

MY00298

July 18, 2009

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