Published by Dr MIguel Fernadez Calderón: 25/06/2024
Eyelid surgery may seem simple, but in reality it requires a lot of precision and experience of the surgeon, to guarantee the patient the expected result and not a blepharoplasty gone wrong. In addition, if we do not follow the preparatory steps before surgery, this can lead to postoperative problems both aesthetic and functional. Read on, we explain the consequences and how to solve any problems in this procedure.
What is blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery?
Blepharoplasty is cosmetic surgery in which excess skin is removed from the eyelids. This procedure is performed to remove the fat that accumulates under the eyes and the skin that falls from the eyelids due to aging.
Purposes and benefits of Blepharoplasty
The purpose of eyelid surgery is to give a rejuvenated and rested appearance to the eyes by removing excess skin in the eyebrows and drooping upper eyelids and bags that appear under the eyes.
There are other benefits of a blepharoplasty, such as the elimination of dark circles under the eyes; improvement of the visual field, in those who sagging skin falls on the upper eyelid. In addition, it is a treatment that offers permanent aesthetic results, in a short recovery time.
Causes of a poorly performed blepharoplasty
Common factors leading to Blepharoplasty mistakes
The main factor to consider that can affect eyelid surgery is the surgeon's experience and skills. The doctor must know where to make the incisions, how much skin or fat to remove, and must be careful with the ocular muscles and nerves.
In addition, the techniques used and proper communication with the patient are essential.
Other reasons may be associated with the patient, if he/she has scarring or blood clotting problems. As well as the consumption of medications such as anticoagulants or aspirin and that is not notified to the surgeon.
Importance of choosing a qualified surgeon
By choosing a qualified surgeon, the chances of complications are greatly reduced. Since an experienced professional will be sure to implement proper techniques and adhere to protocols to perform a safe blepharoplasty.
In addition, a qualified surgeon must perform a complete evaluation of the patient, both physically and in terms of medical history, before entering the operating room.
Consequences of a Blepharoplasty gone wrong
Functional problems
Poorly performed eyelid surgery may result in the patient's inability to close his or her eyes due to the removal of more skin or fat than necessary when attempting to correct the drooping eyelid.
During a poorly performed blepharoplasty, the tear glands may be affected. This causes dry eyes, irritation, burning and problems seeing clearly.
Other vision problems resulting from poorly performed eyelid surgery include obstruction of peripheral vision, and in more serious cases of central vision as well. As well as difficulty in moving the eyes up, down and sideways, because the ocular muscles are affected.
In severe cases, there is a possibility of permanent blindness.
Aesthetic problems
One of the main fears of a patient undergoing blepharoplasty is that the result will not be symmetrical. In a poorly performed surgery, facial asymmetry becomes a visible problem, giving the face an unsightly appearance, where one eyelid may be higher than the other or shaped differently.
Using the wrong techniques, or the surgeon not having enough expertise, can cause scars to be visible. Or result in an aged or expressionless appearance.
How to tell if a blepharoplasty was not done correctly
Immediate signs and symptoms
If you have had eyelid surgery and you see any of these signs, it is possible that you have had problems and it is not well done.
- Asymmetry in which it is evident that one eyelid is in a different position than the other or that they do not look the same in shape and size.
- Problems closing the eyes, dry eyes or vision problems.
- Scars that are very visible, with irregular or thick shapes.
- Blurred vision or double vision.
- Swelling and bruising at the surgical site that lasts for many days or seems to get worse.
Postoperative evaluation and follow-up
Attending postoperative and follow-up evaluations is essential to ensure a successful recovery. The surgeon can detect problems early that can be corrected before they develop into a serious condition.
Solutions for an unsuccessful blepharoplasty
Non-surgical options
Depending on the severity of the signs of the botched surgery, it is possible to resort to some topical therapies such as dermal fillers, botulinum toxin or laser treatments to correct some imperfections.
Postoperative care is also essential for proper healing, as well as waiting for adequate time to apply makeup after blepharoplasty.
In cases of dry eyes, gentle massage around the eyes can improve lubrication and reduce inflammation. And, in patients in whom the eye muscles have been affected, eye physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles.
Surgical options
A revision blepharoplasty is a procedure or group of procedures aimed at correcting or improving the results of many of the signs of a poorly performed eyelid surgery. To opt for this type of surgery is recommended to wait a reasonable time in which the swelling disappears, the scars have healed and the results are definitive.
Some advanced corrective techniques such as tissue redistribution or scar rectification may be necessary as an adjunct to revision blepharoplasty.
Prevention of poorly performed blepharoplasty
How to choose the right surgeon
A good surgeon should have experience in this type of surgery. In addition, he/she should have a portfolio with photographs of surgeries performed on other patients, where you can verify the results. You can also consult reviews and recommendations from friends or family, or former patients.
Key questions for your surgeon
An initial consultation with the surgeon will allow you to meet her, see the facilities of the clinic where she works; as well as ask questions and explain the risks and benefits that you can get from a blepharoplasty in your particular case.
Key questions:
- How many years of experience have you had performing blepharoplasties?
- Which techniques do you use? And which one would you use in your case and why?
- How long does the surgery take and how long will the recovery be?
- What are the results I can expect from the surgery?
Conclusion
Undergoing blepharoplasty, as a stand-alone procedure or as a complement to a facelift, can bring a lot of satisfaction to the patient when the expected results are obtained; however, when complications occur and the face loses its symmetry or vision problems occur, it can be very frustrating for the patient.
Although after a blepharoplasty gone wrong there are some situations that may have a simpler solution than others, we consider the choice of surgeon essential to ensure successful results and minimize risks.
