Some people have eyelid surgery to remove excess skin that hangs over the eye and prevents a full field of vision. Other people have lid surgery to improve appearance. In both cases, the eye lid surgeon will evaluate the lids, determine the best way to perform the surgery and discuss the desired outcomes as well as possible complications.
Function
During eye lid surgery, the doctor may remove excess skin and tissue from around the eye lids. He may work with the muscles of the lid to ensure proper functioning with the enhancement. However, in some people, the eye lid does not function properly after the surgery. The eye lid, along the eyelash line, may turn outward, causing a condition called ectropion, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This condition may require additional eye lid surgery. In addition, the eye lid may not close completely after the surgery, a possible complication from repairing the eye lid muscle. If the lid does not close completely, the surface of the eye will dry, causing significant irritation and potential damage to the eye. Additional surgery should repair the condition.
Scarring
Eye lid surgeons make incisions in the natural folds of the eye lid in order to hide the surgical site. Once the wound heals, the incision is barely noticeable; however, the scar may be visible particularly in patients with a history of poor wound healing. In rare cases, scarring may alter the natural bend in the eye lid, which may alter the lid's appearance and function. Some patients require additional surgery to remove scar tissue, though the risk is that additional scar tissue may build from the second surgery.
Swelling and Infection
Some swelling after eye lid surgery is a normal effect from the procedure. However, some people may have significant swelling that prevents them from opening the eye completely. Swollen lids that still open will likely press against the eye itself and distort vision. The vision will not improve until the swelling lessens. Swollen lids may result in pain and discomfort, and a cool washcloth placed gently on the closed eye lid may help. Swelling may indicate an infection and should be reported to the eye surgeon for an evaluation.
Bleeding
Most eye lid surgeons use stitches to close the incision, and, on occasion, one or more of the sutures will open and the wound will bleed. The doctor will most likely repair the stitches in the office. An area of bleeding may also appear under the skin, called a hematoma, and this may require additional surgery for removal, states the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
