Extra skin on the upper eyelids, upper eyelids that droop or upper eyelids that turn in or out can all be repaired with plastic surgery. Upper eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure that is usually performed by an ophthalmologist but can be done by a plastic surgeon as well. Surgery on the upper eyelids is usually a very safe procedure but as with all surgeries, there are some complications that may occur after the procedure.
Infection
Infection is a potential risk with any surgical procedure. According to the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center website, infection occurs rarely after upper eyelid procedures. Infections of the upper eyelids can present as swelling and pain up to one week after the procedure according to Dr. Frank Fechner. This can be treated with antibiotics and may require surgical drainage of any pockets of infection.
Bleeding
Bleeding during an upper eyelid surgery is usually very minimal; however, there may be some oozing after the procedure which may contribute to a bruised appearance after surgery. In a 2003 article written by Dr. William Mack and colleagues in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery, the most severe complication that involves bleeding is an orbital hemorrhage which is bleeding that occurs behind the eye. This rare complication can lead to vision loss if not managed by the eye surgeon promptly.
Scarring
Any eyelid procedure will leave a small scar where the incision in the skin was located. However, a few patients may develop an overactive scarring response to surgery which may impact the eyelid function and appearance. According to Dr. Fechner, further procedures may be needed to remove the excess scar tissue if it is bothersome.
Lid Asymmetry
During any upper eyelid procedure, the surgeon's goal is to make sure that the eyelids are even and symmetrical after the surgery. Due to abnormalities in healing or too much or injury to eyelid muscles, the eyelids may not line up evenly. As Dr. Fechner notes, if the asymmetry is significant and worrisome, further surgery can correct the problem.
Incomplete Eyelid Closure
In a blepharoplasty procedure which removes excess skin from the upper eyelid, there is a risk of incomplete eyelid closure because of removal of too much skin. This puts the cornea at risk of drying and other damage. On his website, Dr. Fechner states that early after the surgery, these complications can be managed conservatively with lubricating drops and ointments. But if the eyelid position does not improve or the cornea begins to decompensate, reconstructive surgery may be needed.
Eyelid Skin Numbness
According to the Mayo Clinic, after a blepharoplasty, the patient may experience some numbness or loss of sensation of the upper eyelid. All patients may not notice this problem. This tends to be temporary as the eyelid heals. There is nothing that needs to be done for this complication.
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