Revisional Eyelid Surgery

Revisional eyelid surgery aims to treat difficulties that result from previous eyelid and face operations, such as blepharoplasty, canthoplasty, brow lift, ptosis surgery, and related treatments, and address cosmetic or functional concerns.

What is revisional eyelid surgery?

Eyelid revision surgery, or revision blepharoplasty, is a follow-up treatment used to improve or manage the after-effects of an initial eyelid surgery. A revision operation could be suggested if a patient is unhappy with the outcome of a previous blepharoplasty. This is especially true if problems like defects or deformities are making you feel uncomfortable.

This secondary surgery is more intricate than the initial procedure. It can be approached in various ways depending on the complexity of the problems encountered. Revision blepharoplasty addresses a spectrum of issues. Common concerns include lower lid retraction, scarring, corner rounding of the eyes, hollowing of the upper or lower eyelids, and lingering bags or bulges.

Who is a good candidate for revisional eyelid surgery?

Opting for revisional eyelid surgery is a personal decision. Careful consultation with a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial for the best outcome.

Revision blepharoplasty is a relatively common request, often made by individuals dissatisfied with the initial results of eyelid surgery. Some patients want a revision blepharoplasty to treat recurrent indications of aging, while others seek it to address concerns with scarring following surgery.

Candidates for revision surgery should preferably be in good general health and follow healthy lifestyle choices, such as not smoking. Clear communication between doctors and patients is essential before surgery. This ensures that both parties are aligned on expectations and have a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes of the procedure.

Why undergo blepharoplasty revision?

Patients often seek eyelid surgery due to dissatisfaction with the position of their eyelids, which can result in several issues:

• Sunken or hollowed-out eyelid appearance: Excessive removal of skin and tissue from the upper eyelid crease can cause a hollowed-out appearance, or the lower eyelids may appear too low, revealing too much of the whites of the eyes (scleral show).
• Droopy or baggy eyelids: Insufficient removal of the upper eyelid skin or excess fat can lead to a low or droopy upper lid (ptosis) and a baggy appearance in the lower eyelids.
• Eyelid asymmetry: When the two eyelids are not symmetrical, differences in size, shape, position, or function can result. Poor positioning may occur when too much skin or fat is removed, leading to an unbalanced and unnatural appearance.
• Poor blinking or inability to close the eye: After an eyelid lift, excessive tissue removal may make it difficult for the eyes to shut correctly, which may lead to poor blinking and even dry eye problems.
• Visible scarring: Patients may seek revision surgery for scar revision due to noticeable scars and bumps around incision areas from previous blepharoplasty or brow lift procedures.
• Loss of initial surgical results: The natural aging process can cause skin sagging, diminishing the results of eyelift surgery and prompting the desire for a touch-up procedure.
• Excessive tearing (epiphora): Excessive tearing, resulting from overproduction or poor drainage, can lead to blurred vision, sore skin around the eyes, and an increased risk of infection.

How is revisional eyelid surgery carried out?

Revisional eyelid surgery depends on the patient, taking into account the results of the first eyelid treatment as well as their unique concerns. Typically, corrective eyelid surgery to eliminate excess skin or muscle is more straightforward.

In mild cases requiring eyelid revision, a retractor release and canthal suspension may be sufficient to restore eyelid position. However, in severe cases involving the removal of excess skin and fat, reconstruction of different layers of the eyelid becomes necessary. This involves the application of various materials, such as hard palate grafts, to the internal lining of the lid.

When the primary issue is excess skin removal, every available option is explored to avoid resorting to skin grafting. Blepharoplasty revision procedures are often more intricate and challenging than the initial surgery. Our experienced doctors employ a variety of reconstructive techniques to reinstate the position and functionality of the eyelid. Drawing on their wealth of experience, they undertake surgery when they believe it can substantially improve the situation within the patient’s expectations. If significant improvement is deemed unattainable, they may advise against further surgery.

Is revision blepharoplasty right for me?

It is recommended to wait until the post-operative swelling has completely subsided, typically a few months after the initial surgery. This waiting period allows for a more accurate assessment of the outcome before considering any further procedures.

With revisional surgery, it is important to know exactly what you hope to achieve and to get the right advice on whether or not those goals are realistic. Determining whether additional surgery is the best option for achieving your goals requires careful consideration. The decision to undergo a revision of eyelid surgery is significant and personal, and it necessitates thoughtful consideration.

Is revisional eyelid surgery dangerous?

While there may be an elevated risk of complications in patients opting for revision blepharoplasty, these risks can be effectively managed by an experienced surgeon. Individuals dissatisfied with the results of eyelid rejuvenation surgery are advised to carefully consider their expectations for revision. Making decisions regarding additional treatments requires balancing these expectations with the information from a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon.

It’s important to note that the associated risks with revision blepharoplasty don’t imply inherent danger in the procedure itself. The primary concern lies in hastily proceeding with surgery under the care of a physician inadequately trained in correcting suboptimal surgical outcomes. This haste could potentially worsen the initial issue or lead to unintended complications.

Our physicians have received specialized training in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. We are committed to guiding patients through the possibilities available to them, ensuring a careful and experienced approach to their individual needs.

Is revisional eyelid surgery painful?

The discomfort associated with revision eyelid surgery is comparable to any standard blepharoplasty procedure. To guarantee complete comfort during the surgery, appropriate anesthesia is administered. Post-operatively, pain medication is prescribed to ensure patients’ comfort. During the follow-up appointment, which is planned soon after the surgery, more talks about additional pain management techniques might occur.

Are there side effects to revisional eyelid surgery?

Blepharoplasty, whether initial or revision surgery, carries both short-term and long-term risks for side effects and complications. Revision surgeries may pose an increased risk due to the need to navigate scar tissue from the initial procedure. Therefore, careful consideration of the surgeon performing revision blepharoplasty is crucial.

Similar to initial eyelid surgery, revision blepharoplasty may involve side effects such as infection and scarring. Patients undergoing revision surgery can anticipate mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Regular follow-up with our team is crucial to facilitating optimal healing. This ongoing communication also allows for the prompt addressing of any concerns that may arise during the recovery process.

How should I prepare for revision blepharoplasty surgery?

During the initial consultation, a thorough medical history will be obtained, covering current medications, allergies, past surgeries, and smoking habits. To prepare for revisional eyelid surgery, patients are advised to cease smoking several weeks before the procedure. You should avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Voltarol, for at least two weeks before the scheduled date.

Patients undergoing sedation or general anesthesia must fast for at least 7 hours before surgery. This is crucial for a safe and complication-free procedure. Additionally, on the day of the procedure, patients should avoid wearing makeup or applying creams to the eye area.

Post-surgery, driving is not advisable due to safety concerns. Patients are strongly encouraged to arrange for a friend or family member to pick them up from the hospital after the procedure.

Why choose COH Clinic for your revisional eyelid procedure?

COH Clinic is a premier clinic, excelling in the treatment of functional eye issues impacting vision and eye health. We specialize in performing cosmetic procedures and revising surgeries that were previously conducted elsewhere with less-than-satisfactory outcomes. This encompasses canthoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, upper blepharoplasty, and other reconstructive surgeries.

For those seeking consultation regarding concerns about the aesthetic or functional aspects of their eyelids, we invite you to schedule an appointment. Our Istanbul office is here to assist you with your needs and offer tailored advice. Our experts will discuss your issues and recommend appropriate treatments during this consultation. Feel free to contact us at +90 (536) 934 6524 to book your consultation.