Blepharoplasty
(Eyelid Surgery)

Blepharoplasty
(Eyelid Surgery)

Blepharoplasty
(Eyelid Surgery)

What is Blepharoplasty?

What is Blepharoplasty?

Eyelid surgery, technically known as Blepharoplasty, is the most commonly performed surgery to rejuvenate the aesthetic appearance of the skin & tissue surrounding the eyes.

Blepharoplasty is used to correct an aesthetic flaw associated with excess skin above the eyes. This procedure helps to create a healthier, more youthful, refreshed appearance. Drooping eyelids, and other issues that lead people to consider eyelid surgery, are not necessarily exclusive to an aging population. While commonly performed on patients over forty, it is not entirely uncommon to be performed on a younger individual.

If you are concerned with excess skin on your upper eyelids Dr. Secretan can help you reach your goal to have youthful, bright, beautiful eyes!

Our eyes, in addition to their obvious physiological function, when bright and rested-looking, can make a great first impression or simply help to improve how someone feels about themselves when they look in the mirror. Lax eyelid skin can impact functionality, and can affect the overall appearance. Eyelid surgery can restore a younger and more alert appearance and improve the skin surrounding the eyes.

FAQ: About Your Eyelid Surgery

FAQ: About Your Eyelid Surgery

During blepharoplasty, incisions are made along the natural lines of the upper and lower eyelid; Dr. Secretan will use these natural creases to better camouflage any evidence of surgery within the natural contours of the brow and/or eyelids. Blepharoplasty is a personalized surgery and each procedure is specifically designed to cater to the individual patient’s desired aesthetic results, and unique medical needs.

While Blepharoplasty is a common and gentle surgical procedure, it is always necessary that you share your full medical history with your doctor prior to surgery. Be sure to share all medications and supplements you are currently taking as well, because some can interfere with the healing process. Results do vary based on a few variables such as age, overall health of the patient and in general, each individual responds to surgical procedures uniquely. Should an individual desire more dramatic changes to their physical aesthetic, a secondary procedure may be recommended to compliment the effects of their blepharoplasty.

Although blepharoplasty has been thoroughly researched, and safely practiced for many years, there are inherent risks to consider when undergoing any surgery, no matter how minor. Before committing to the procedure, prospective patients of Dr. Secretan will be scheduled for a private consultation in his Lethbridge office. The purpose of this private and personal consultation is to properly educate any prospective patient about the risks associated with general anesthesia. It’s also a time for you to discuss your personal goals and the long term benefits of blepharoplasty. Certain medical conditions (eg. diabetes) require special accommodation when considering an elective surgery, so be sure to disclose any existing medical conditions before committing to any elective surgical procedure.

Dr. Secretan may also request a prospective patient to visit an ophthalmologist and/or complete an eye health exam, to ensure eligibility. Due to the inherent risks involved in even the safest procedures, there are some lifestyle changes recommended to any and all prospective patients such as discontinuing any medications, or herbal supplements associated with bleeding (a comprehensive list will be provided) for a time prior to your surgery.

Most patients have a very satisfactory result following the blepharoplasty procedure. Possible complications (which will be discussed at your consultation) include bleeding, infection, dry eyes, or abnormal discoloration of the eyelids. Less common complications include abnormal folding in or out of the eyelid skin, an inability to fully close the eyes, a pulled-down, lower-lid lash line, or a possible loss of vision.

During your consultation you will receive a quote for your surgery from Dr. Secretan which will include all associated costs of your surgery.

If you are considering having multiple cosmetic procedures done, speak with Dr. Secretan about the possibility of having them all done at once.

For patients whose insurance will not cover cosmetic procedures, there are financing options available. Often patients will use a credit card or a personal line of credit, however our clinic offers financing through companies like Medicard that specialize in financing for cosmetic procedures.

Your quote will include the following fees:

Anesthesia Fees

These fees cover the cost of the anesthetist, whose presence is required during and immediately after your surgery, and the anesthesia administered.

Hosptial/Private Surgical Suite Fees

These fees cover the cost of where your surgery is scheduled to take place.

The Surgeon’s Fees

In addition to your actual surgery, these fees also cover all pre-operative and post-operative follow-up appointments with your surgeon. Miscellaneous costs include the compression garment and any supplies you’ll need while you recover (such as sterile bandages).

To determine the exact cost of your personal surgery, book a consultation with Dr. Secretan.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have any concerns or questions prior to your surgery, you are encouraged to speak to Dr. Secretan or his office staff in advance to ensure you are fully prepared for your surgical date.

 What to AVOID 2 Weeks Before Surgery:

    •    Smoking (nicotine and marijuana). Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and can have serious negative impacts on your healing.
    •    Alcohol for at least 2 weeks pre-op, as it may increase bruising and prolong swelling.
    •    Naturopathic or herbal medications
    •    MUST discontinue Aspirin, Advil or Ibuprofen, as these products may increase bleeding and prolong swelling.

What You Need:

   •    Q-Tips and 4×4 non-woven sterile gauze
    •    Hydrogen peroxide
    •    Polysporin ointment
    •    Fresh Eyes – lubricating drops
    •    Vitamin C – Patients may take up to 2000 mg of Vitamin C daily for up to 2 weeks prior to surgery.
    •    Prescription for pain medication provided by Dr. Secretan on the day of your surgery.
    •    Ice packs
    •    Patients must have a ride arranged and confirmed.
    •    Recommended: Dermatix gel for scar healing

How to Care for Incisions:

    •    Clean incisions twice a day (morning and before bed) with hydrogen peroxide using a Q-Tip or sterile non-woven gauze. Lightly dab or wipe area. Avoid rubbing.
    •    Apply polysporin or bacitracin ointment after cleaning with Hydrogen peroxide, for up to 7 days.
    •    If steri-strips were applied to the incisions by Dr. Secretan directly after surgery, please avoid getting them wet and they will be removed by the nurse upon your 10 day follow up.
    •    If no steri-strips are in place, please do not cover the incisions, leave them open to air.
    •    You may apply ice packs to the swollen areas for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off for the first 48 hours or less. This will help reduce swelling. Please ensure you place sterile gauze between the ice pack and the skin.

What you Need to Know:

    •    The sutures used in an upper eyelid blepharoplasty are removed 8 days post-operatively in Dr. Secretan’s private clinic.
    •    Sleep with your head propped up with 2-3 pillows for the first 3 days.
    •    Standard post-operative bruising and swelling may last for 7-14 days. With minimal swelling lasting several weeks. Please be patient.
    •    You may experience pain during the recovery process. Take Tylenol for pain.
    •    Bathing is allowed one day post-operatively. Avoid direct stream of water for one week.
    •    Often patients experience heightened anxiety around the surgical period. This is normal.

What to AVOID post-surgery:

    •    Avoid bending over or lifting heavy things for one week. Besides aggravating swelling, this may raise your blood pressure and start hemorrhage.
    •    Avoid smoking (nicotine and marijuana), for one month as it may negatively impact healing and increase risk of complications.
    •    Alcohol for at least 2 week pre-op and 2 weeks post-operatively, as it may cause fluid retention and prolong swelling. Alcohol should not be taken with pain medication.
    •    Naturopathic or herbal medications
    •    Aspirin, Advil or Ibuprofen, as these products may prolong swelling.
    •    Moderate physical exercise for up to 4 weeks post-operatively.
    •    Strenuous physical exercise for up to 6 weeks post-operatively
    •    Direct sun exposure on incisions for up to 12 months. Use a minimum of SPF 45 daily.

If you experience any of the following listed below, please contact Dr. Secretan directly or by email at info@lpsa.ca.
    •    If you develop a large firm mass extending from the surgical area.
    •    If you develop a rash, persistent fever, chills or sweating.
    •    If you notice a foul odour or yellow drainage coming from the incision sites.
    •    If you experience severe pain, that is not controlled with Tylenol.
    •    If you experience persistent bleeding that does not resolve in 20 minutes or with direct pressure.
    •    Persistent vomiting and inability to drink liquids for greater than 4 hours
    •    Shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness or numbness in the face or limbs

Please notify Dr. Secretan of any unexpected admission to a hospital within 10 days of your procedure.

If you require any clarification regarding these instructions or would like to arrange a follow up appointment, please call the office.

About Eyelid Surgery in Lethbridge

If you are interested in a Blepharoplasty, the first step is a consultation with Dr. Secretan, our plastic surgeon. During your consultation Dr. Secretan will discuss your goals and treatment options.

LPSA is a full-service plastic surgery and medical aesthetics office located in southern Alberta. Our patients travel from all over Alberta and British Columbia to receive care from us, and we pride ourselves in offering the most effective and proven techniques available.
For a full list of our non-surgical interventions, please view our aesthetic services.