Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that is done to correct or enhance a previous eyelid surgery, which is also known as eyelid-revision surgery. Although the first eyelid surgeries are done for cosmetic purposes or to correct vision problems that may be caused by drooping eyelids, not all the results are satisfactory. In such circumstances, a revision process is required to enhance the look or address remaining concerns.
Understanding the Purpose of Eyelid-Revision
Eyelid-revision surgery is done mainly to correct complications or poor outcomes of previous surgeries. This may include drooping of the eyelids, swelling that remains after surgery, scarring, over-resection or under-resection of the tissue, or inability to close the eyes completely. It can also be applied in cases where there is asymmetry or where the initial results have changed with time or due to the natural healing process.
Due to the fact that the eye has a complex structure and the tissue is already altered during the first surgery, the second surgery is considered to be more complicated. It is a procedure that should be performed by an oculoplastic or facial plastic surgeon who has adequate experience in the field.
Who Might Benefit from Eyelid-Revision Surgery?
Patients who may require eyelid-revision [แก้ตาสองชั้น, which is the term in Thai] surgery include those who have previously undergone eyelid surgery and are not satisfied with the outcome, have complications that affect the functionality of their eyes, or both. Some of the most frequently reported symptoms are scarring, sunken eyes, tightness, drooping, and pain. Sometimes the initial surgery may not have been properly done, or the problem of puffiness or sagging skin may persist.
It is recommended that patients wait for several months (preferably up to six) before they seek a revision surgery since the initial surgery may not have fully healed. This is because tissues take time to settle down, and the surgeon can then evaluate the results of the surgery. It will be possible to establish whether revision is necessary and what kind of approach is best for the situation.
Important Considerations Before Proceeding
Since revision surgery involves more risks due to the altered tissue, it is important to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon. The surgeon will assess the initial surgery, the patient’s current status, and the goal of the surgery before developing a surgical strategy. It is crucial to have proper expectations and to be open to communication to get the best outcome.
Conclusion
The surgery of revision of the eyelids is a useful option for those who want to correct the results of previous eyelid surgery. Whether the concern is cosmetic, structural, or both, this corrective surgery can help to correct the imbalance, alleviate the discomfort, and rebuild self-esteem, given that it is done with the right approach, time, and medical advice.