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Eyelid lift

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Blepharoplasty

Risks:

Risks of an eyelid lift may include:

• Double or blurred vision
• Temporary swelling of the eyelids
• Uneven healing or scarring
• Tiny whiteheads after stitches are removed
• Difficulty closing the eyes while sleeping (rarely permanent)
• Slow healing

Medical conditions that make blepharoplasty more risky are:

• Thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism and Graves' disease
• Dry eye or lack of sufficient tears
• High blood pressure or other circulatory disorders
• Heart disease or disorders of the blood vessels
• Diabetes

The risks for any anesthesia include:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

The risks for any surgery include:

• Bleeding
• Infection

References:

Bosniak S. Reconstructive upper lid blepharoplasty. Ophthalmol Clin North Am . Jun 2005; 18(2): 279-89, vi.

Hoenig JA. Comprehensive management of eyebrow and forehead ptosis. Otolaryngol Clin North Am . Oct 2005; 38(5): 947-84.

• Review Date: 2/22/2007
• Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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