What is blepharoplasty? | Symptoms, causes & treatment

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure often confused with a disease because of its medical nomenclature. It is not a disease, rather, it is a corrective surgery performed on the eyelids for functional and aesthetic reasons. Derived from the Greek words 'blepharon,' meaning eyelid, and 'plassein,' meaning to form, blepharoplasty can revitalize the area surrounding your eyes to give a younger, more rested appearance.

It's essential to note that 'symptoms' is a slightly misleading term when it comes to blepharoplasty, as this term is more appropriate for diseases or conditions. However, several signs might hint that a person might benefit from blepharoplasty. These can include sagging or drooping eyelids, obscured vision due to excess skin around the eyes, bags and dark circles under the eyes, excess skin on the upper eyelids, and fine lines or wrinkles around the lower eyelids.

As for causes, ageing is the primary factor leading individuals to consider blepharoplasty. As we age, the skin loses its elasticity and fat deposits increase around the eyes, causing sagging, drooping, and bagginess that may affect the person's vision and give a tired appearance. Additionally, some individuals may have a hereditary predisposition towards developing these changes at a younger age. Whatever the exact cause, these issues can have a considerable impact on a person's self-confidence and overall quality of life.

The treatment for these indications is the blepharoplasty procedure itself. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on the patient's needs and the surgeon's assessment. 

During upper eyelid blepharoplasty, the surgeon makes a small incision in the natural crease of the eyelid to remove excess skin and fat. For lower eyelid blepharoplasty, an incision is usually made just below the lower lash line to remove or redistribute the excess fat or skin. In some cases, a transconjunctival incision inside the lower eyelid is chosen to eliminate visible scars. The surgeon then uses fine sutures to close the incisions, helping in minimizing the visible scarring.

After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, irritation, or dry eyes. These are common side effects and will usually subside within one to two weeks. For pain management, the patient may be prescribed oral medications or eye drops. While every surgery carries some degree of risk, complications from blepharoplasty are rare. Nonetheless, some potential risks can include infection, negative reaction to anesthesia, difficulty closing the eyes, and in rare cases, loss of vision.

Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure, typically completed within one to two hours. Recovery involves good aftercare, including cold compresses, head elevation when sleeping, and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days. Though the healing process varies per individual, most can return to normal activities within ten to fourteen days.

In conclusion, while blepharoplasty is often associated with cosmetic changes, it is essential to remember that it can offer substantial functional benefits as well. It can improve peripheral vision significantly that can be hampered by sagging upper eyelids. Moreover, it enhances facial harmony by creating a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance. As with any surgical procedure, it is advisable to discuss the risks and benefits thoroughly with a qualified plastic surgeon.