Facial plastic surgery
Facial plastic surgery encompasses surgical procedures targeting the eyelids, eyebrows, forehead, and submental region. Surgery can enhance aesthetic appearance, relieve sensations of heaviness, and improve visual function when drooping eyelids or sagging brows restrict the field of vision.
When to see a specialist
- Excess skin on the upper eyelid overhangs the natural lid crease;
- Drooping eyelids restrict your field of vision;
- Your eyelids feel heavy, causing eye or forehead strain;
- Persistent swelling or fullness is present in the upper eyelid area;
- There is loose or redundant skin on the lower eyelids;
- You have prominent bags or persistent swelling beneath the eyes;
- Drooping eyebrows contribute to upper eyelid heaviness;
- You find yourself constantly raising your eyebrows to see better or keep your eyes open;
- You wish to address age-related cosmetic changes in the eyelids, brows, or forehead.
- Please note: A sudden onset of eyelid drooping, facial muscle weakness, or visual disturbances is not a routine cosmetic concern. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms develop.
Common symptoms
How to prepare for your appointment
- Bring your ID card or another valid identification document.
- Consider in advance which areas bother you most and what changes or outcomes you hope to achieve.
- Disclose any prior facial or peri-orbital surgeries, aesthetic injections, and eye conditions to your surgeon.
- Inform your doctor of all medications, dietary supplements, known allergies, and any history of abnormal scarring (e.g., hypertrophic scars or keloids). Do not discontinue prescribed medications on your own initiative.
- If you smoke, discuss cessation with your surgeon, as smoking significantly compromises tissue perfusion and wound healing.
- On the day of surgery, arrive with clean skin—free of makeup, face creams, and contact lenses—and leave jewelry at home.
- If your procedure is scheduled under general anesthesia, strictly follow the fasting guidelines (eating and drinking) provided by the clinic.
- Arrange for an escort home and, if necessary, assistance around the house for the first few days.
What to expect during your appointment
Plastic surgeon consultation
The surgeon assesses your aesthetic goals, evaluates facial proportions, skin laxity, and underlying anatomy, and outlines appropriate treatment options.
Developing the treatment plan
You and the surgeon agree on the goals and scope of the surgery. The surgeon will discuss realistic outcomes, scar placement, potential risks, and post-operative recovery.
Pre-operative preparation
Clinical photographs and surgical markings are completed, and health history is verified. For procedures performed under general anesthesia, an anesthesia evaluation is carried out.
Anesthesia and surgery
Minor eyelid and forehead procedures can often be performed under local anesthesia, whereas more extensive interventions are carried out under general anesthesia. The surgeon corrects the targeted anatomical regions as planned.
Post-operative monitoring and discharge
You will be monitored in the recovery area following surgery. You will be cleared to go home once it is clinically safe.
Recovery and follow-up
You will receive detailed post-operative instructions covering wound hygiene, swelling management, medications, makeup use, and physical activity restrictions. Follow-up visits will be scheduled based on the specific procedure performed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which procedure is right for me?
This depends on whether your main concern stems from excess skin, orbital fat protrusion, brow position, blepharoptosis (drooping lid), or laxity under the chin. A definitive surgical recommendation is made during an in-person clinical assessment.
Does upper eyelid surgery also correct drooping eyebrows?
Not necessarily. When heaviness is primarily caused by brow descent (brow ptosis), an isolated or combined brow lift may be the more effective procedure.
Is surgery performed under local or general anesthesia?
This depends on the specific technique, the extent of the surgical plan, and your health status. The anesthesia modality is decided jointly with your surgeon during pre-operative planning.
Will there be visible scars?
Any surgical incision produces a scar. However, incisions are meticulously positioned within natural skin creases or concealed areas whenever possible. Over time, surgical scars typically mature and fade.
How long does recovery take?
Swelling and bruising are normal and may peak during the first few days. Sutures are typically removed after 5–7 days. Most patients are able to return to work within 7–10 days, and visible bruising usually resolves in 10–14 days. Makeup, saunas, and swimming pools should be avoided until wounds have healed completely, generally for 2–3 weeks.
When can I return to work?
This depends on the extent of surgery, the physical demands of your work, and your personal comfort regarding visible swelling and bruising. Individualized guidance will be provided by your surgeon.
When should I seek urgent medical care?
Immediate medical assessment is required if you experience a sudden decline in vision, acute eye pain, rapid unilateral swelling, significant hemorrhage, high fever, or purulent drainage from the wounds.