Blepharoplasty. Indications and preoperative assessment.

Before performing a blepharoplasty, the surgeon must completely evaluate the patient to ascertain the proper diagnosis and indication for surgery and to identify any potentially complicating factors. The anatomy and physiology of the eyelids and lacrimal system must be understood in detail. A complete ophthalmologic examination should be performed to document preoperative decreased visual acuity or limited visual fields. The prevention of complications and the satisfaction of the patient are the goals of the blepharoplasty procedure. These require accurate assessment, proper preoperative diagnosis, and meticulous surgical technique.