The effect of blepharoplasty on our patient’s quality of life, emotional stability, and self-esteem

Background: Several studies have been conducted evaluating psychological effects following aesthetic surgery, however few of them following blepharoplasty! Purpose: To determine whether blepharoplasty affects quality of life and satisfaction as well as, emotional stability and self-esteem in patients who underwent only blepharoplasty. Design: A retrospective study including transdermal blepharoplasty operations between the years 1995 and 2008. Methods: A self-developed and indication-specific questionnaire especially for blepharoplasty, as well as the standardized testing instruments FLZM, FPI-R, and RSES, concerning quality of life, body image, personality, and self-esteem was utilized. Participants: A total of 123 patients were included in the study. Forty-six patients participated in the study. Main Outcomes and Measures: Results were compared with the existing representative norm data from the German speaking countries. Results: In the indication-specific questionnaire, 44 patients reported a positive influence on their personal wellbeing, and 33 were more satisfied with their appearance (follow-up 3–95 months; average 48.5 months); 20 felt more self-confident, and 25 felt more attractive. Statistically significant increased values in quality of life (FLZM) were found in the aspects work (P ¼ 0.02), mobility (P < 0.001) and independence from assistance or help (P < 0.001). Higher scores concerning personality and self-esteem compared with the respective random sample were found in the questionnaires FPI-R (P ¼ 0.02) and RSES (P < 0.001). Conclusion and Relevance: Among plastic surgical interventions, blepharoplasty is a minimal invasive operation, which is very well tolerated by patients. Patients take advantage in personal wellbeing, self-esteem, and different aspects of their daily life.