Changes in Intraocular Pressure and Ocular Biometry After Blepharoplasty

Purpose To investigate the effects of blepharoplasty on intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular biometric parameters. Methods A total of 112 eyelids of 56 patients undergoing bilateral blepharoplasty due to upper eyelid dermatochalasis was included. The patients were classified into three groups according to margin reflex distance (MRD) (Group 1 >4 mm MRD, Group 2 2-4 mm MRD, and Group 3 <2 mm MRD). The IOP and ocular biometric parameters obtained baseline and postoperative 3rd month were compared. Results The demographic characteristics of the groups were similar (p > 0.05, for all). IOP (p = 0.002) and central corneal thickness (p = 0.038) increased in Group 3. The mean amount of the increase in IOP was 0.95mmHg. The keratometric values increased in all groups and corneal astigmatism was also increased in Group 2 and Group 3 (p < 0.001, for all). The mean amount of the increase in corneal astigmatism was 0.54D in Group 3. Anterior chamber depth and axial length did not change (p > 0.05, for all). The intraocular lens powers calculated by six different formulas decreased in Group 3 (p < 0.001, for all), and the mean amount of the decrease was 0.40D. Conclusions Clinicians should be aware of the potential change in IOP and ocular biometric parameters in patients who underwent blepharoplasty. If a patient has glaucoma risk factors, close follow-up is needed after blepharoplasty. Change in strategy or timing may also be needed for dermatochalasis patients when planning corneal refractive surgery or cataract surgery.