This month’s patient question: “I am considering an eyelid lift. What is a blepharoplasty and how does it work?”
Dr. Patel answered:
A blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove skin and to add or remove fat from the eyelids. This procedure is used to correct defects, deformities, and disfigurations of the eyelids. It is also used to aesthetically modify the eye region of the face.
This procedure can be done to either the lower or the upper eyelid.
Often, many of my patients will complain of baggy and droopy eyelids. These signs can ultimately affect the quality of a patient’s peripheral vision. Sometimes, it is purely a cosmetic concern. Nonetheless, the surgical procedure is essentially the same.
An upper eyelid blepharoplasty creates incisions on the skin to remove skin and fat. The skin is then stitched to bring the skin together and create an eyelid crease. The incisions are made along the naturally occurring eyelid crease, so the final wound blends with the natural anatomy.
When this procedure is performed on the lower eyelid, an incision is made directly below the lash line or through the internal eyelid. The first approach, known as a subciliary approach, is great for those patients who need both skin removed and fat sculpting. The latter is known as the transconjunctival approach, and is perfect for patients who want fat to be removed or added to the eyelid. This approach can also be combined with laser resurfacing to reduce lines and wrinkles around the eye.
Generally speaking, if the upper eyelids are causing functionally significant visual problems, the procedure may be covered by your medical insurance. However, cosmetic blepharoplasties are not covered.
Blepharoplasty can be used to treat:
- Bags under the eyes
- Loose or sagging skin in the upper eyelids
- Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the upper and/or lower eyelids
- Excess fatty deposits causing puffiness in the eyelids
- Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
Dr. Patel is a well-trained, experienced, and Board-Certified Ophthalmologist who has performed many blepharoplasties, both functional and cosmetic. Before choosing blepharoplasty a an option to treat your eyelid condition, it’s important to schedule a consultation to determine what is best for your individual circumstances.
