Blepharoplasty / Eyelid Surgery
What is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, commonly known as blepharoplasty, rejuvenates sagging or drooping eyes. Since the skin around the eyelid is significantly thinner than other parts of the face, it is often one of the first areas to exhibit signs of aging. During surgery, fatty deposits and excess or loose skin around the upper or lower eyelids are removed and eyelid muscles and tissue are occasionally tightened.
Blepharoplasty can be done alone to improve vision problems or for cosmetic purposes. Additionally, eyelid surgery can be done in conjunction with procedures such as a facelift, lip enhancement, or a brow lift to create a more defined, new look.
Blepharoplasty Candidates
Candidates that are seeking eyelid surgery should be in good overall health, do not smoke, and have healthy facial tissue and muscles. However, patients with eye disease including glaucoma or retinal detachment are not good candidates. Other medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure often prevent patients from eyelid surgery. If patients have any additional medical questions they can speak with Dr. Kristin Tarbet.
Types fo Eyelid Surgery
Based on what is best for the patient’s needs and aesthetic outcome Dr. Tarbet will perform one of two types of eyelid surgery. It is important to note that both types of blepharoplasty do not radically change your face but can enhance your appearance. A functional blepharoplasty is performed when eyelid sagging is affecting the field of vision. This type of blepharoplasty eliminates the drooping of skin and when done will greatly improve peripheral vision. Your insurance may cover this surgical process.
- Functional blepharoplasty
The second type of eyelid surgery is a cosmetic blepharoplasty. This procedure is done for cosmetic, instead of medical, purposes. Surgery can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids. In the case of the lower eyelid, a transconjunctival blepharoplasty is performed. This is ideal for younger patients with thicker, more elastic skin. Excess fat is removed which has no effect on a patient’s vision and leaves the patient with a younger and refreshed look.
- Cosmetic blepharoplasty
What can eyelid surgery correct?
Eyelid surgery may become necessary when various factors including aging, sun damage, smoking and obesity, change the appearance of the eyes. In this case, patients can correct the following with eyelid surgery.
- Undereye bags
- Puffy fat deposits in the eyelids
- Loose or sagging upper eyelids that interfere with vision
- Excess skin in the lower eyelids
- Fine wrinkles in the lower eyelids
- Sagging lower eyelids that show the whites of the eyes below the irises
