What Does Eyelid Surgery Treat?

eyelid surgery

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure performed to change the shape and appearance of the upper or lower eyelids. This can be a cosmetic surgery or corrective procedure. Those who suffer from drooping eyelids often have this condition corrected by undergoing a simple, in-patient lift treatment. Most often, drooping lids are caused by a loss of support structure underneath the skin or a buildup of fatty tissue. Most surgeries of this type are performed by making incisions and removing excess tissue.

Who Are Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?

Most people do not suffer from drooping eyelids until they are into their 30s. In some cases, genetic factors may cause permanent drooping of the lids even in children. However, the primary cause of sagging lids is fat deposits located above and in front of the eyeball. This fat is necessary to protect the eyeballs from damage, but many people experience a buildup of excess material that bulges outward and disfigures the upper eyelid.

The lower lids may become saggy because of poor structural support beneath the skin. Gravity does its job as always, and the lid becomes droopy, with new cell growth making the condition permanent unless surgery is performed.

What The Procedure Involves

We schedule a consultation with our patient and offer a simple, surgical procedure that involves incision at a predetermined point on, above, or below the lid.

The upper lids are treated by drawing back the skin after the incision is made and removing excess fatty tissue. The lower lid procedure involves a single cut as well, but the skin may have to be stretched and stitched back into place after the fatty tissue is removed. The procedure itself usually takes no longer than one hour per lid.

In some cases, the patient is given an IV sedation. This helps to keep involuntary reflexes to a minimum and deadens the pain experienced when the incisions are made. After the surgery is complete, the patient will not be able to drive home. The eyes will be partially covered with bandages, and these will have to remain in place for a day or two.

We may prescribe a specialized eyedrop solution for the patient to use while the eye recovers from the procedure.

If you are concerned about your appearance because of droopy, sagging eyelids, this procedure may greatly improve the look of your face. Your eyes are often the first thing other people notice, and nobody wants to give the impression they are bored, tired, or aging rapidly. Also, if you are experiencing difficulty seeing because of puffy and drooped upper eyelids, you may want to consider eyelid surgery. Contact the office of Dr. Steven Warnock today to schedule a consultation. We will go over the entire procedure with you and determine if you are a candidate for this minimally invasive treatment.