Blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid surgery, is a popular and frequently performed procedure. By improving sagging skin, removing folds, and reducing bulging bags under the eye, blepharoplasty can reduce the signs of aging and eliminate a tired or fatigued appearance. In some cases, eyelid surgery is performed to increase field of vision in individuals whose sagging eyelids interfere with sight.
Despite being one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures, many people are unfamiliar with eyelid surgery. Because the procedure takes place in a delicate area that is both highly sensitive to pain and highly visible to others, it isn’t unusual to have any number of questions about the surgery, how it is performed, and what results can be achieved. For those considering blepharoplasty, here are answers to five of the most commonly asked questions about the procedure.
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1. Is There An Age Restriction for Eyelid Surgery?
Though commonly performed on individuals in their forties and fifties, blepharoplasty can be performed on anyone at any age as long as they are in good health. In general, surgeons prefer to wait until individuals are at least 18 years of age so that facial features are fully developed. That being said, there are medical indications for performing the procedure at a younger age.
2. How Long Does the Surgery Take and What Is the Recovery Like?
In most cases, eyelid surgery takes about an hour to perform. Most patients are discharged to home the same day. Swelling and bruising around the eyes is common and lasts for roughly 1 to 2 weeks. Patients occasionally experience dryness and itching of the eyes as well as excess production of tears, sensitivity to bright light, and blurred or double vision. All of these symptoms tend to resolve when eyelid function returns to normal. Patients are generally advised to take at least a week off of work and are allowed to resume normal physical activity within a few days. Strenuous activity, however, should be avoided for several weeks after the procedure. Alcohol should not be consumed during recovery.
3. Where Are the Incisions Made?
For surgery on the upper eyelid, incisions are made in the eyelid crease so that any minor scars are completely invisible. For surgery on the lower eyelid, the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid and thus no scar is visible. In most cases, dissolving sutures are used and thus do not need to be removed.
4. What Are the Risks and Complications Associated With Eyelid Surgery?
Every surgical procedure carries risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, and reaction to the anesthetic. Fortunately, these complications occur infrequently. To reduce the risk of these side effect further, choosing an accomplished surgeon is of tantamount importance. Additionally, having a licensed, knowledgeable anesthesiologist is a must.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Blepharoplasty?
Insurance covers eyelid surgery if it is performed to treat a medical condition, such as drooping of the eyelids, that interferes with vision. If blepharoplasty is performed solely to achieve a cosmetic benefit, it is unlikely that insurance will provide coverage. Most surgeons employ a specialist who can help guide patients through the process of paying for a particular procedure.
For Additional Guidance
Patients who are interested in blepharoplasty should seek out a qualified surgeon. He or she will be able to answer any questions that a patient may have, including questions that are specific to their medical history. It is important to note that qualified plastic surgeons of the highest caliber can be found in any city in the United States. So whether you live in the Des Moines, IW or Beverly Hills, CA, you can find an outstanding surgeon to perform eyelid surgery. Patients would be well advised to choose a surgeon who specializes in eyelid surgery and who has years if not decades of experience.