Eyelid Surgery Information
Blepharoplasty is the medical terminology for what most people refer to as eyelid surgery, an eyelid lift, cosmetic eyelid surgery, or eyelid plastic surgery, and lower eyelid surgery.
Length and details of the Eyelid Surgery procedure
In this procedure the goal is to correct a drooping eyelid and puffy bags below the eyes. This is accomplished by removing the excess fat, skin, and muscle that may occur naturally or develop as an individual ages. This surgery often is used to correct visual field defects. This surgery may be a medical necessity for some individuals. In these type cases the surgery may possible be covered by insurance. The length of operation usually runs 1 to 3 hours.
Patients are given a general or local anesthesia, with sedation.
Depending on the extent of the surgery a patient typically undergoes an outpatient surgery.
Risks and/or complications related to Eyelid Surgery
For most eyelid surgery operations the patient will experiences potential side effects consisting of temporary discomfort, tightness and swelling of eye lids, bruising. Many experience temporary dryness, burning, or itching of the eyes. Additionally some patients report excessive tearing, and a general sensitivity to light for first few weeks following the procedure.
In addition there are other associated risks with this procedure that include the risk of blurred or double vision, infection, bleeding, and swelling at the eyelids corners. Others may experience dry eyes, and a temporary difficulty in closing ones eyes completely. In extremely rare cases a potential for Blindness could exist.
For most patients the recovery time needed varies with the activity. The recovery time for reading is between 2 and 3 days. A return to work is feasible between 7 to 10 days after the procedure. Contact lenses wearers should plan on waiting 2 or more weeks before resuming the use of contact lenses. Those involved in sports or other physical activities will be able to resume these activities in approximately 3 weeks. Bruising and swelling will gradually decrease after 3 weeks.
Long-term results of Eyelid Surgery
In this procedure the results will last several years and are often permanent.
How much does Eyelid Surgery cost?
The national average is approximately $2,500.
Will my insurance cover Eyelid Surgery?
Only in extreme cases where the vision is clearly impacted.
Read more about Eyelid Surgery - Blepharoplasty and its benefits. Alan Hood is a contributing writer at http://www.houstonmedcenter.com.