Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is one of the most common procedures done on adult men and women. Most people think of it as a cosmetic procedure. Many times, eyelid surgery is done for health reasons.

The health condition which necessitates this procedure is vision impairment, also known as ptosis. It manifests itself through drooping eyelids which have sagged to the point of affecting the eyesight of the patient. Sometimes, the lid will have drooped on the sides of the eyes, blocking peripheral vision. Other times, the drooping is so severe that it actually blocks the pupil of the eye, impeding total vision. When this happens, surgery is the solution.

Before a surgeon can remove this impediment to the patient’s eyesight, it must be determined that the patient is a good candidate for the surgery. People with a life threatening illness, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease or diabetes will not be eligible. Other medical conditions which would preclude the procedure would be ones that inhibit healing, serious eye problems and even smoking.

Once all of these situations have been ruled out, the surgery can proceed. Many patients are given the choice of having it done in a hospital or an outpatient center and also given their preference between general or local anesthesia. The operation starts with the surgeon making incisions in the natural creases in the upper eyelids. Next, the excess skin and fat are removed and the incision is closed. With no complications, it normally takes less than two hours.

After the operation, the patient will be instructed in the proper care of the wounds. Usually, the surgeon will lubricate the eyes with ointment to prevent drying. The blurring of the vision caused by this is normal and not a cause for concern as it is only temporary. The patient may be told to keep the head elevated and to apply cold compresses to the affected area.

Recovery can be delayed by fluid retention, increased blood flow to the eyes or even dry eyes. This can be avoided by limiting the consumption of alcohol, reducing strenuous physical activities, and by cutting down on reading or using the computer. One week is the normal recovery time. After the incisions have healed, any remaining minor scars will be hidden in the creases.

If eyelid surgery is needed due to sight impediment, (a condition known as ptosis), and can be documented through visual field testing, most insurances including Medicare will pay for the procedure. It is important for the patient to ask the surgeon to perform this testing in order for the procedure to be covered.

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