Blepharoplasty
As we get older, the skin and muscles of the eyelid can sag and droop. The area around the eye also changes in other ways — the fat that surrounds and cushions the eyeball can bulge forward through the skin of the upper and lower lids. This excess skin, muscle, and fat can weigh down the upper lid and, in some cases, block your vision.
This can lead to fatigue, eyestrain, skin irritation, and a loss of peripheral vision, while also causing a less-than-satisfactory appearance for some people.
Fortunately, if you’re one of the many people who are affected, there are options available to alleviate discomfort and present a refreshed appearance. Blepharoplasty is one such option available here at Eye Centers of Tennessee.
How Blepharoplasty Works
A blepharoplasty is the removal or repositioning of skin, muscle, and fat of the upper and/or lower lids. The procedure is performed using tiny incisions, either in the natural crease of the upper eyelid or just beneath the eyelashes of the lower eyelid.
By removing the excess tissue blocking the eye, blepharoplasty of the upper lids may allow more light in and improve your peripheral vision.
Because excess skin, muscle, and fat are consequences of aging, most patients feel that blepharoplasty improves their appearance and makes them feel more youthful. But it’s important to note that results vary from patient to patient and can’t be guaranteed.
Am I a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
As with any medical procedure, the decision to undergo blepharoplasty is a personal one to be made after consultation with your doctor. In general, those who are dealing with discomfort, impaired vision, or dissatisfaction with the appearance of their eyelids, who are in good health, and who have no other eye health issues are good candidates.
Depending on your specific case, your insurance provider may cover the costs of the procedure. Most insurance companies will cover blepharoplasty when the eyelid tissue blocks the upper part of the visual field. This can be determined by lifting the upper eyelids with your fingers to see if the upper visual field improves or brightens.
Before having blepharoplasty, a formal visual field test will be performed in our office to accurately measure the lost vision.