Is Eyelid Surgery Right for Me?

Eyes are one of the most defining features of our face, but the functional purpose they serve is key. There are many reasons you might consider eyelid surgery, but how do you know if a blepharoplasty is right for you? The short answer is you start with a simple consultation. Whether your concerns are cosmetic or reconstructive, starting by discussing your goals and concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Karen Szymanski will answer your questions and set you up for a smooth, successful process. What can eyelid surgery do and who makes a good candidate for eyelid surgery?

Cosmetic Eyelid Lift

Whether you wish to change a naturally hooded eye shape or aging has caused your eyelids to droop, a cosmetic blepharoplasty may be a good option to lift the upper eyelid. Similarly, the lower lid can also be addressed. While there are many creams and products aimed at addressing tired, saggy eye skin, the only true solution is to remove the redundant tissue and possibly remove or reposition fat.

Together, you and your surgeon will discuss your goals and the realistic expectations for what results will be like after the procedure. While it is not possible to complete an operation without cutting and therefor scaring, most patients find that the incisions from a blepharoplasty fall nicely within the natural crease of the eyelid and are not noticeable once healed.

Frequently an upper and lower blepharoplasty are completed at the same time and even in conjunction with other procedures for the face like a facelift or fat transfer.

Your Eyelids Are Obstructing Your Vision

While many people wish to change the way, their eyes look for cosmetic reasons, eyelid surgery is also utilized to correct functional problems. This can be the obstruction of vision caused by dropping eyelids or chronic irritation due to excess skin. As we age, the tissues that hold our skin tight begin to loosen and sag. For some, the eyelid skin droops enough to overhang the field of vision. This degree of obstruction can be measured by your eye doctor.

If you are considering a reconstructive blepharoplasty, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Szymanski first. Our office will coordinate with your optometrist or ophthalmologist to ensure all required measurements will be taken as required by your insurance policy. In most cases, we will submit a series of specific photos along with the visual field measurement for prior authorization from your insurance company. There will be specific criteria for coverage set forth by your health insurance policy. If you prefer to check with your insurance, search blepharoplasty with your insurance company: i.e.: blepharoplasty BCBS NC. This usually will generate a link to your insurance company policy.

 Getting Started

If you are considering an eye lift, your first step is to come for an appointment in our office. Together you and Dr. Szymanski will discuss your needs and goals as well as your health. Most often, a blepharoplasty is done in office in our procedure suite, without the need to undergo general anesthesia. This decreases the risks of surgery and allows for increased privacy. Before your consultation, we recommend you write down your questions as they come up and bring them with you to ask. We look forward to helping you find the best option for you and encourage you to call our office to schedule a consultation.