Description
Aesthetic eyelid surgery ("blepharoplasty") corrects saggy or drooping eyelids, and bags or bulges above and below the eyes, which are caused by aging or inherited traits. Surgery to remove loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids - thereby impairing vision - may be covered by medical insurance.

How It's Done
For upper eyelid surgery, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed through a hidden incision in the upper eyelid that follows the natural contour of the lid. For lower eyelid surgery, an incision is usually hidden just below the lower lashes.

Length of Procedure
1 to 3 hours.

Results
Long-lasting, usually for many years.

Anesthesia
Local with Sedation
General

Recovery
Eyelids may feel tight after surgery and patients will experience varying degrees of swelling and bruising in the first 7 to 10 days. Patients are reccommended to wear dark sunglasses for a couple of weeks to protect their eyes from wind and sun irritation.

Side Effects / Risks
Significant complications from eyelid surgery are rare but may include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin), infection and reactions to anesthesia. Patient may experience some temporary blurred or double vision, and some experience dryness or irritation in the treated eye that requires treatment. Temporary decrease in sensation of the eyelid skin or impaired eyelid function may occur.