Eyelids & Blepharoplasty
Eyelid surgery – also known as blepharoplasty – focuses on the skin and connective tissue just above and below your eye. Blepharoplasty can repair droopy eyelids that impair your vision, in addition to functional problems with being able to keep your eyelids completely open or closed. Blepharoplasty is also one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed in the U.S.
Because the procedure requires precision in the delicate area of the eye, you’ll want to choose a surgeon with eye surgery expertise, like the ophthalmologists at South Florida Vision Associates.
Ptosis: Drooping Eye
Ptosis is when your upper eyelid – the area between your eyebrow and your upper eyelashes – droops or sags. It may droop a little or a lot, sometimes impairing your ability to see, especially your peripheral vision. It may even cover your pupil (which lets light into the eye), blocking your vision entirely. Ptosis of the lower eyelid appears as puffy, baggy skin under your eyes.
Ptosis can cause symptoms such as blurry vision and watery eyes (excess tear production). You may find yourself tilting your head back or relying on your forehead muscles to raise your eyelids in order to see. If your upper eyelid creases do not line up with one another, it may indicate a muscle or nerve issue affecting one eye.
Why Your Eyes May Droop
Causes of drooping eyes include:
One of the first places where aging becomes apparent is around the eyes. As you age, collagen is lost, muscles weaken, skin sags, and fat accumulates – this is true for your eyelids as well as other areas of the body.
Improper functioning of muscles and nerves can prevent the complete opening or closing of the eyelids, restricting clear vision.
This can occur due to a variety of medical conditions, including diabetes, multiple sclerosis, third nerve palsy, myasthenia gravis, tumors, and more.
It may also occur as a complication of Botox injections or due to an eye injury, previous eye surgery, the use of hard contact lenses, or even excessive eye-rubbing.
Some people are born with naturally hooded eyelids, so a family history of ptosis contributes to the problem.
In addition, some children are born with a defective eyelid muscle that cannot properly lift the upper eyelid. Left untreated, this condition may lead to the development of lazy eye.
Sleep deprivation can contribute to droopy eyelids and eyes that appear red with dark circles underneath.
Blepharoplasty: Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty is the surgical restructuring of the eyelids to improve the appearance of droopy or hooded eyelids and correct any resulting vision impairments. It is a safe and effective surgery that is performed on men and women of all ages. It is also performed on children with an eyelid muscle defect that impacts their vision.
This procedure may be done on the upper or lower eyelids, or both. It often involves removing excess skin or fat, as well as smoothing and reinforcing underlying muscle and tendon tissue. Exactly what is performed during the procedure will depend on the cause of your droopy eyelids, if both lids are affected, how significant the drooping is (whether your vision is affected), muscle function, and your overall health. Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure that allows you to go home the same day.
It’s important to note what a blepharoplasty isn’t: This surgical procedure does not address issues with the eye itself. Your eye will look the same before and after the surgery.
Why Get an Eyelid Lift?
Blepharoplasty effectively lifts and tighten drooping eyelids. It is usually done to enhance your appearance and improve your ability to see. If the sagging skin of your eyelid obstructs your vision, a blepharoplasty may be a medical necessity.
You may be surprised at how a blepharoplasty can dramatically revitalize your appearance. After an eyelid surgery, you should notice:
- Tightened skin around the eyes
- Improved vision
- Reduced wrinkles or puffiness
- A younger appearance
- More wakefulness and alertness
- Increased self-esteem
- Symmetrical eyelid appearance
Eyelid Surgery in Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach & St. Lucie
Are you interested in how an eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can transform your appearance? Call the ophthalmology team at South Florida Vision Associates to find out more. You can also request an appointment now.
