Eyelid surgery – known in the medical field as blepharoplasty – is a procedure performed on the eyelids to remove excess skin causing bagginess. An eyelift is typically done for cosmetic purposes but has become more popular as an effective treatment to improve eyesight. Eyelid surgery is very helpful to many women and men over 40 who have excess sagging in their eyelids.
The Aging Process and Eyelid Obstruction
Sagging upper eyelids obstruct the field of vision and brightness of sight in older people. This is because the upper and lower eyelids gradually lose elasticity as people age. Lack of elasticity plus the natural pull of gravity causes excess skin to collect and impede vision.
The extra fold of skin on the upper eyelid hangs over the eyelashes, reducing vision, while excess skin on the lower eyelids results in wrinkles and bulges. Also, a thin membrane holding eyelid fat in place weakens with age and pushes it forward into the eyelids similar to a hernia.
The weight of excess eyelid tissue also causes:
- Brow ache
- Brow fatigue
- Eyelid infection
- Chronic dry eye
- Lash intrusion causes eye irritation and infection
Eyelid Surgery Procedure
Before the procedure begins you will be given local anesthesia along with an oral sedative.
The procedure begins with the upper eyelids and consists of:
- Incisions along the natural lines of the eyelids
- Separating the skin from the underlying tissue
- Removing excess fat, skin, and muscle
- Closure of cuts with small stitching
Next, the lower eyelids are addressed in one of two techniques:
The first is making a cut inside the lower eyelid to remove fat and then making the cut appear softened with a laser.
The second technique consists of making an incision along the eyelash margin and then removing excess skin, fat, and loose muscle. This method results in the cut line fading after a short period of time.
Improve Your Vision and Appearance With Eyelid Surgery
At Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala, FL, you can improve the appearance of your eyes and their vision capabilities. Schedule your consultation about how eyelid surgery can open your eyes with Dr. Thomas Croley by contacting us at 352-237-8400.