Three Non-Cosmetic Reasons for Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is one of the most sought after cosmetic procedures for both men and women, ranking in the top five in popularity year after year. It packs so much rejuvenation power that it’s easy to forget that patients can have other motivations for choosing this form of plastic surgery.
Here are the top reasons people seek eyelid surgery (also known as blepharoplasty) to improve eye function:
1) Better vision. Lifting saggy upper eyelids to achieve a larger visual field is perhaps the top reason for functional blepharoplasty. People often cite safer driving and easier reading as their goals.
2) Contact lens wearability. Some patients have difficulty wearing contact lenses due to aging eyelids. Droopy upper lids can pose a problem in inserting and removing lenses. Saggy lower lids may not protect contacts and eyes well enough, and may cause problems with tear production and drainage.
3) Comfort around the eyes. Redundant eyelid skin causes irritation for some, and occasionally a patient will note their forehead muscles become strained from attempting to hold the eyes open.
According to the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, when sagging eyelids interfere with vision, insurance companies will often pay for eyelid surgery. In the case of more minor problems, coverage can vary.
If you’re having trouble with your eyes due to eyelid issues, it’s a good idea to visit your ophthalmologist. You may be able to choose an oculoplastic surgeon or a plastic surgeon for your procedure, but especially if you plan to seek insurance coverage it’s important to have a full evaluation by an eye specialist.
In our plastic surgery practice in New York, eyelid surgery is one of the procedures we perform most frequently. Our experience with both cosmetic and functional blepharoplasty spans more than three decades.
We know how critical your eyes are to your well-being and appearance, that’s why our approach to blepharoplasty for New York patients is conservative. The goal is to lift your lids and open up the eyes for improved vision and a more youthful appearance, avoiding a tight, permanently surprised or cat-like look. We pay attention to subtle difference between men and women as well, making sure each patient’s results look natural.
