Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty

Skin can lose its elasticity with age, causing the upper eyelid skin to sag. This excess skin can not only create an appearance of tired eyes, but it can also obstruct peripheral vision, create a “heavy” or “tired” sensation of your eyes, and cause strain due to the extra effort required to raise your eyelids. Excess, baggy skin of the upper eyelid is called dermatochalasis. Surgery to remove this excess skin is called blepharoplasty and we perform this procedure for cosmetic purposes or vision (medical/functional) purposes.  

There are multiple conditions that could cause your upper eyelids to droop. If your doctor determines that the underlying eyelid muscle is weakened (ptosis), or there is a component of eyebrow drooping (Brow ptosis), you may be referred to a specialized surgeon for a more complex procedure. Call us today to schedule your eyelid evaluation and determine if you are a candidate for blepharoplasty.

Before & After Blepharoplasty

Eyelid Surgery FAQ’s

What happens during your consultation?

Dr. Mackenzie Sward will evaluate the underlying cause of your drooping eyelids by performing a thorough examination and measuring the mechanical function of your eyelids. If we discuss surgery, we often take photos for pre-operative documentation and insurance verification purposes. At some point in the process, you may undergo formal visual field testing, which measures the amount of peripheral vision that is obstructed by the drooping eyelids.

Will insurance cover my eyelid lift?

Functional blepharoplasty may be covered if your peripheral vision obstruction or symptoms meet the requirements of your insurance company.

Why should I choose an eye doctor to do my lid surgery?

Eyelid surgery can affect the eye itself, and there is a risk of developing dry eye following eyelid surgery due to decreased blink strength or incomplete eyelid closure. An eye surgeon who has experience with managing issues such as these can take additional measures pre- and post-operatively to reduce the risk of dry eye complications or promptly address them should they occur.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for surgery?

You may be asked to adjust any blood thinning medication you take.

Where is surgery done?

Dr. Mackenzie Sward does your eyelid surgery at an outpatient surgery center.

What is recovery like?

You will have some restrictions from strenuous activity and heavy lifting for the first week. You can expect to have a lot of bruising and swelling around your eyes that may last for one or two weeks. Your doctor will instruct you to apply ice frequently to your incisions to reduce swelling.

How long until I feel comfortable going back in public/when should I see results?

This depends upon the individual. Bruising and swelling may last up to two weeks, but you should allow yourself 4-6 weeks for most of the healing process to complete.

Does eyelid surgery make me look younger?

Baggy or droopy eyelids can cause a tired or aged appearance. Eyelid surgery can restore a more open and youthful appearance of your eyes that can both improve your vision and appearance.

How long do the results last?

This can vary depending on the individual, but many will have lifelong improvement following this surgery.

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Ectropion

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Ectropion is the term for a lower eyelid that droops away from the surface of the eye. The most common cause of ectropion is age-related changes of the skin. When the lower eyelid sags, there is not adequate tear coverage of the eye and the surface easily dries out. Patients may experience dryness, irritation, redness, excess watering, or foreign body sensation. Surgery can be done to correct the eyelid position.

Entropion

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Entropion is the term for a lower eyelid that rotates in towards the surface of the eye. The most common cause of ectropion is related to age, but it may also develop from previous surgeries around the eyelid, scarring, or spasms of the eyelid muscles. When entropion occurs, patients may experience irritation, redness, scratching due to eyelashes rubbing on the eye, and excess watering of the eye. Surgery can be performed to correct the eyelid position.