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

image of woman before eyelid surgery and after eyelid surgery
Top Image: Prior to Eyelid Surgery
Bottom Image: After Eyelid Surgery
Done by Mackenzie Sward, M.D.

Eyelid Surgery FAQ’s

What happens during your consultation?

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Your oculoplastic surgeon 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?

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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?

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When it comes to eyelid surgery, it’s important to consider the potential impact on the eye itself. One common risk is the development of dry eye syndrome, which can occur due to weakened blinking or incomplete eyelid closure after the procedure. By choosing an oculoplastic surgeon, you gain access to a specialist who possesses expertise in both eye care and plastic surgery. This unique combination of skills enables them to effectively manage these specific concerns. Oculoplastic surgeons are well-versed in taking preventive measures before and after the surgery to minimize the risk of dry eye complications. If dry eye symptoms do arise, they have the necessary knowledge to promptly address and treat them.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for surgery?

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To ensure a smooth and safe procedure, you may be asked to make certain preparations beforehand. One important consideration is any blood-thinning medication that you may be taking. Your surgeon may instruct you to adjust the dosage or temporarily discontinue the medication to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during the surgery. It is crucial to follow their instructions closely to promote a successful outcome.

Where is surgery done?

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Your eyelid surgery will take place at the Envision Surgery Center, which is a specialized ambulatory surgical center solely focused on performing eye surgeries. This center is specifically designed and equipped to meet the unique requirements of eye procedures, ensuring a high standard of care and safety during your surgery.

What is recovery like?

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During the initial week following your eyelid surgery, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting as instructed by your doctor. It is common to experience bruising and swelling around the eyes, which can last for one to two weeks. Your doctor will recommend applying ice regularly to your incisions to help reduce swelling. These measures will aid in your healing process and promote a smoother recovery.

How soon can I confidently resume public activities and when will I see the results?

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The timeline for feeling comfortable going back in public and witnessing the full results of your eyelid surgery may vary for each individual. While bruising and swelling typically subside within two weeks, it is advisable to allow yourself a period of 4-6 weeks for the majority of the healing process to progress. This will give your body ample time to recover and for the final results to become more apparent. It’s important to be patient and give yourself the necessary time to achieve the desired outcome before confidently returning to your normal routine.

Does eyelid surgery make me look younger?

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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?

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The longevity of the results can vary from person to person. However, many individuals experience long-lasting improvements following eyelid surgery. It’s important to note that while the surgery can provide lifelong benefits, other factors such as aging and natural changes in the eye area may affect the results over time. It’s always best to consult with an oculoplastic surgeon at Milwaukee Eye Care for a personalized assessment and to learn more about the potential long-term benefits you may achieve with eyelid 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.

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