If you have sagging or drooping eyelids and would like to improve your appearance or ability to see, blepharoplasty might be right for you. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about this procedure.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a type of cosmetic surgical procedure that is done to change the appearance of the eyelids and surrounding areas. Blepharoplasty may be done to help create a youthful look to the face by removing excess skin and wrinkles that occur from aging. Eyelid surgery creates a fast and easy way to look younger and reduce wrinkles and sagging associated with aging.

Can eyelid surgery improve my appearance?

Eyelid surgery provides immediate improvement to the facial appearance by raising the eyelids giving the face a younger or well-rested look. As people get older the skin around the eyes starts to sag and the underlying muscles lose their elasticity and no longer hold the skin tightly in place. Blepharoplasty can correct these problems returning the eyes to their original and younger position.

How is eyelid surgery done?

Eyelid surgery is completed by a qualified cosmetic surgeon. The surgeon uses tiny incisions and pulls the skin tightly before closing the incisions. Surgery is usually done as outpatient surgery and is most often completed at the surgeon's medical office. Eyelid surgery usually heals quickly with little pain. Because the incisions are very small there is minimal scarring.

How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?

Results of eyelid surgery are immediate and can last for years. The face will have a more youthful appearance with a brighter look. As the patient ages the skin will continue to slowly sag over time. For this reason patients may want eyelid surgery completed again after many years.

Is eyelid surgery covered by medical insurance?

Blepharoplasty is considered cosmetic surgery and is often not covered by regular medical insurance. Patients should consult with their medical insurance provider to determine what portion is covered. Surgeons usually offer flexible payment plans or financing to make eyelid surgery affordable for anyone who wants to get it.

Contact a Texas eyelid surgery center for more information on blepharoplasty and other cosmetic surgery procedures. If you have any questions about plastic surgery, Texas surgeon Ozan Sozer MD can provide answers to any questions you have.