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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – While blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is typically considered a purely cosmetic procedure, this surgery also offers real medical benefit for many patients. Eyelid surgery involves removing excess skin, muscle and/or fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids, and it can help reduce or eliminate vision problems that are caused by excessive skin.
As we age, the skin of the eyelids stretches and the underlying muscle gets weaker. Excess fat may also accumulate above or below the eyelids, which can cause bags under the eyes or lead to droopy upper eyelids. When the skin and fat of the upper lids begins to sag excessively, it can impact vision, particularly the outer field of vision.
This procedure is generally performed as an outpatient surgery and it may be done while the patient is awake but sedated, or under general anesthesia. Along with having a very high patient satisfaction rate, blepharoplasty is also incredibly safe and effective. During surgery, the plastic surgeon will make incisions along the creases of the lids to carefully remove excess tissue before closing the incisions with small stitches.
The surgery itself takes about 30 minutes to two hours. Many patients experience blurry vision for the first few days. This is due to swelling, which is the result of edema in the cornea, which basically creates a poor contact lens over the eye initially. It may also be caused by dryness as a result of swelling, which prevents the lids from distributing tears evenly across the eyes. This is temporary and after a few days, normal vision will be restored along with improved field of vision.
Eyelid surgery is typically an affordable procedure that costs $3,000 to $4,000, on average. When required due to a medical reason, such as excessive skin that is impeding vision or sagging tissue that is so severe that it makes it difficult for the patient to open their eyes, it can also be covered by insurance, including Medicare.
While safe and effective, blepharoplasty does come with risks, as with any surgical procedure. These risks include dry eyes, or having difficulty closing your eyelids. The chance of complications is reduced for patients who are nonsmokers with no medical conditions or serious eye problems before surgery. Choosing a highly experienced plastic surgeon also reduces the risk for problems.
Dr. Andres Bustillo MD, FACS is a board certified Coral Gables facial plastic surgeon who specializes in blepharoplasty surgery as well as rhinoplasty and facelift surgery. Dr. Bustillo completed his advanced fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the New York University – Weill Cornell Medical College Fellowship Program, one of the most prestigious fellowship programs in the world. Along with his professional practice, Dr. Bustillo volunteers his time and skills with the Face to Face Foundation and the Faces of Honor.
Dr. Andres Bustillo
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
6705 Red Road #602
Coral Gables, FL 33143
305-663-3380
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