Bothered by Sagging Eyelids? Consider Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of the most common facial surgeries. Since the area around the eye is the first to show signs of aging, it makes sense that an eyelid lift can freshen your appearance and take years off of your looks.

Our eye health specialists at Ventura Eye Institute in Camarillo, California, are here to help you with vision issues. We provide upper and lower eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, for both medically indicated and cosmetic reasons.

Blepharoplasty basics

Blepharoplasty is for the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. Your doctor carefully makes tiny incisions hidden in the folds of your eyelids and excises fatty tissue and excess skin. Then they seal your eyelid back together, and in a few weeks, you’ll be better than new.

Once surgery is complete, you’ll notice that formerly hooded eyes now look alert and clear-sighted. The area directly under your eye will look smoother and tighter, with less sagging and bagging for a less tired appearance.

When to consider blepharoplasty

There are several reasons to consider eyelid surgery.

Your upper eyelids obstruct your vision

As you age, your skin becomes less elastic. Your eyelids can stretch and flop over, in some cases, far enough to hang down over your field of vision. Upper eyelid surgery reshapes your eyelids to fold properly above your eye, not over it, and restores a more youthful look.

Your lower eyelids puddle down into bags

If you have big bags under your eyes, sagging lower eyelids are to blame. Again, aging and stretching allow the excess skin to stretch and sag, giving you a permanently tired and frazzled look. Lower eyelid surgery smooths and tightens the lower eyelids for a more rested appearance.

Additional considerations

Depending on the cause of your surgery, your insurance may or may not cover some of the cost.

Medical issues

Loss of vision due to sagging upper eyelids is often considered a medical reason for eyelid surgery. In these cases, you’ll have to go through one or more exams to show that the sagging eyelids are obstructing vision. Your upper eyelid surgery may be covered under your insurance plan if it’s for medical reasons. 

Cosmetic issues

Sagging lower eyelids are typically considered a cosmetic issue. This means that your insurance probably won’t cover it as a medically required procedure. However, you may still want upper eyelid surgery. In such cases, you can talk to your doctor about your concerns and how to fit blepharoplasty into your budget.

Sagging lower lids or heavy bags under your eyes can affect your aesthetic and your self-confidence. Severe cases of drooping upper lids can even obstruct your vision. Call 805-388-1211 or visit the contact page for more options to schedule an appointment at Ventura Eye Institute.