What are the different types of eyelid surgery?
Choosing to have an eyelid surgery, also know as a blepharoplasty, is a big decision that can make an even bigger impact on your life. There are actually multiple types of surgeries that can be preformed depending on your unique circumstances. What is important to know, is that there are many medical conditions that can cause problems with the upper and lower lids. The good news is, these medical conditions can be diagnosed during a consult with one of our eye surgeons who perform oculoplastic surgery- surgical procedures that involve the eye and its surroundings.
The two main eyelid surgeries are for the upper eyelids or the lower eyelids that are preformed the most frequently. Additionally, there are four other procedures that fall under this category that are less common:
Brow Pexy- Brow pexy is a cosmetic procedure in which a permanent stitch is placed at the arch of the eyebrow to keep the eyebrow lifted. This gives a very subtle lift to the eyebrow without any external scarring and further enhances the longevity of the upper eyelid lift results. This is usually performed as a cosmetic addition at the same time as an upper lid blepharoplasty.
Ptosis Repair- Ptosis is a medical eyelid condition of the upper lid most commonly due to weakness of the levator muscle and its attachment to the tarsal plate in the upper lid. This can be corrected by a surgical procedure in which a permanent stitch is placed in the upper lid to reattach the levator muscle to the tarsal plate. Of note, this condition can be caused by other life-threatening medical conditions such as Myasthenia Gravis, which can be checked with a simple blood test.
Entropion Repair- Entropion is a medical eyelid condition of the eyelid turning inward with resultant eyelashes scratching the eye. This condition usually occurs in the lower lid and is correctable with a surgical procedure to restore the natural architecture of the lower lid and prevent the eyelid from rolling inward.
Ectropion Repair- Ectropion is a medical eyelid condition of the eyelid turning outward, this condition usually occurs in the lower lid and is a result of lower eyelid laxity. This usually results in significant dry eye that can cause permanent scarring of the cornea and poor vision. It is correctable with a surgical procedure to restore the natural architecture of the lower lid and prevent the eyelid from sagging.
What is an upper eyelid surgery?
An upper eyelid surgery is also known as an upper eyelid lift or an upper blepharoplasty. These three names are generally interchangeable as they all refer to the same thing. The upper eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure to reduce loose or excess skin found in the upper lid crease. This can reduce the weight of the upper eyelid and remove upper eyelid hooding. These two things can have the benefits of:
Making it easier to keep the eyes open
Improving the peripheral vision
Giving a more youthful, awake appearance
To achieve these results, an incision is made within the crease of the eyelid. Having the incision placed here results in no visible scar. This procedure is performed with a CO2 laser, which minimizes bruising and swelling, with a resulting faster recovery time. Historically a scalpel was used to make the incision. This advancement in technology is not yet adopted by all oculoplastic surgeons, but is the preferred method at Perich Eye. We find that for our Florida patients who are in the sun all year round, the faster recovery time and minimized bruising and swelling provides a better experience all around.
What is a lower eyelid surgery?
A lower eyelid surgery likewise has multiple names: lower lid blepharoplasty or lower eyelid lift. A lower eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure to reduce the puffiness of the lower eyelids- or bags under the eyes. In patients that have excess sagging skin in the lower eyelid, a small incision can made at the eyelash line to then remove that excess skin. The benefits of a lower eyelid surgery can result in:
Reduced under eye bags
Smoothing out of the skin under the eye
Removal of dark circles under the eyes
A more refreshed, rested appearance
The entire procedure is performed with a CO2 laser, which minimizes bruising and swelling, which results in a faster recovery time. The incision is made on the inside of the eyelid so there is no external visible scar once the eyelid surgery has completely healed.
It is very important to note that lower lid blepharoplasty is a very specialized surgical procedure and should only be performed by highly trained surgeons who have specific knowledge of the eyelid anatomy. If not performed correctly, significant scarring and deformity to the lower lid can occur.
The area around your eyes have so many intricacies that no matter which eyelid surgery you are considering, you want to make sure that you work with an experienced oculoplastic surgeon, whether you are having the procedure done here in Florida or elsewhere. At Perich Eye, we have multiple convenient locations around central Florida to serve you best. Our staff would be happy to have a consultation with you to go over all your options for your eyes specifically. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
