At MedEye Associates, we know that the natural aging process can cause issues with your eyesight as well as with your eyelids and the skin surrounding your eyes. This can change the appearance of a person, making them look tired or stressed.
We have solutions to help treat these conditions so you can look as young as you feel!
Call us today for a consultation with one of our qualified ophthalmologists.
Cosmetic Eyelid Lifts
Drooping eyelids can be caused by stretching and increased laxity of the upper eyelid skin that is commonly seen in aging. Excess skin and puffiness (fat) in the upper or lower eyelids can create a tired or sad look for the person suffering from this condition. In severe cases, the drooping of the upper eyelids can cause vision loss by constricting the field of vision.
Cosmetic eyelid lifts are an eyelid surgery that can correct these conditions resulting in a more rested and youthful appearance. In certain cases, this surgery can even improve peripheral vision. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis with little to no discomfort following the procedure. Scarring is minimal and is easily concealed in the upper eyelid’s natural crease.
The Procedure
A cosmetic eyelid lift is an outpatient procedure that takes approximately 60 minutes. There is no need for general anesthesia. A mild sedative is administered to ensure that patients are totally comfortable and local anesthesia is then applied to the area.
Once the surgery is over, the patient should relax for the first two days. An antibiotic ointment and ice packs are applied for the first several days to promote healing and reduce any swelling. While there is swelling and tightness of skin associated with this procedure, around 70-80% of the swelling disappears within the first week. After two weeks, close to 90% of the swelling will have dissipated. Any bruising should resolve within three weeks.
If you are interested in this procedure, call us to schedule a consultation.
Blepharolplasty
Drooping eyelids can be caused by stretching and increased laxity of the upper eyelid skin that is commonly seen in aging. Excess skin and puffiness (fat) in the upper or lower eyelids can create a tired or sad look for the person suffering from this condition. In severe cases, the drooping of the upper eyelids can cause vision loss by constricting the field of vision.
Blepharoplasty is an eyelid surgery that can correct these conditions resulting in a more rested and youthful appearance. In certain cases, blepharoplasty can even improve peripheral vision. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis with little to no discomfort following the procedure. Scarring is minimal and is easily concealed in the upper eyelid’s natural crease.
Blepharoplasty can be covered by insurance, if specific criteria are met. If your eyelids hinder your eyesight, a skilled ophthalmologist can perform simple tests to determine the degree of vision loss and inform you if you are eligible under your insurance policy. It’s important to note that only a trained ophthalmologist can perform and interpret these necessary tests. If you feel you may be a good candidate covered under insurance, please call us for a consultation.
The Procedure
A blepharoplasty procedure is an outpatient procedure that takes approximately 60 minutes. There is no need for general anesthesia. A mild sedative is administered to ensure that patients are totally comfortable and local anesthesia is then applied to the area.
Once the surgery is over, the patient should relax for the first two days. An antibiotic ointment and ice packs are applied for the first several days to promote healing and reduce any swelling. While there is swelling and tightness of skin associated with this procedure, around 70-80% of the swelling disappears within the first week. After two weeks, close to 90% of the swelling will have dissipated. Any bruising should resolve within three weeks.
If you are interested in this procedure, call us to schedule a consultation.
Ptosis ( Droopy Eyelids)
The condition of ptosis is also known as droopy eyelids. This condition is usually due to a loosening of a muscle and tendon that holds your eyelid in position. When this happens, your eyelid droops further down your eye. This often blocks part of the visual field and limits how much a person can see. Because ptosis may affect your visual field, often insurance will cover treatment.
The treatment to raise a droopy eyelid is traditionally performed as an outpatient procedure.
Surgery can treat ptosis by tightening the levator, or eyelid-lifting muscle.
Immediately after surgery, it may be difficult to completely close the eye, but this is only temporary. Lubricant eye drops and ointment are helpful during this period.
Although surgery usually improves the height of the lid, both eyelids may still not appear perfectly symmetrical. In some cases, more than one operation may be required. In rare cases, full eyelid movement does not return.
If you have ptosis and would like to discuss your options, please call us to schedule an exam.
Ectropion Repair
Ectropion happens when your lower eyelid turns out, which is the result of the weakening of the connectivity muscles. It can also happen as a result of facial palsy, from a previous eye injury or surgery, or from a defect that happens prior to birth.
The most obvious symptom of this condition is they eyelid turning out. Additional symptoms include dry, painful eyes, excess tearing of the eye, and redness of the lid and white part of the eye.
Immediate treatment of this condition is prescription eye drops to keep the eye hydrated. Surgery can be performed to correct the loose muscles. The surgery is an outpatient procedure which may require local anesthesia or an IV, depending upon the severity of the condition.
The surgeon may remove part of the lower lid, which will tighten the muscles of the lid. Stitches are necessary and an eye patch should be worn for 24 hours after the surgery. You will be prescribed an antibiotic ointment as well, to prevent infection.
If you think you may be suffering from ectropion, call us for a consultation.
Entropion Repair
Entropion occurs when the edge of the eyelid, usually the lower eyelid, turns in and the eyelashes rub against the eye. This can happen when the eyelid muscles spam. Entropion can cause vision problems if the eyelashes scratch or damage the cornea in any way. It may also cause pain, irritation, excessive tearing, and redness.
Treatment for entropion includes artifical tears and surgery. Depending upon the cause of the entropion, either removal of part of the eyelid or a skin graft to the eyelid may be necessary. Only a qualified ophthalmologist can make that determination.
If you are suffering from entropion, call our office for a treatment consultation today.
Call us today for an evaluation or to see if you qualify to participate in one of our cutting edge clinical trials.