What is Eyelid Rejuvenation?

Eyelid Rejuvenation or Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. As we age, the eyelid skin, just like other skin on the body, loses its elasticity and stretches. The orbital septum (the membrane that holds the normal fat that cushions the eye back) also loosens allowing the fat to come forward making the eyelid look heavy and bulky. Age and heredity are the main causes; however, sun exposure, poor nutrition, seasonal allergies, manipulation of the eyelids during makeup removal or excessive stretching during contact lens insertion and removal also contribute to the problem. If your droopy upper eyelids are interfering with your vision, your medical insurance may help cover the cost.

What is Ptosis?

Ptosis is a condition when one eyelid is lower than the other or even both eyelids can appear droopy. Not to be confused with removing excess skin and fatty tissue as in a Blepharoplasty procedure, the lid itself is actually lower than it should be. This can happen on one or both eyelids. It gives the appearance of being tired and may even interfere with your vision.

There are many causes of ptosis including age-related weakening of the muscle (the most common cause), congenital weakness, trauma, or sometimes neurological disease. The Levator muscle (the muscle that lifts the eyelid) can stretch and cause the eyelid to fall. Children may be born with ptosis or may acquire it due to trauma or from neurological reasons. Ptosis Repair surgery is generally covered by your medical insurance if the eyelid is interfering with your vision. It is done in our own ambulatory surgery center and generally takes 20-40 minutes.