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Blepharospasm FAQ

• What is a blepharoplasty?

  A blepharoplasty is removal of excess fat or skin around the eyelids, via a laser-assisted incision, sometimes referred to as an eyelid lift.

• What causes “bags” around the eyes?

  There is usually a genetic tendency for “full” eyelids. With time, loss of elasticity and gravity results in sagging of the eyelid skin. Weakening of a tissue barrier called the orbital septum allows the fat already in the eye socket to bulge forward.

• Does insurance cover the cost?

  If a significant loss of superior visual field is present from excess upper lid skin, most insurance companies will pay part or all of the cost. Photographs are taken and visual field testing is performed to document the problem. Lower lid surgery is typically considered cosmetic and is not usually covered. Depending on whether you combine a blepharoplasty with other surgeries, there may be an anesthesia fee and a facility fee (depending on the location of your surgery). The only additional cost is the medications you will need to purchase from your pharmacy.

• Payment?

  A 20% non-refundable deposit is due when the surgery is scheduled. The remaining balance is due two weeks prior to surgery. We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and Care Credit.

• How do I prepare?

  Stop Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Advil, fish oil, Vitamin E, Coumadin (Warfarin), and any other blood thinner for two weeks prior to surgery. Have frozen peas or ice packs in the freezer for use after surgery. You may also choose to purchase Arnica Montana, an herb which reduces bruising, and use as instructed. This can be purchased from our office, please ask for details.

• What kind of anesthesia is used?

  Most patients will tolerate a two-eyelid surgery well with local anesthesia (injectable numbing block). Some prefer the added comfort of IV anesthesia, particularly with upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasties. This is directly arranged with a certified nurse anesthetist experienced with cosmetic procedures. The cost of anesthesia depends on the surgery duration and a quote will be given to you before you schedule your procedure (this can increase if you opt to combine surgeries).

• Is a blepharoplasty painful?

  If IV sedation is used, you will not feel the injections of lidocaine. Otherwise, you will experience a few seconds of burning, similar to what you experience with dental blocks. Minimal discomfort is usually experienced during the actual procedure.

• How long will it take?

  Upper eyelids take approximately 45 minutes. Lower eyelids are typically 45-60 minutes.

• Will I be patched?

  Small patches will be placed over the eyelids but will not obstruct your vision. These patches can be removed the morning after surgery.

• Are there stitches?

  Stitches will be used on the upper eyelids and will need to be removed 7-8 days after surgery. Lower eyelids do not require stitches unless skin is removed.

• What will my recovery be like?

  Generally, you may return to work after 3-5 days after surgery and use make-up/skincare products after your 1-week post-op appointment. This timeline can vary depending on your body’s healing and recovery rate.

• When are the follow-up appointments?

  Most patients are seen at 7-8 days and at 1 month after surgery.

• What are the risks?

  Infection is possible but rare. Bruising often occurs and lasts 1-2 weeks. A scar will be present with upper eyelid surgery. It usually fades to become a faint white line and is hidden in the eyelid creases.