San Diego eyelid surgery
Here at North County Laser Eye Associates, we’re committed to improving people’s vision. Although laser vision correction and cataract surgery are the most common procedures we perform, we also offer other forms of treatment that can help to save or improve a person’s vision. In fact, sometimes a vision problem doesn’t originate in the eye itself, but in the tissues around the eye.
Drooping eyelids can interfere with vision
As people age, the tissues lose their elasticity. This is why wrinkles form, and the skin begins to droop and sag. Although this is primarily a cosmetic issue for most parts of the body, it can actually have more serious consequences when the eyelids are drooping. This is because sagging eyelid tissue can fall over the eyes and block part of the visual field. The person may then have trouble seeing, especially in the upper part of their vision.
Although this can be a frustrating condition, there is fortunately a simple procedure that can make a big difference for many patients.
A simple procedure called blepharoplasty can help
In order to restore vision, a procedure can be performed to remove excess tissue from the eyelid, allowing a full visual field again. The technical term for this procedure is blepharoplasty.
The procedure can be done under local anesthesia. The incisions for tissue removal are made in the fold of the eyelid. After making the incision, the surgeon removes the excess skin. Sometimes, excess amounts of other tissues (such as fat and muscle) also need to be removed. The incision is then closed. The resulting scar will slowly fade over the next months, and will generally be well hidden in the eyelid fold so that it will not be noticeable under normal circumstances.
It’s important that this procedure be performed by an expert, because the right amount of tissue must be removed to give a good result. The removal of too much tissue from the eyelids could cause complications. However, if not enough tissue is removed, then the patient’s vision will not be fully restored. As a surgeon specializing in the eye area, Dr. Chen has successfully performed this procedure for many patients, and has the extensive knowledge and skills required to get great results for his patients.
Will insurance cover eyelid surgery?
Some people do choose to have blepharoplasty performed solely for cosmetic reasons. In this case, insurance will generally not cover the procedure. However, if you’re having your blepharoplasty performed because the drooping eyelids are interfering with your vision, then insurance will usually provide coverage for the procedure. You will need an exam by an eye doctor to verify that your eyelids are causing symptoms. (We can perform this exam here in the office.)
If you need help in determining your insurance coverage, please ask our friendly front desk staff for assistance. We can contact your insurance company and help to clarify this for you.
Do you have concerns about drooping eyelids? Considering San Diego eyelid surgery?
If you’re experiencing any concerns about your eyelids, please come in for a consultation with Dr. Chen. After meeting with you and performing a thorough exam, he will talk with you about whether blepharoplasty would be a good option for you, or what other options you might have for improving your vision. Please contact our office to book an appointment.
