Chicago Plastic Surgery | Eyelid Surgery FAQs

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Eyelid Surgery FAQs

Frequently Asked Blepharoplasty Questions

What is blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery, technically known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of excess fat, skin and muscle from the lower and upper eyelids. The procedure can provide the eye area with a more youthful and pleasing appearance. Eyelid surgery may also be performed to improve vision for patients who have excess drooping skin of the upper eyelids that is interfering with vision.

Does eyelid surgery require anesthesia?
Anesthesia is required for eyelid surgery, most commonly local anesthesia combined with sedation.

Where does eyelid surgery take place?
Eyelid surgery may take place in a surgeon's office-based facility, in an outpatient surgical center or in a hospital.

Is eyelid surgery an inpatient or outpatient procedure?
Eyelid surgery is most often performed as an outpatient procedure and does not require an overnight hospital stay.

Are there any scars after eyelid surgery?
The scars that result from eyelid surgery tend to be well concealed. The incisions are typically placed within the normal creases and folds of the eyelids.

Can eyelid surgery fix crow's feet or sagging brows?
The wrinkles around the eye and sagging eyebrows cannot be treated with eyelid surgery and are better treated with other procedures, such as a brow lift.

Can eyelid surgery fix dark circles under the eyes?
Dark under-eye circles may slightly improve with eyelid surgery, though other procedures like laser resurfacing and chemical peels are better able to treat this.

How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?
The results of eyelid surgery are generally long-lasting, and touch-up procedures are rarely ever needed.

Is eyelid surgery ever covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage is not available when eyelid surgery is performed solely for cosmetic purposes. Procedures may be covered to some degree when used to treat excess skin of the upper eyelids that is causing visual impairment.

When can I go back to work after eyelid surgery?
Bruising and swelling after eyelid surgery can be noticeable for at least seven to ten days. Nevertheless, patients often find that they can return to work within a few days after their procedure and some opt to wear makeup to conceal discoloration.

What kind of recovery does eyelid surgery involve?
Bruising and swelling can take between seven and ten days to fade enough for you to feel comfortable in public. Makeup can be worn to help conceal discoloration. Though patients can return to work within a few days, more rigorous activities should be avoided for at least a week.

When are the stitches removed after eyelid surgery?
Stitches are typically removed within three to five days after eyelid surgery.

Is financing available for eyelid surgery?
Plastic surgery procedures can often be financed and your plastic surgeon can provide you with more information.


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