Eyelid Surgery
Description
Corrects sagging, puffy or drooping eyelids, as well as bags and bulges above and below the eyes. This condition is caused when fat forces its way through layers of muscles. If surgery is used to correct visual field defects, upper-eyelid surgery may be covered by medical insurance.
Length
1 to 3 hours for both eyelids.
Side Effects
Temporary tightness of eyelids, swelling, bruising, burning and itching. Also, excessive tearing and sensitivity to light for first few weeks.
Recovery
Eyelids may feel tight and sore as the anesthesia wears off; however, any discomfort can be controlled with oral pain medication. Reading: 2 or 3 days. Back to work: 7 to 10 days. Contact lenses: 2 weeks or more. Strenuous activities and alcohol: about 3 weeks. Bruising and swelling gone: several weeks.
Risks
Temporary blurred or double vision, infection, bleeding, swelling at the corners of the eyelids, dry eyes, formation of whiteheads. Also, slight asymmetry in healing or scarring, difficulty in closing eyes completely (rarely permanent) or pulling down of the lower lids (may require further surgery).
Results
Lasts for several years. Sometimes permanent.
