Upper Eyelid Surgery

Sometimes the upper eyelids can begin to sag and become hooded over the eye. An incision is made in the natural crease of the eyelid and excess skin can be removed. If there are deposits of fat, they may be removed as well to complete the reduction of the upper eyelid.

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Occasionally the lower eyelids can accrue extra tissue and fat resulting in large puffy bags under the eyes. During lower eyelid surgery, Dr. Banich will make an incision at the base of the eyelashes or on the inside of the lower lid and remove the extra tissue and skin to reduce or eliminate the bloated lower lids.

Only as much as necessary. If too much is removed the eyes can look hollow and sunken. Some fat or muscle may be removed if there is excess, but only enough will be eliminated to give a more vibrant appearance.

If you have drooping eyelids and are physically healthy with no serious eye conditions, you may be a good candidate for this type of procedure. It is also important to have a positive outlook with realistic objectives.

Yes! During eyelid surgery, the brow can be lifted and the area between the brows can be smoothed out. This results in a complete fresh new look above the cheekbones.

You will receive anesthesia for overall comfort during the procedure. Dr. Banich will go over anesthesia options and recommend the best type for the procedure.

Dr. Banich will make an incision on either the upper or lower lid. The scars are designed to be hidden in the natural creases of the eye. He will then remove excess fat and skin and tighten or reposition the underlying muscle. The incision is then closed.

Recovery may differ depending on the type of eyelid surgery you have. Each person and circumstance is different, so the following recovery details are a guideline and may not be what the doctor recommends.

Eyelid surgery patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and/or eye irritation following their procedure. Lubricating ointment and cooling pads might be applied to the eyes and the eyes may be lightly covered in gauze.

It is imperative that you wear dark-colored sunglasses and practice good eye protection until the wound completely heals. Some patients may have difficulty closing their eyes after upper eyelid surgery, but this will diminish as the incision sites heal.

You will receive specific information regarding:

• How to treat the incision sites
• Any medications that should be taken and how to take them safely
• Anything that you would need to look for or be concerned about at the site of the incision or for overall well-being
• When to schedule any follow-up appointments

Dr. Banich will also be available to answer any questions regarding specific recovery questions you might have.

Insurance may pay for blepharoplasty if the lid is impairing the eye or vision. If the hooded lid is blocking vision, some insurance companies may require a vision test to show that the vision is impaired and that raising the eyelid helps the field of vision.

If the lower lid is drooping and causing eye irritation and watering, insurance may cover the repair as well. Most insurance companies require documentation and photographs to show that the restoration is medically necessary.

If the procedure is purely cosmetic with no medical necessity, insurance companies will not pay. If you are seeking to simply rejuvenate your appearance, then the procedure is considered cosmetic. During your consultation appointment, Dr. Banich will evaluate the upper and lower eyelids to be treated and advise on whether these would be medical or cosmetic procedures.

You should look for a surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who has completed an accredited medical school program and residency in plastic surgery.