Eyelid Surgery FAQs

Conveniently located to serve Arcadia, CA

Dr. Jen Chow welcomes questions about the services offered at our practice, especially about eyelid surgery. From signs you may need surgery to the latest techniques, Dr. Chow provides insights to help you make informed choices.

1. What Are the Signs That I Might Need Eyelid Surgery?

Various signs can signal that it’s time to talk about undergoing eyelid surgery with Dr. Chow. You may notice more obvious drooping eyelids, puffy skin, unwanted eye bags, and even fine lines and excess skin around the lower eyelids.

2. How Does Age Affect the Decision and Outcome of Eyelid Surgery?

While our skin is affected by age, other factors contribute to issues around the eyelids. Every person’s genetics are going to be slightly different than the next. One may be more prone to developing sagging eyelids earlier in life than another. Typically, eyelid surgery is recommended for patients who are between their 30s and 60s.

3. Is Eyelid Surgery Covered by Insurance?

As with any type of cosmetic surgery, it must be deemed medically necessary for your insurance to cover its cost. Having this surgery to reduce puffy eyes or remove fine lines doesn’t qualify you for insurance coverage. However, if you’re having trouble seeing due to your droopy upper eyelid, this can be perceived as a medical reason, and your insurance will likely cover the surgery.

4. How Long Do the Results of Eyelid Surgery Last?

As with any type of cosmetic surgery, it’s important to remember that your body is still naturally aging even after the surgery. These natural effects can alter the outcome of your surgery over time. In most cases, upper eyelid surgery is expected to last around 10 years. On the other hand, lower eyelid surgery tends to be more permanent as it typically involves removing fat cells.

5. Can Eyelid Surgery Improve Vision, and If So, How?

When there’s excess skin, muscle, and fat in the upper eyelid, it causes the eyelid to obstruct some of your field of vision. This, in turn, affects your ability to see things clearly. Undergoing eyelid surgery to fix these issues associated with your upper eyelid can lead to enhanced vision since you’ll be able to restore your line of sight.

6. What Are the Differences Between Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery?

In general, upper eyelid surgery is all about removing excess skin that weighs down the upper eyelid. Lower eyelid surgery is all about removing excess fat that causes puffiness underneath the eye. Depending on your individual needs, you can opt for either surgery or a combination of both to improve the overall appearance of your eyes.

7. What is the Recovery Process Like After Eyelid Surgery?

Directly after your eyelid procedure, you’ll likely experience some discomfort in the treatment area. This can include swelling, itching, dryness, wetness, sensitivity to light, soreness, and even blurred vision. Your cosmetic surgeon will prescribe you medications to help manage the pain during your recovery process.

You can expect to have swelling around your eyes for between one and three weeks. Most people will return to work within 10-14 days following their procedure. It can take between one and three months for you to see the final result of your eyelid surgery.

8. What Are the Latest Advancements in Eyelid Surgery Techniques?

One of the newest innovations for this type of surgery is the Lid Lift Goggle. This specialized goggle is positioned on the orbital rim directly after a patient undergoes eyelid surgery. The constant pressure helps to minimize capillary leakage, leading to less bruising and swelling. Moreover, the outer rim of this specialized goggle has a cooling foam that helps to further minimize swelling and reduce discomfort post-procedure.

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