Though eyelid surgery is often considered a cosmetic procedure, there are some instances when blepharoplasty is medically necessary. In these cases, our eye skillful eye surgeons can help.
If your eyelids are interfering with your vision, call (845) EYE-CARE today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced eye surgeons. We perform medically necessary eyelid surgery for patients throughout Poughkeepsie & Yorktown Heights, Dutchess County, Yorktown and nearby Hudson Valley areas.
When Is Blepharoplasty Medically Necessary?
Blepharoplasty is a procedure that refers to the removal of excess skin from the eyelids. Eyelid surgery may be considered medically necessary if your vision is being compromised due to sagging or drooping lids. If excess skin is merely a cosmetic concern and you wish only to improve your appearance, your blepharoplasty will not be considered medically necessary and will be more aptly performed at a cosmetic surgery facility that can better address your unique cosmetic concerns.
You may benefit from medical blepharoplasty, also known as functional blepharoplasty, if:
- You have difficulty performing visual field related activities such as driving or reading due to visual impairments caused by drooping eyelids
- You have overhanging eyelid skin that rests on the lashes and pushes them into your visual-field impairing your vision
To determine whether or not drooping or sagging lids are impairing your eyesight, our eye care specialists will conduct a visual field exam. If blepharoplasty is deemed medically necessary for the sake of maintaining optimal vision, the procedure may be covered by insurance, however this will depend on the type of coverage you have and level of benefits provided by your insurance carrier. At Seeta Eye we provide a variety of financing options to help you manage any out-of-pocket costs, including co-payments and deductibles.
How Should I Prepare For Blepharoplasty?
Before eyelid surgery, you will need to stop taking medications, herbs, and supplements that thin the blood. If you are a tobacco user, you will also need to stop using any products that contain nicotine. These steps will reduce risks and help improve your healing response.
It is a good idea to wear comfortable clothing on the day of your procedure and to have a space at home already prepared for you to rest and recover. We will provide specific instructions based on things unique to your lifestyle during your time in our care.
What is the Blepharoplasty Recovery Process Like?
Some swelling and bruising are to be expected in the days following eyelid surgery. Keeping incisions clean, head elevated, and using compresses can assist with these things. Swelling may also be shortened by taking frequent walks, which helps to increase blood flow.
Most people can resume non-strenuous work within one to two weeks, though it may be four to six before you are cleared for more advanced activities. We will assess your progress during your follow-up visits to help you decide when it is safe to resume different activities.
What are the Risks of Eyelid Surgery?
General surgical risks include excessive bleeding, infection, and poor reaction to anesthesia. These risks are reduced by following all of our pre and post-operative instructions.
Risks specific to blepharoplasty include dry eyes, an inability to close the eyelids, and poor or asymmetrical results. These risks are reduced when you choose to work with a board-certified ophthalmologist for your surgical procedure.
Will There be Visible Scars from Eyelid Surgery?
Incisions for eyelid surgery are carefully placed in the natural folds of the eyelids. We take great care in the placement of these incisions to help avoid noticeable scars following recovery.
Nicotine, blood thinners, and poor incision care will all increase the risk of thick and noticeable scars. Avoiding these things and following all of our directions will significantly reduce your risks.
Is Eyelid Surgery Covered by Insurance?
If blepharoplasty is deemed medically necessary by an ophthalmologist, it may be covered by insurance. The procedure has both cosmetic and functional benefits, making it one of the extremely rare aesthetic procedures covered by some insurance plans.
As with anything insurance-related, it is best to check with your plan administrator before relying on insurance to cover a procedure. We work with CareCredit® for patient financing and also accept cash, check, and money order as forms of payment. We can discuss all of your options and help you choose the most suitable one during your initial consultation.
Contact Seeta Eye Center Today
If you are a resident of Poughkeepsie & Yorktown Heights, Yorktown, Dutchess County or nearby Hudson Valley areas and you think eyelid surgery can improve your vision, please contact Seeta Eye at (845) EYE-CARE today.
