Eyelid Surgery
Lash Ptosis Repair (Functional Blepharoplasty)
When heavy upper eyelid skin drapes across the eyelid margin and blocks vision, this is considered a functional problem. Patients often report that heavy upper eyelids can cause difficulty with driving and working. When the skin hangs across the eyelids and blocks the superior fields of vision, surgery can be performed to correct the problem. Patients report improved vision and comfort levels. Bilateral upper eyelid-lash ptosis repair is considered a functional surgery by most insurance carriers. When the eyelids hang across the eyelid margin and the vision is affected, then this surgery is covered by insurance.
Entropion
Entropion of the lower eyelids is an in-turning of the eyelid margin. Eyelashes along the lower eyelid margin may come into contact with the cornea and cause a foreign body sensation. Eyelid entropion is caused by a broken muscle tendon in the lower eyelid, along with horizontal eyelid laxity. When entropion occurs, it often requires surgical correction. The surgical correction of lower eyelid entropion is an outpatient procedure which usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The success of this surgery is quite high.
Ectropion
Ectropion of the lower eyelid is caused when the eyelid stretches and falls away from the eyeball. Patients with ectropion of the lower eyelid often complain of ocular redness, tearing and discomfort. With age, the horizontal length of the lower eyelid increases. With enough stretching, the stability of the lower eyelid is lost and ectropion can occur.
The correction of ectropion is a relatively simple outpatient procedure that lasts about 15 minutes. The procedure consists of shortening or tightening of the eyelid, which allows it to fit snugly against the eyeball in its normal anatomic position. Patients report increased comfort and less tearing following this reconstructive procedure.