Cosmetic & Medical Eyelid Surgery

What is Cosmetic & Medical Eyelid Surgery ?

Eyelid surgery is performed in order to improve the function and appearance of the eyelids.

Why do People need/ want to have Eyelid Surgery ?

Medical eyelid surgery is used to reposition or reshape the eyelids back to a more functional position/ shape.

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is performed on eyelids that function normally but are not as attractive as the patient would desire.

Medical and Cosmetic eyelid surgery is by no means exclusive. In every case, medical eyelid surgery is performed in a manner so as to improve the cosmetics of the patient.

Who needs Medical Eyelid Surgery ?

When the eyelids are out of position in such as way as to not correctly perform their primary function of protecting and lubricating the eye, then it is time to perform eyelid surgery. Also, when the upper eyelid begins to droop so much as to block the superior visual field or become cosmetically unattractive, it is time to consider eyelid surgery.

Will Insurance Pay for Eyelid Surgery ?

Medical insurance will pay for medically necessary eyelid surgery. You will meet personally with Dr. Phillip Gabriele who will evaluate you and obtain preliminary visual field tests and photographs to determine if your condition will be covered.

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is usually not covered by medical insurance plans. However, the costs are probably more affordable than you might guess and attractive financing plans are available at the Gabriele Eye Institute.

What is Eyelid Surgery Like ?

Eyelid surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and takes approximately 15-20 minutes per eyelid. Sedation is used and there is no pain during the procedure.

Afterward there may be some discomfort but this almost never needs the use of narcotics and can usually be handled with Tylenol and ice packs. Even though the size of the incision is kept to a minimum there will usually be some bruising and swelling after surgery. You should avoid aspirin containing compounds and anti-inflammatory medications prior to surgery to keep this to a minimum. Applying ice packs post-operatively is very helpful. The bruising usually clears up within one week and you can resume normal activities in 1-2 days.