Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty has become one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed today. In 2013, the number of eyelid surgeries performed was only surpassed by breast augmentation and nose reshaping, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. If you are considering eyelid surgery for cosmetic or functional reasons, there are a few questions to ask before you move forward with your procedure.
Am I a Good Candidate?
The best blepharoplasty candidates are men and women in reasonably good health with drooping upper or lower eyelids that are interfering with their appearance and possibly their line of vision. Patients should have realistic expectations about the outcome of their procedure and be prepared for a recovery period after surgery.
What are the Benefits?
Eyelid surgery is a customizable treatment that offers a number of benefits. First, excess tissue and skin can be removed from the upper lid, giving you a refreshed, more awake appearance. Lower eyelid surgery can smooth the area under the eye, eliminating puffiness and fine lines. Significant droop to the lid can interfere with your vision and surgery can also remove that obstacle.
What Type of Anesthesia will be used?
In most cases, local anesthesia can be used for eyelid surgery, which carries less risk and offers a shorter recovery period. If you are having more than one procedure at the same time as your eyelid surgery, general anesthesia might be a preferable option.
What will Recovery be like?
Recovery from eyelid surgery may be shorter than you expect, but there is still an amount of rest and healing that must take place to ensure the best possible results. By asking about the recovery process prior to your procedure, you can take the necessary steps to prepare for your recovery before your surgery. Know what restrictions you will be facing and how long you need to have someone care for you after your procedure.
Will Insurance Cover my Procedure?
Blepharoplasty that is performed for strictly cosmetic purposes is usually not covered by insurance policies. However, if the eyelid surgery will improve your vision, your insurance company may indeed cover at least a portion of the procedure. Ask your plastic surgeon about the possibility of insurance coverage and get the necessary approval from your insurance carrier so that the billing and insurance process goes as smoothly as possible.
Eyelid surgery is an effective way to refresh a tired face and create a more youthful appearance. At New York Group for Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of techniques in eyelid surgery to tailor your procedure to your specific needs. To learn more, contact New York Group for Plastic Surgery at one of our locations: New York City at 888-834-2075 or Tarrytown at 914-366-6139.
