Everything You Should Know About the Two Types of Eyelid Surgery

It is no secret that many people develop fine lines and wrinkles around their eyes. These develop for a variety of reasons and can negatively affect a person’s self-esteem and even their vision. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is an effective way to address these areas of concern. Here is what you should know.

Everything You Should Know About the Two Types of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery can focus on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on the type of surgery that is performed. In general, there are two different types of eyelid surgery that you may consider.

Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Cosmetic upper eyelid surgery focuses on tightening muscles that have relaxed in the upper eye area and reduce the excess skin. Cosmetic blepharoplasty helps correct sagging and wrinkles by tightening the upper eyelid area.

Lower eyelid surgery helps with undereye droopiness by tightening the lower lids and smoothing the skin to create a more youthful appearance. While performing the lower eyelid blepharoplasty, a plastic surgeon can also remove the fatty deposits under the eye to reduce puffiness.

Functional Eyelid Surgery

Functional eyelid surgery differs from cosmetic blepharoplasty because it is often performed to correct a medical issue or problem that negatively impacts how your eye works. Typically, functional blepharoplasty is focused on the upper eyelids to correct a patient’s vision. As the eyelids sag, it can block the field of vision and make it difficult for patients to see. Eyelid surgery lifts the eyelids while opening the eyes, ensuring patients can see clearly and without obstructions.

Functional blepharoplasty can also be performed to relieve forehead pain. People who strain their brows due to sagging or heavy skin around the upper eyes benefit from eyelid surgery because it lightens the forehead load and alleviates the pain.

Irritation can happen when the skin of droopy eyelids rubs together. Some people elect to go with functional eyelid surgery to fix this issue.

Is Eyelid Surgery Right for You?

Eyelid surgery is an effective way to improve your vision and reverse signs of aging. If you would like to see if this surgery is right for you, contact our specialists at UMASS Memorial Medical Group to schedule a consultation by calling (508) 334-5990. Our experts can meet with you at our office in Worcester, MA, to discuss your concerns and determine whether this surgery can help.