As you’re probably already aware, there are some surgeries and procedures covered by insurance and some that are not. In many cases, it comes down to whether the surgery is needed or required, as recommended by a doctor, or is instead something you’re choosing to do to enhance your appearance in some way.
Functional Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty surgery is the medical term for eyelid surgery, sometimes called an eyelid lift. When you talk about functional blepharoplasty, this is surgery performed on the eyelid due to medical issues, not because you’re unhappy about the way they look.
Functional eyelid lifts are typically done to improve vision. In many cases, the upper lid is drooping so much it’s actually covering part of the pupil, and your vision becomes impaired. If you’re dealing with this issue, you may find the excessively sagging lid obstructs your peripheral vision. It can cause other problems as well. Your skin may become irritated from the excess folds of skin rubbing against each other. You may feel like you cannot open your eye fully. Patients are often unaware of how much they’re straining and overusing those muscles in an effort to lift the sagging eyelids so they can see better
Each insurance carrier is different, and you’ll want to check with yours to be sure, but in most cases, functional blepharoplasty will be covered, if not fully, at least to some degree.
Cosmetic Blepharoplasty
When the appearance of your eyelids is the main concern, upper eyelid surgical treatment is referred to as a cosmetic blepharoplasty. This surgery is not required for medical reasons. Cosmetic eyelid lifts are performed for the sole reason of improving your appearance. Dr. Dawli specializes in both cosmetic and functional eyelid surgeries.
Aging can be at the core of causing your eyelid to sag or droop. The skin loses elasticity over time, so as we get older, our skin becomes looser. This loose skin is especially noticeable in and around the eye area and when it hangs and rests on your eyelashes. You may even notice some sagging of your eyebrows which can be treated at the same time.
All this loose, droopy skin and bags or dark circles beneath the eyes can cause you to constantly look tired, even when you’re not. It can also make you look years older than you actually are. Cosmetic blepharoplasty can get rid of droopy eyelids as well as the bags below the eyes. The result is a face that’s refreshed and more youthful in appearance.
The Last Word
If you aren’t sure whether you need a blepharoplasty procedure, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dawli. During your visit, she will review your concerns, examine your eyes, and discuss various options.
