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Eyelid Surgery

The thin, delicate skin around the eyes is subject to many stressors, specifically environmental damage and repeated squinting and facial expressions. This can leave lasting effects such as wrinkles and sagging.

Some people may be more prone to sagging eyelids, which can actually impair vision in some individuals. Dr. Eric Meyer offers both aesthetic and functional eyelid surgery in Durango to Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona patients at Four Corners Eye Clinic.

Conditions We Treat

Aesthetic Concerns

Age-related changes and pre-existing aesthetic concerns can typically be easily remedied with surgery. Typically, incisions are made within the natural contours of the eyelid for a very discreet scar. This approach can smooth and tighten sagging or wrinkled eyelids as well as reducing fat deposits that cause puffiness.

Ptosis

More commonly referred to as “sagging,” ptosis can affect the upper or lower eyelids. In extreme cases, it can cause irritation or visual disturbances. Ptosis that affects only one eye is often more noticeable and can lead to feelings of embarrassment. Your surgeon tailors the details of your surgery based on the underlying cause of your ptosis.

Lesions

Lesions that develop on the eyelids can be distressing, even if they’re benign. Styes, skin tags, tumors, and other growths can usually be removed with minimal scarring.

Trichiasis

This uncomfortable condition is characterized by eyelashes that grow inward, eventually brushing against the surface of the eye and causing irritation. Although this isn’t usually a sight-threatening condition, the constant irritation usually encourages patients to seek treatment rather quickly. Trichiasis has many different causes and is most common in adults. Conditions and events that can lead to trichiasis include:

• Eye trauma or injury
• Severe eye infections
• Autoimmune conditions
• Blepharitis, a chronic inflammation of the eyelids
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a rare condition that can be a reaction to certain medications

Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may remove the offending lash in the office. More severe cases will likely require surgical intervention.

Muscle Spasms

While an occasional twitchy eyelid is usually related to acute stress or lack of quality sleep, a chronic muscle spasm in this area can cause long-term frustration. For these cases, we typically recommend BOTOX® Cosmetic. While this injectable treatment is a popular wrinkle smoother in the cosmetic world, it’s also noted for its medical indications. BOTOX is commonly used to reduce symptoms caused by a spastic muscle, such as an overactive bladder. At Four Corners Eye Clinic, we use it for ophthalmic indications, most notably the treatment of eyelid or facial twitch.

Blepharoplasty Recovery

After functional or cosmetic blepharoplasty, the patient will return home under the care of an adult friend or family member. Patients receive post-op instructions that will include applying ice packs and keeping the head elevated.

Recovery Timeline

While experiences vary, eyelid surgery recovery generally progresses along the following timeline:

• 3 to 7 days: Sutures removed.
• 1 week: Swelling and bruising peak.
• 1 to 2 weeks: Return to work, school, and other nonstrenuous activities.
• 2 weeks: Swelling and bruising fade.
• 3 weeks: Resume strenuous activities and heavy lifting (when cleared by your surgeon).
• 3+ months: Final results achieved (when swelling clears).
• 6+ months: Scars fade.

Trichiasis Treatment Recovery

Recovery varies with the specifics of the treatment. After trichiasis surgery, expect minor swelling, soreness, and redness for about 3 to 5 days. To minimize the risk of infection, do not touch or rub your eyelid while it heals.

Surgery at Animas Surgical Hospital

Our physicians perform surgery just next door at Animas Surgical Hospital. A mainstay of the community, Animas Surgical Hospital is Durango’s preferred hospital. Although your procedure is outpatient, you can feel confident that you’re receiving care in a fully accredited facility outfitted with everything you need to maintain your safety and comfort.

Eyelid Surgery FAQ

Does insurance pay for eyelid surgery if it’s not for aesthetic reasons?

While coverage differs between medical insurance providers, many cover functional blepharoplasty if certain criteria are met, such as impediments to the patient’s peripheral vision.

Does ptosis of the eyelid correct itself after cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery does not correct eyelid ptosis and may actually cause it. In many cases, post-surgical ptosis is temporary (transient) and resolves within 6 months.

Does trichiasis surgery hurt?

The surgeon numbs the eyelid before performing trichiasis treatment to control discomfort.

Is ptosis surgery worth it?

Yes. Surgery for eyelid ptosis can improve patients’ field of vision and help them look more youthful. In most cases, recovery is not difficult.

Is eyelid surgery safe?

When performed by an experienced surgeon in an accredited facility, eyelid surgery is considered safe for most people.

Can eyelid surgery improve vision?

Eyelid surgery can help patients see more clearly by addressing excess lax skin that may obscure their peripheral vision.

Are you ready to move forward with your eyelid procedure? Please request your appointment online or call us at the clinic at (970) 259-2202.

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