Oculoplastic Eyelid Surgery

Botox

Eye Physicians of Central Florida board-certified and fellowship-trained ophthalmologist David B. Auerbach, D.O., specializes in oculoplastic surgery.

Oculopastic surgery involves the cosmetic, corrective and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids.

Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is one of the most common oculopastic procedures performed. It repairs droopy eyelids – which can impair vision -- by removing excess skin, muscle and fat. It also can make your eyes appear younger and more alert.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is oculoplastic surgery?

Oculopastic surgery involves the cosmetic, corrective and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids. Specializing in the eyes’ function and health as well as their appearance, an oculopastic surgeon has completed training in both ophthalmology and plastic surgery in the area around the eyes.

What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive eye surgery?

Cosmetic eye surgery focuses on improving the eye’s appearance often making a person look more youthful. This includes shaping the upper and lower eyelids which often involves the removal of excess skin and fat. Reconstructive eyelid surgery corrects problems caused by trauma, tumors, congenital defects and aging. Many of these conditions can also affect a person’s vision.

Is oculoplastic surgery covered by insurance?

Most insurances cover procedures that are considered medically necessary. Most do not cover procedures performed purely for cosmetic reasons. Our office will be happy to help determine if a specific procedure is covered by your insurance. In addition, for procedures that are not covered, we offer financing options. (Click here to learn more – link to financing page)

What causes droopy eyelids?

Droopy eyelids can be caused by extra skin on the upper eyelids and/or ptosis -- a weakness of the muscle that opens the eye. Ptosis most often occurs as a result of aging and can also occur after eye surgery, from an eye injury or as a complication of other diseases such as diabetes. It can also be congenital. Ptosis can cause visual field loss, especially in the upper field of vision, as well as fatigue from trying to elevate the drooping lid. Adults with ptosis often tip their heads back to try to see past their eyelids. Many also raise their eyebrows as a result of trying to raise their lids.

What can I do to correct droopy eyelids?

One of the most common oculoplastic procedures performed, blepharoplasty/ptosis repair corrects droopy eyelids – which can impair vision -- by removing excess skin, muscle and fat, and tightening the muscle which raises the eyelid. It can also make your eyes appear more youthful and less tired. The incisions used for this surgery are almost invisible since they are hidden in the normal eyelid crease.

What can be done to correct bags under the eyes?

Blepharoplasty, one of the most common oculoplastic procedures performed, can remove the excess skin and fat under the eyes which causes the “bags.” Usually with a lower eyelid blepharoplasty, the incision is made on the inside surface of the eyelid so there is no visible scar.

Does eyelid surgery/blepharoplasty require hospitalization?

No. Blepharoplasty is typically performed in an outpatient surgery center using local anesthesia with IV sedation.

What can be done for an eyelid that turns inward?

Most often a result of aging, this is referred to as entropion and is caused by weakening and stretching of the tendons that support the eyelids. Entropion can also happen as a result of scarring inside the eyelid or infection. When the eyelashes and skin rub against they eye, they can cause irritation, redness and a sensitivity to wind and light. Surgery to tighten the tendons can correct entropion. In addition, excess skin or fatty tissue can be removed.

Why does my lower eyelid droop down and turn out? Can anything be done to correct it?

This condition is called ectropion and occurs as a result of the eye’s tendons stretching. It most often happens due to aging but can also be caused by an eyelid burn, trauma or skin disease. Symptoms include sagging, redness, dryness, excessive tearing and sensitivity to wind and light. Ectropion eyelid surgery tightens the stretched tendons and shortens the eyelid.

What is eyelid reconstruction?

The most common causes of eyelid defects that require reconstruction are tumors/skin cancer, trauma and previous eyelid surgery. The goals of eyelid reconstruction are to improve the eyelid’s function, ensure the eyelid protects the eye, and improve the eyelid’s appearance. A wide variety of surgical techniques are available to correct these problems.

If you have an oculoplastic concern or would like to learn more about treatments available to you at Eye Physicians of Central Florida, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Auerbach.