Eyelid Surgery

(Blepharoplasty, Eyelid Ptosis, Ectropion and Entropion)

Ophthalmic plastic (aka oculoplastic) surgeons, such as Dr. Lo, are trained in both plastic surgery and ophthalmology. Dr. Lo is uniquely qualified and specially trained in these advanced techniques to correct many disorders around the eyelid area. The most common procedures include blepharoplasty, eyelid ptosis repair, ectropion repair, and entropion repair.
See Eyelid Surgery Before & After Photos

Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is the removal of excess tissue on the eyelid (dermatochalasis). This excess tissue on the eyelid can hang over the eyelashes and block vision. Patients will compensate by raising their eyebrows, which can lead to headaches by the end of the day. Insurance will cover the removal of the upper eyelid tissue if it meets their strict criteria. If it does not, then it is considered a cosmetic procedure and insurance will not cover it.

Eyelid Ptosis

Eyelid ptosis refers to the droopy position of the eyelid and has nothing to do with excess skin on the eyelid (dermatochalasis). Patients commonly confuse eyelid ptosis with dermatochalasis, when they are separate problems. Eyelid ptosis commonly occurs in the elderly, but can occur in children in rare cases. When it occurs in the elderly, it usually is the result of a separation of the deeper eyelid muscle from its normal attachment site. If the condition is the result of aging, a delicate eyelid procedure can be done to correct the ptosis. Insurance will cover this procedure only if the eyelid droop blocks vision. It is possible to have eyelid ptosis without dermatochalasis or to have both conditions present at the same time. In this case, a blepharoplasty can be done in conjunction with the eyelid ptosis repair, but the blepharoplasty portion is usually considered cosmetic.

Ectropion

Ectropion is the turning out of the eyelid. Causes include aging, sun damage, tumors, burns, and excessive skin removal during blepharoplasty. The patient feels extreme irritation, redness, and tearing. If left alone, infections can occur frequently. In most cases, the eyelid needs tightening but in some cases, a skin graft will also be needed to help reposition the eyelid. The condition is covered by insurance and is corrected with a short procedure.

Entropion

Entropion is the turning in of the eyelid. Like ectropion, aging is usually the main cause but trauma, and inflammatory conditions can also be reasons for the condition. Because the eyelid turns in, the eyelid and eyelashes rub on the cornea, causing extreme discomfort and soreness of the eye. A brief operation under local anesthesia is usually sufficient to correct the problem. Insurance will cover this reconstruction.

About Faces Cosmetic Surgery is located in Tucson, Arizona. Our facility is renowned for its state of the art cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery procedures. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us.