Eyelid Surgery: How Does It Work?

Eyelid Surgery: How Does it Work?

I get a lot of questions about Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, which we perform here on a regular basis at the Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center.

We educate our prospective patients on the fact that the life-changing outpatient upper eyelid surgery can often be covered by insurance.

That insurance coverage is a big deal for many - since, while eyelid surgery will enhance your appearance - it also will strongly improve your field of vision. Many patients elect to also have lower eyelid surgery performed at the same time, albeit lower lids are not covered by insurance.

But - one trend I have noticed in the community - is that many are already sold on the surgery.

Once they know that insurance could support their surgery, their primary question is - what can I expect? What is the surgery like for me during, and after?

That's easy.

The surgery, in fact, is an easy endeavor both for me, and for you. When performing upper eyelid surgery, we only numb your eyelids. It is no different than the local anesthesia numbing you've likely experienced many times over at your dentist's office!

Then, I use a CO2 laser in our state-licensed, Medicare-certified surgery center located right here in Sun City West, to guide me across your lid - which really improves the healing time as compared to using a scalpel. At that point, I continue to use the laser to eliminate any excess fat or skin that has caused your eyelids to droop.

You simply lie relaxed on a table with closed eyes, and with one of my skilled technicians holding your hand, as the process takes no more than 20 minutes on average.

The healing process ranges, but generally includes some possible bruising along your eyelid. Eyelids may feel heavy for a couple of hours until the local anesthesia wears off.

Droopy eyelids are exceedingly common, and I am dedicated to helping patients regain their self image, and their vision, by helping as many patients who have clinically significant eyelid drooping qualify for the upper eyelid surgery through their insurance. It's also important to me to talk you through every step of the process, and make it easy for you - a celebration of your rejuvenated life!

For many, this surgery makes the difference between being able to read a book - an important pastime we often take for granted - without growing tired and weary from eyelids. Especially here in the heat of Arizona, many patients come to me after their eyelids cause them discomfort.

You can see some Before and After examples above, and on this page, of patients I have performed the surgery on.

Or, learn even more by watching this video (click here or video below):

I hope you can call my office for a private consultation so that we may discuss your specific needs, goals and desires, thereby improving your life! You can schedule online here.

- Emilio M. Justo, M.D.

Founder and Medical Director

Arizona Eye Institute

& Cosmetic Laser Center