How to Benefit From Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, or cosmetic eyelid surgery, corrects eyelid damage or appearance. Getting the most out of blepharoplasty depends entirely on making well thought out choices, having realistic expectations and following through on post operative instructions.

Instructions

• 1

  Set several thousand dollars aside for your eyelid surgery. This may seem like common sense, but many people elect to have blepharoplasty without first considering the costs involved. Many insurance carriers do not cover the surgery unless it is deemed "medically necessary" (for example, drooping eyelids that block the eyes and reduce vision). Contact your insurance carrier to learn the coverage for your specific situation.

• 2

  Consult with your primary health care provider, family and friends before electing to have blepharoplasty. Although the desire to have blepharoplasty may stem from a legitimate cosmetic or health concern, a small segment of people elect to have blepharoplasty because they suffer from a mental disorder (Body Dysmophic Disorder or BDD) which causes them to have a poor self-image or obsess over small physical imperfections.

• 3

  Verify your plastic surgeon's certifications at both the state and national level. For example, qualified North American plastic surgeons hold member status with either the American Society of Plastic Surgery or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®. Also, ask your plastic surgeon whether he can provide you with a list of satisfied patients who are willing to give a recommendation.

• 4

  Speak with your primary care physician and plastic surgeon about the pros and cons of blepharoplasty in relation to your specific eyelid improvement goals (i.e., reduce under eye bags, puffiness, or wrinkles; improve physical defects such as poorly positioned eyelids or excess upper eyelids that block vision) and health situation. Keep in mind that individuals who have made certain social choices such as regular alcohol consumption or smoking or have certain health issues such as anemia, slow healing, eye disease, circulatory issues including high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease, or diabetes face a greater risk of complications during and after surgery.

• 5

  Be realistic about the possible post-operative complications and negative blepharoplasty results. Although many consider the benefits of plastic surgery to outweigh any risks, many risks do exist. Infections of the eye are common and other symptoms such as pain, blood clots, loss of sensation, vision loss and scarring also occur.

• 6

  Follow all pre and post-operative instructions from your plastic surgeon and primary health care provider. Immediately follow-up with them should you experience any post-operative issues.