The appearance of your upper eyes is central to your facial expression. When you have upper eye lid surgery, it can not only improve the way you look, but also your self-confidence. After blepharoplasty, patients often remark that they look less tired, are more youthful and feel happier about themselves.
Cosmetic upper eyelid surgery can be done if you have excess skin and fat in your upper eyelids that is not causing significant hooding with compromise of field of vision. Many people also have trouble wearing glasses, have hereditary conditions or simply have fat pockets that become more prominent over time with age. Surgery helps recontour the upper eyelids to have a rejuvenating and well rested periocular appearance.
If the hooding of your eyelids is very severe, your peripheral vision may become compromised. You may start using your forehead and brow muscles in an attempt to lift the eyelids out of the way to see better. Symptoms are usually worse when tired and at the end of the day. In this case, medical insurance can be used to cover the surgery as it is not for cosmetic improvement but for an actual improvement in the peripheral vision (although an added benefit is an improvement in the periocular appearance).
The incision for this surgery is made on the outside of the eyelid in the natural upper eyelid crease so it is well hidden when it heals. Fat pockets in the upper eyelids can be sculpted and/or removed as well.
Dr. Parbhu is fellowship trained through the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery so she has an added level of expertise in her approach to eyelid surgery. This specialized training allows her to assess the eyelids as well as look at the periocular area to determine if the patient also needs ptosis repair or a brow repair to be done which can also contribute to the heaviness of the upper eyelid area. Some patients may also benefit from a lower eyelid blepharoplasty at the same time as well.
Because she is an ophthalmologist who is fellowship trained in oculoplastic surgery, she can also take into consideration any eye issues such as dry eye which is important to treat prior to eye surgery. She has a special interest in dry eye and believes it is important to treat this before proceeding with eyelid surgery as this condition can worsen when the eyes are opened as a result of the surgery. It is important to see an eyelid specialist when considering surgery around the eyes.
Dr. Parbhu takes an individualized approach to each patient to assess their needs. She develops a customized surgical plan to help you see better and look better.