Desert Eyesthetics is proud to offer a range of eyelid surgery options to preserve your vision and restore your youthful, refreshed appearance. Dr. Garcia, our board-certified Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon, will evaluate your unique needs and discuss your treatment options. You can always trust her for outstanding, comfortable care.
Here’s a look at some of the most common conditions that require eyelid surgery.
People over age 50 often develop dermatochalasis due to various factors, including genetics, reduced skin elasticity, weak connective tissues, thyroid problems, congenital conditions, or smoking. It is characterized by droopy eyelids or excessive upper or lower eyelid skin, resulting in a tired or sad appearance.
Dermatochalasis can affect one or both eyes and may lead to impaired peripheral vision. Dr. Garcia may recommend an eyelid lift or blepharoplasty surgery to improve your vision and restore your rested, rejuvenated appearance.
Blepharoptosis or ptosis typically results from the deterioration or paralysis of the muscles responsible for raising the upper lids due to trauma, infections, congenital disorders, or wearing contact lenses for long periods. Ptosis can affect general and peripheral vision.
Ptosis treatment involves tightening the lifting muscles. However, if these muscles are too weak, Dr. Garcial may bypass them with artificial material. An eyelid with excessive skin may also require an eyelid lift or blepharoplasty.
Ectropion is a condition that develops due to aging as the eyelid tissues and tendons stretch. It can also result from trauma, eyelid growths, facial paralysis, and previous eyelid surgeries.
Ectropion is characterized by eyelids that sag and turn outward, usually only affecting the lower lid. The out-turning forms a gap between the eyelid and the eyeball, leaving the inner lid surface prone to irritation, excessive dryness, tearing, crusting, and light sensitivity. With time, the eyelid may become red and thicken. Ectropion surgery will restore your eyelid health, function, and appearance.
Entropion usually affects the lower eyelids and most commonly occurs due to aging, trauma, or scarring. It is characterized by eyelids that turn inward, which can cause the eyelashes to scratch the eye’s surfaces, leading to irritation, pain, excessive tearing, redness, and light sensitivity.
If not treated, entropion can permanently damage the cornea and lead to vision loss. Dr. Garcia may recommend surgery as a long-term solution to reattach the loose muscle and tighten the eyelid tendon, relieving your symptoms and preserving your vision.
Skin cancer can occur on the eyelids, requiring the removal of the malignant cells while saving as much skin as possible to preserve the eyelids. Mohs surgery, usually performed by a dermatologist, is the preferred approach to removing the cancer cells. That may leave defects in the eyelashes, tear ducts, and surrounding peri-ocular structures.
Dr. Garcia will use specialized techniques to repair the eyelids and reduce the chances of functional or cosmetic problems. Her skill and extensive experience allow her to perform the delicate procedures required to correct defects of any size or even rebuild an entire eyelid if needed.
Most eyelid surgeries are performed under a local anesthetic and light IV sedation. Some patients report mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort following the procedure, which, in most cases, subsides within about two weeks.
The best way to determine whether you’re an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Garcia. She will evaluate your concerns and recommend the best treatment option to restore your eyelid function, protect your vision, and deliver a refreshed, natural-looking appearance.
Contact Desert Eyesthetics to learn more about our eyelid surgery options. Dr. Garcia will create a personalized treatment plan considering your unique needs and desired treatment outcomes. Call us and schedule your appointment today!