Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States and around the world today. The procedure is popular because it removes excess skin on the eyelids and lifts and reshapes the remaining skin and tissue for a younger-looking and energetic appearance. However, there are a few instances in which eyelid surgery can be deemed medically necessary. In this blog post, the vision experts at Visual Health share those reasons.
Impaired Vision
When the skin on the upper eyelids become loose and heavy, it can often droop so low that it hangs over the edge of the eyelashes. This can interfere with the line of sight and make some everyday activities (e.g., reading) difficult and other activities (e.g., driving) dangerous. With eyelid surgery, excess skin and tissue on the upper eyelids is removed for clear, unobstructed vision.
Skin Irritation and Rashes
In some cases, eyelid surgery can help relieve physical discomfort caused by irritation and rashes. Loose skin on the upper or lower eyelids can rub against other skin, causing chafing or irritation. In some cases, sweat can accumulate in the skin folds, which can lead to rashes and even infections. If the loose, excess skin on your lower and/or upper eyelids are causing you physical discomfort, talk to an eye doctor to see if eyelid surgery is appropriate.
Can Insurance Cover Eyelid Surgery?
When performed for cosmetic reasons, eyelid surgery is never covered by medical insurance. However, if the procedure is deemed a medical necessity, some insurance providers may cover all or a part of eyelid surgery. Most health insurance companies require documented evidence from a medical doctor or ophthalmologist in order to approve the procedure.
Talk to our Eye Experts about Eyelid Surgery
To discuss your candidacy for eyelid surgery, schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our board certified ophthalmologists at Visual Health. Following a thorough examination and discussion of your needs, we can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. To contact us, please call our Palm Springs office at (561) 964-0707 or our Jupiter office at (561) 747-1111.
