Dermatochalasis and Blepharoplasty
The skin and supporting tissues around the eyes naturally lose elasticity with age. When excess eyelid skin begins to sag or fold, the condition is known as dermatochalasis. It may affect the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
For some people, dermatochalasis is primarily a cosmetic concern. For others, excess upper-eyelid skin can obstruct peripheral vision, make everyday activities more difficult, and cause forehead fatigue from constantly trying to hold the eyelids open.
A blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, can remove or reposition excess skin, muscle, and fat to improve the function and appearance of the eyelids.
What Is Dermatochalasis?
Dermatochalasis is excess, loose, or sagging eyelid skin that most commonly develops as part of the natural aging process. Over time, the skin loses elasticity, while the muscles and other tissues supporting the eyelids may weaken.
Although age is the most common contributing factor, genetics can also influence how early or noticeably the condition develops.
Dermatochalasis is different from ptosis. Dermatochalasis involves excess eyelid skin, while ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid itself sits too low. Some patients have both conditions and may require more than one type of eyelid procedure.
Symptoms of Upper-Eyelid Dermatochalasis
Excess upper-eyelid skin may hang over the natural eyelid crease and, in more advanced cases, extend toward the eyelashes or pupil. This can reduce the upper or peripheral field of vision.
Common symptoms include:
- Heavy or drooping upper eyelids
- Excess skin resting on or near the eyelashes
- Difficulty seeing objects above or to the side
- Improved vision when manually lifting the eyelid skin
- Frequently raising the eyebrows to see more clearly
- Forehead fatigue or tension
- Headaches caused by continually straining the forehead muscles
- Difficulty reading, driving, or completing other visual tasks
- Eyes that appear smaller, tired, or older
Research reviewed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology indicates that surgery for functional upper-eyelid dermatochalasis can improve peripheral vision and quality-of-life activities. American Academy of Ophthalmology
Lower-Eyelid Dermatochalasis
Dermatochalasis can also affect the lower eyelids. Loose skin and protruding or displaced fat may create:
- Puffiness beneath the eyes
- Under-eye bags
- Wrinkled or sagging lower-eyelid skin
- A chronically tired appearance
- An older or less rested appearance
Lower blepharoplasty is generally performed to improve appearance rather than vision. The procedure may involve removing excess skin, repositioning fat, or using a combination of techniques to create a smoother lower-eyelid contour.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the function, appearance, or both of the upper or lower eyelids. Surgery may be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
Depending on the patient’s anatomy and goals, an oculoplastic surgeon may:
- Remove excess eyelid skin
- Remove or reposition fatty tissue
- Adjust weakened eyelid muscles
- Improve eyelid contour and symmetry
- Reduce upper-eyelid heaviness
- Reduce lower-eyelid puffiness or bags
Blepharoplasty can improve vision when redundant upper-eyelid tissue obstructs the visual field. It can also create a more open, alert, and refreshed appearance.
Functional vs. Cosmetic Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty may be considered functional or cosmetic depending on why it is performed.
Functional blepharoplasty
Functional upper blepharoplasty is performed when excess skin interferes with vision or causes other documented functional problems. Patients may notice difficulty with reading, driving, or seeing objects in the upper portion of their visual field.
Cosmetic blepharoplasty
Cosmetic blepharoplasty is performed to improve eyelid appearance when excess skin or under-eye bags do not cause a medically significant visual obstruction. Cosmetic surgery is typically paid for by the patient.
A single procedure may provide both functional and cosmetic improvements. However, medical insurance generally considers only the medically necessary portion for potential coverage.
Schedule a Blepharoplasty Evaluation in Las Vegas
If sagging eyelid skin is affecting your vision or making you appear continually tired, the experienced eye care team at Meadows Eye can evaluate your condition and discuss appropriate treatment options.
Your consultation will help determine whether you have dermatochalasis, ptosis, brow drooping, or a combination of conditions. We will also discuss whether your procedure may qualify for medical insurance coverage or can be completed on a self-pay basis.
Call Meadows Eye at (702) 358-0472 to schedule your eyelid evaluation.