Eyelid Surgery for Medical Reasons: Beyond Aesthetics

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is often associated with cosmetic enhancements. However, for some individuals, eyelid surgery may also serve medical purposes, particularly when addressing issues such as obstructed vision caused by drooping eyelids. 

While blepharoplasty is one option to consider, it is not the only solution for these concerns. In this blog, Artiste Plastic Surgery explores the potential functional and health-related reasons why some may consider eyelid surgery. It’s important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if this procedure is appropriate for your specific situation and to explore alternative treatments that may also be effective.

1. Vision Improvement

One of the primary medical reasons for eyelid surgery is to address vision impairment caused by sagging or drooping eyelids (ptosis). As we age, the skin around the eyes can lose elasticity, leading to excess skin that can obstruct the visual field. 

This can make activities like reading, driving, or watching television challenging. Blepharoplasty can help by removing this excess skin and, in some cases, repositioning or tightening the eyelid muscles. 

Although not the only treatment for this issue, it is an option that may improve the visual field in patients whose vision is obstructed by eyelid ptosis​

2. Correction of Ectropion and Entropion

Ectropion and entropion cause the eyelids to turn outward and inward respectively. This disrupts the normal function of the eyelids and makes them vulnerable to irritation.

Ectropion exposes the inner eyelid, causing dryness, irritation, and potential corneal damage due to absence of protection. Meanwhile entropion causes the lashes to rub against the eye, leading to discomfort, tearing, and increased risk of injury in the cornea.

Both conditions, often linked to ageing, trauma, or scarring may be corrected through eyelid surgery, which restores the proper alignment of the eyelids, relieves symptoms, and prevent further complications.

Eyelid surgery doesn’t only affect aesthetic changes, but medical too. It may help address functional issues like vision impairment due to drooping eyelids or discomfort due to eyelid malposition.

For individuals experiencing these concerns, blepharoplasty may be a viable option worth considering. Undergoing the proper BDD (Body Dysmorphic Disorder) screenings, consulting with a qualified medical professional, and consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is essential to determine the appropriateness of the procedure.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.