Dermatochalasis (Baggy Eyelids) Treatment in Huntington Beach

Have your eyelids started to sag with age? Tissues around the eye are very malleable for optimal vision performance, but this also leaves the skin susceptible to droopiness. This cosmetic condition is called dermatochalasis. If you are displeased with the way drooping upper eyelids have changed your appearance, the ophthalmologists at Clarity Eye Group can help to reelevate your eyelids to rejuvenate your face and expand your field of vision.

Effects of Dermatochalasis

Loose, excess skin and fat above the eyes can leave you with a perpetually tired appearance, even when you feel energetic on the inside. Sagging may be worse on one side, causing the eyes to appear asymmetrical. In advanced cases, it may also impact your field of vision by covering more of your eye. Some patients develop migraines from over-exerting their forehead muscles to try to open their eyes more completely.

Please note that dermatochalasis is a separate issue from ptosis. Ptosis describes when a drooping upper eyelid is caused by weakened muscles. Both dermatochalasis and ptosis can be addressed by an ophthalmologist.

Treating Dermatochalasis

The best way to address baggy eyes is with blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery. With this surgery, your ophthalmologist places a tiny, delicate incision along the upper crease of the eyelid (so scarring is minimal and concealed) through which excess skin and fat can be removed. If necessary, eyelid muscles can also be tightened to further strengthen and elevate the eyelids.

The procedure is typically completed in about one hour and does not require general anesthesia.

Recovery and Results of Blepharoplasty

You can expect your eyes to feel sore (which is manageable with pain medication) and tired for the first couple days. Prioritize rest and relaxation to avoid over-exerting your eyes. Some bruising and swelling are expected, but these side effects should fade in the weeks to follow.

Blepharoplasty can reverse signs of aging on the upper eyelid, but it cannot stop the effects of aging permanently. Eventually, lax skin may cause sagging to reappear, but you can generally enjoy the results of surgery for 10 years or more.

Lower Dermatochalasis

Although dermatochalasis is more common in the upper eyelids, it can also affect the lower eyelids. Dark, puffy circles below the eyes can gradually develop due to aging and accumulated sun exposure/damage. While this has no impact on your vision, it may pose a cosmetic concern. Lower blepharoplasty can correct this issue by removing or repositioning loose tissue to create smoother skin with an even tone.

Costs Related to Dermatochalasis

Blepharoplasty is generally considered an elective procedure. Health insurance may cover some or all of treatment for dermatochalasis if droopiness is significantly impairing vision or contributing to a health problem like migraines. The team at Clarity Eye Group can discuss specific costs after devising a customized treatment plan.

Why You Should Choose Clarity Eye Group to Address Baggy Eyes

While blepharoplasty is often performed by general plastic surgeons, it makes sense to choose an ophthalmologist with an in-depth understanding of ocular anatomy to perform this procedure to ensure vision is not only maintained but enhanced. Our surgeons are among the top of their field and understand how to remove the right amount of tissue so that the face looks younger without looking artificial. To learn more about dermatochalasis and whether you are a good candidate for surgery, please schedule a consultation by calling 714-842-0651 today.

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