EYELID SURGERY 

For patients dealing with eyelid issues of a cosmetic nature, Dr. Harvey offers aesthetic surgery of the eyes (very often in conjunction with the face).  Patients in the San Francisco, California area and beyond are encouraged to see Dr. Harvey at his location in the Nob Hill area for eyelid surgery.

Eyelid Surgery Q&A

What is eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery is performed as a cosmetic, procedure. Generally, aesthetic operations are done to alter the look of the person’s eyes, most often due to the signs of aging. They can also be used to improve conditions affecting the function of the eyes. For patients with vision concerns because of sagging eyelids, the operation can be especially beneficial. Eyelid surgery operations are not done to the eye itself, but rather, the skin above and/or below the eye.  A blepharoplasty, also referred to as an eye lift, is the most common type of operation done.

Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?

People who are in good health are generally the best candidates for the eyelid surgery. Most of the time the operations are performed on people who are 35 years old and older. If you are suffering from droopy eyelids as part of a genetic condition, the operation can be done sooner to improve vision. Dr. Harvey will go over the operation techniques available with you to make sure you receive the best results.

You may be a candidate for eyelid surgery if you have any of the following:
·        if you have excess, hanging skin covering the natural fold of the upper eyelids
·        If you have loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids over the eyelashes
·        If your upper and lower eyelids appear puffy, making your eyes look tired and aged
·        If you have deep grooves under your eyes

Are the results permanent?

An operation performed on the upper lid can last for roughly 5 to 7 years whereas the lower eyelid operation will rarely need to be done a second time. Surgery will involve a short time in the recovery room and you will need a responsible adult to drive you home. Though the operation will take care of any sagging or drooping of the eyelid, natural aging around the eye will resume. If drooping returns following the operation, a forehead lift can be helpful. Eyelid surgery can increase a patient's confidence regarding the appearance of the eyes, however, it will not alter the individual’s facial structure at its core.