What is the Consultation for a Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery like?
I begin the free consultation with a frank discussion about the specific issues and concerns that the patient has. I want to know whether the eyelid aged from early on, has it recently aged, or has the aging been progressing for a long time. Any ocular diseases, including symptoms of dry eye, must be discussed.
I then perform a thorough facial and eyelid physical examination. The upper eyelid is examined for skin redundancy. The brow position is also examined. A brow that has descended may mimic upper eyelid redundancy. This is important, as performing an upper Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery on a normal upper eyelid with a low brow, can essentially pull the brow even lower. Patients with a low brow should be counseled about a brow lift.
The lower eyelid is then examined. The amount of fat herniation is examined as well as the strength of the lower eyelid. Weak lower eyelids may require an additional lid tightening procedure. The position of the eye in relationship to the bony rim is then examined to help determine the technique that should be used for the surgery.
The patient and I then have a discussion about the result that I believe can be achieved with surgery. The patient should understand exactly what the Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery procedure will achieve for them, so that an informed decision can be made. The procedure is explained in detail and all questions are answered in our Washington, dc office.
