Reconstructive and Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

What's the difference between reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid surgery?

The eyelids are very important for vision. Eyelids not only surround and protect the eye, they also produce tears which provides the eye with nutrition and lubrication. Eyelashes prevent debris from falling into the eye. The blinking muscles also help wash away any foreign material that reaches the eye. All of these structures are necessary to maintain normal vision.

Many diseases affect the eyelids, and some prevent the eyelids from protecting and nourishing the eye. For instance, tumors of the eyelid or trauma to the eyelid can threaten the vision and must be corrected with surgery. Even baggy eyelids can affect vision if they hang down far enough to block your sight. Any eyelid surgery that prevents or corrects vision loss is considered a reconstructive surgery.

On the other hand, some disorders of the eyelids cause a cosmetic change in the lid appearance, but do not threaten vision. For instance, baggy eyelids that hang down just enough to be noticeable but not enough to block vision can still be surgically repaired, but this would be a cosmetic procedure rather than a reconstructive procedure.

If you have an eyelid problem and would like a consultation, call our office today for an appointment.

Does insurance cover these procedures?

Every insurance policy has different benefits, but generally, insurance covers reconstructive surgery if loss of vision or a threat to vision can be documented by the physician. For cosmetic procedures, insurance rarely offers coverage.

If you have any questions about the benefits of your insurance plan, call your insurance provider for details.