Can hooded eyelids interfere with vision?

Upper eyelids, with time and gravity cause an excess or visor of skin, known as hooding. The hooding can be so severe that it obliterates the upper eyelid skin crease, and may interfere with peripheral vision, particularly when looking upward. Patients compensate for this by unknowingly lifting their eyebrows. This compensation can lead to eyelid strain and headaches, and in addition, result in an aged or crowded eye. Upper eyelid surgery, and in some cases a brow or forehead lift, can be used to correct this condition.

What can be done for dark circles under my eyes?

Dark circles may be treated by lower eyelid surgery if it results from shadowing due to bulging fat or bags. If the dark circles result from pigmentation changes of eyelid skin, skin bleaching creams or light chemical peels may improve this condition.

How old should I be to undergo eyelid surgery?

There is no correct age for obtaining eyelid surgery. Excessive skin in the upper lids, or bulging fat in the lower lids are commonly seen with signs of aging. However, young adults in their late teens or twenties have similar complaints (due to inherited traits) which may be corrected as well.

When should eyelid surgery be combined with a brow lift?

When the upper eyelids age, the skin looses its elasticity. In addition, the forehead and eyebrow position drops contributing to upper eyelid hooding. If brow ptosis (droopiness) is significant, a forehead/brow lift combined with upper eyelid surgery may be indicated.

What is done during eyelid surgery?

When performing this delicate surgery there are four lids: two uppers and two lowers. Upper eyelid surgery is performed by removing mainly excessive skin, and to a lesser extent fat, to contour the upper lids. When performing lower eyelid surgery, protruding fat is removed, as well as a minimal amount of skin. This procedure will improve over-hanging eyelid skin in the upper lids, and remove bags in the lower lids. Fine lines and wrinkles, as well as "crows feet" will have minimal improvement.

Will the shape of my eyes look different?

When performing eyelid surgery the globe (eyeball) is not altered. However, lid skin, or the framework around the globe is altered. Changing the frame around the globe will make the eye appear more open, rounder, and less tired. Eyelid surgery will not give you the "surprised" look.

Call for a complimentary consultation: John F. Farella, MD., F.A.C.S (914) 241-7111 Lexington Avenue Suite 104 - Mount Kisco, NY 10549 (914) 997-9090 311 North Street Suite 408 - White Plains, NY 10605 (718) 548-5200 3333 Henry Hudson Parkway Suite 1-A - Riverdale, NY 10463 http://www.drfarella.com