When Should You Get an Eyelid Lift?
leEyelid lift surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is commonly associated with cosmetic purposes to enhance appearance. However, there are situations where an eyelid lift becomes medically necessary. The primary indication for a medically necessary eyelid lift is when the upper eyelid droops or when excess eyelid skin obstructs the visual field. In this blog, we will discuss the conditions that can lead to a medically necessary eyelid lift and the methods used to determine this necessity.
Visual Field Obstruction
When the upper eyelid droops excessively or the eyelid skin folds over the eye, it can obstruct part of the visual field. This condition, known as ptosis, can result in reduced peripheral vision or even complete obstruction of the superior visual field. This becomes a concern as it impairs an individual’s ability to see clearly and perform daily activities safely.
Automated Visual Field Examination
To determine the medical necessity for an eyelid lift, a thorough assessment is required. One commonly used method is an automated visual field examination. During this test, the extent of an individual’s vision is measured. The test is typically performed without any intervention, and the results are recorded.
Upper Eyelid Tape Test
In some cases, the automated visual field examination may not provide a conclusive result. To determine if the eyelids are the cause of any missing vision, a second test can be conducted. This second test involves taping the upper eyelids up and temporarily lifting them to assess if the visual field obstruction is relieved. The visual field test is then repeated, this time with the upper eyelids taped up.
Impact on Superior Visual Field
If the visual field test reveals that the superior visual field is impacted when the upper eyelids are in their natural position but is significantly improved when the eyelids are taped up, this indicates that the eyelids are the cause of the visual field obstruction. In such cases, an eyelid lift or blepharoplasty is considered medically necessary to restore clear vision and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
The Importance of Medical Evaluation
Determining the medical necessity for an eyelid lift is a process that requires the expertise and evaluation of a qualified ophthalmologist or plastic surgeon. These professionals will conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient’s eyelids, eye health, and visual function. They will carefully review the results of the visual field examinations and make an informed decision regarding the necessity of an eyelid lift.
When to Consider an Eyelid Lift or Blepharoplasty
Even if there is medical necessity demonstrated through a visual field test and repeated taped test, there are additional factors to consider before pursuing a blepharoplasty.
One thing to consider is whether or not another ocular surgery is likely in the near future. If cataract surgery is needed soon, it may be worth waiting until after the cataract surgery for the blepharoplasty as cataract surgery can lead to changes in the eyelid anatomy.
Additionally, overall health must be good in order to successfully heal from a blepharoplasty so if there are acute or ongoing systemic issues these should be addressed prior to an eyelid lift.
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