Issue 47.15
Eyelid surgery is performed most commonly in this country to improve people’s vision. Heavy eyelids and brows can block peripheral and even central vision, making driving, reading and daily chores more difficult. Medicare and private insurance have specific guidelines for covering eyelid surgery. They require patients be seen by a specialist who can evaluate the eyelids for certain key changes that cause decreased vision. First, the patient has to notice a problem with their vision and bring this up with their doctor. Second, there has to be a significant amount of excess skin of the upper eyelid or the eyelid must droop down to within 2 millimeters of the center of the pupil. If the eyelid skin is hanging on or over the eyelashes this qualifies as well. Lastly, a patient must have a certain limitation of their peripheral vision. This is measured by a simple test of the peripheral vision in the doctor’s office. Many different physicians perform some types of eyelid surgery, but fellowship trained oculoplastic surgeons specialize in eye and eyelid surgery and are the most experienced in all types of eyelid problems, both functional and cosmetic. Oculoplastic surgeons are trained ophthalmologists (MDs who perform eye surgery). They do 2 years of extra training in plastic surgery of the upper face, including the eyelids, eye-sockets, forehead and brows, and the tear drain system. Eyelid lifts (blepharoplasty and ptosis repair) are the most common surgeries they perform. Consultations are normally covered by insurance whether you ultimately qualify for surgery or not. If heavy eyelids are affecting your vision, contact Matheson Harris, M.D. at Dixie Ophthalmic Specialists @ Zion Eye Institute for a consultation.
To make an appointment call 435-656-2020 or visit our website at dixieos.com for more information.
Dr. Matheson Harris is an oculoplastic and facial reconstructive surgeon with Dixie Ophthalmic Specialists at the Zion Eye Institute in St. George.