Aesthetic treatments
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
Sagging upper eyelids (“hooded eyelids”) or pronounced bags under the eyes often make you look more tired, older or irritable than you actually feel – in pronounced cases, drooping upper eyelids can even visibly restrict the upper field of vision. Eyelid surgery, medically called blepharoplasty, removes excess skin and, where necessary, protruding fat tissue on the upper or lower eyelid, giving a more alert, open and fresher expression without changing the natural shape of the eye. I perform aesthetic eyelid surgery in cooperation with Dr. Matthias Karasek at his practice in St. Pölten, and medically necessary procedures at University Hospital St. Pölten.
When does eyelid surgery make sense?
On the upper eyelid, the procedure makes sense when excess, slack skin hangs over the natural eyelid crease and either demonstrably restricts the upper field of vision or is perceived as bothersome or tired-looking. On the lower eyelid, visible bags, bulging fat or slack, wrinkled skin are usually the main concern. A basic requirement is healthy eyes without acute inflammation or untreated disease; with certain pre-existing eye conditions, dry eyes or thyroid disease, which can also affect the eyelid, an examination by an ophthalmologist beforehand makes sense and is recommended by me. I also point out to patients who smoke that they have a higher risk of wound-healing problems.
What does the operation involve?
In most cases the procedure is carried out as an outpatient procedure under local anaesthesia and, depending on its extent – whether one or both eyelids and upper and lower lids are treated at the same time – takes 45 to 90 minutes. Through a very fine incision in the natural eyelid crease of the upper lid, which is barely visible later, or directly below the lashes on the lower lid, the excess skin and, if necessary, protruding fat tissue are gently removed or redistributed. The wound is then closed without tension using very fine sutures suitable for the delicate eyelid skin. The treated areas are cooled immediately afterwards.
How does healing go?
In the first week after the procedure, swelling and bruising around the eyelids are normal and usually clearly visible to others; consistent cooling in the first days and sleeping with your head raised (an extra pillow) noticeably relieve both. The fine stitches are usually removed with little discomfort after about five to seven days. In the first weeks you should wear glasses instead of contact lenses and avoid strenuous physical activity and direct, unprotected sunlight. The final, harmonious result only shows once the last, usually only slight residual swelling has completely subsided after several weeks.
What does treatment cost?
If eyelid surgery is medically justified – for example when an ophthalmologist confirms a functional restriction of the visual field caused by drooping upper eyelids – the procedure takes place at University Hospital St. Pölten and, if the requirements are met, can be covered by statutory health insurance; the insurer makes this decision. We arrange the necessary ophthalmologist's report together beforehand. I will be happy to explain the procedure and costs of aesthetic eyelid surgery in cooperation with Dr. Matthias Karasek in detail after a personal examination.
Personal consultation before every treatment
Before every treatment I take time for a detailed personal consultation: together we go through your medical history, discuss realistic expectations and answer all open questions before you decide on an appointment. Only with a complete medical history and a careful examination can I assess whether a treatment is suitable for you and which approach makes sense in your case.
Frequently asked questions
Does health insurance pay for eyelid surgery for hooded eyelids?
If drooping upper eyelids demonstrably restrict the field of vision, the procedure can be covered by statutory health insurance at University Hospital St. Pölten. This requires an ophthalmologist's report, and the insurer makes the decision. I will be happy to explain the procedure and costs of aesthetic eyelid surgery.
When will I look normal again after eyelid surgery?
In the first week, swelling and bruising are usually clearly visible. The stitches are removed after about five to seven days. Slight residual swelling subsides completely after several weeks.
Will the scar be visible?
The incision lies in the natural crease of the upper eyelid and directly below the lashes on the lower eyelid. The scar is barely visible there later.
Would you like a consultation?
Arrange a non-binding appointment – I will get back to you as soon as possible.
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