Blepharoplasty and LASIK:

Better Think Twice About Your Timing

PREMIUM EDITION CONTENT PREVIEW FOR FULL ACCESS: SIGN IN OR UPGRADE NOW

As refractive surgery has grown in popularity, the number of people seeking blepharoplasty who have either had or are actively considering having LASIK has increased dramatically. Fortunately, the two procedures are compatible. To maximize the chance for a good refractive result, however, several general guidlines related to proper timing and selection of eyelid surgical approach should be considered: 1. While either LASIK or blepharoplasty may be performed before or after the other, the two procedures should not be performed simultaneously. 2. If blepharoplasty is performed first, several months should elapse before undergoing preliminary LASIK calculations. Precise measurement of corneal shape and refractive status are critical to the success of LASIK. Following eyelid surgery, both of these parameters may be temporarily altered by slight but persistent swelling on the eyelids and/or on the conjunctival surface of the eyeball. 3. If LASIK is performed first, blepharoplasty should be delayed for about six months or more. No matter how gentle your eyelid surgeon's touch, there is some stress placed on the cornea during the operation. Furthermore, temporary interference with normal eyelid closure and positioning during healing may aggravate symptoms caused by the tear deficiency and dryness often experienced by those who have undergone recent LASIK. Since some LASIK surgeons may prefer a longer interval (especially, for instance, if a secondary "enhancement" procedure is being contemplated), it's best to . . .

TO CONTINUE READING, UPGRADE TO PREMIUM

CHECK OUT WHAT YOU'RE MISSING

More Feature Articles