A blepharoplasty is a procedure to remove excessive upper or lower eyelid skin. The procedure is considered a medical procedure covered by insurance if the excess skin on the eyelids interferes with your vision. If the eyelids do not interfere with eyesight, but is performed to reduce the appearance of "bags" under the eyes, or dark circles or wrinkles, the procedure will be considered a cosmetic procedure that will not be covered by insurance.

The surgery involves either removing, or repositioning the excess eyelid tissue. The procedure can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids depending on the nature of the condition. Usually, the excess skin on the upper eyelid will hang over the eyelashes and block peripheral vision. Patients normally have the surgery for cosmetic reasons if the excess skin is less severe, especially if it is creating “bags” under their eyes.

A blepharoplasty is performed by making external incisions along creases of the upper eyelids and below the lashes or on the surface of the lower eyelids, to minimize scarring. After the surgery swelling and bruising my be considerable for the first few weeks, but will disappear, leaving a firmer eye area and unobstructed vision.