Oculoplastics
Oculoplastic & eyelid surgery
In short
Oculoplastic surgery treats problems of the eyelids, tear drainage system, and the area around the eyes. Some procedures are functional — such as lifting a droopy eyelid that blocks vision — and may be covered by insurance, while others are cosmetic and focus on appearance.
- Who it's for
- Adults and children with eyelid, tear duct, or around-the-eye concerns
- Insurance
- Functional procedures may be covered when testing documents vision impact; cosmetic procedures are not
- Offered at
- Falls Church · Fairfax · Alexandria
What conditions can oculoplastic surgery address?
- Droopy upper eyelids (ptosis) or excess eyelid skin (dermatochalasis)
- Eyelids that turn inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion)
- Chronic tearing and blocked tear ducts
- Eyelid bumps such as chalazia
- Congenital eyelid conditions in children
Is eyelid surgery cosmetic or medical?
If drooping eyelids block your upper field of vision, surgery may be medically necessary. We document this with an exam, photographs, and a visual field test, which insurers often require. Surgery done mainly to refresh appearance is considered cosmetic.
What is recovery like?
Expect some bruising and swelling for one to two weeks. Cold compresses, head elevation, and prescribed ointment help. Most people return to desk work within about a week.
Frequently asked questions
Will insurance cover my eyelid surgery?
Insurance may cover eyelid surgery when testing shows your eyelids impair your vision or function. Purely cosmetic procedures are not covered. We will help you understand what your plan requires.
Are the scars visible after eyelid surgery?
Incisions are usually placed in the natural eyelid crease or inside the eyelid, so scars typically fade and become difficult to see.
Doctors who provide this care
Nancy A. Morrison, M.D.
Pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus
- Pediatric & Strabismus
- Oculoplastics
Related care
Pediatric Eye Care
Gentle, expert eye care from infancy through the teen years.
Strabismus
Care for crossed, turned, or drifting eyes at any age.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
Check your vision and screen for silent eye disease.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for an exam. Call 911 for a medical emergency.
Ready to schedule?
Request an appointment online or call the office closest to you.
- Falls Church(703) 534-3900
- Fairfax(703) 620-2701
- Alexandria(703) 922-0906