Blepharospasm treatments offered at Lunata Eyelid and Cosmetic Surgery aim to gently treat uncontrollable eyelid twitching or spasms. Led by our board-certified oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, our treatments aim to restore comfort and normal eye function. Dr. Kasra Eliasieh’s light touch ensures results that feel as natural as they look.
When your eyelids twitch and spasm uncontrollably…
Blepharospasm is a condition in which the eyelids twitch or spasm involuntarily, often causing discomfort and difficulty with everyday tasks. This condition can range from mild, occasional twitching to more severe spasms that temporarily block your vision. Blepharospasm is usually linked to abnormal muscle activity around the eyes, and while the exact cause is unknown, it is often associated with stress, fatigue, or certain neurological conditions. If left untreated, these spasms can become more frequent, affecting your quality of life and overall eye health.
Hemifacial spasm is a similar condition characterized by involuntary, intermittent muscle contractions on one side of the face. Unlike blepharospasm, which affects both eyes, hemifacial spasm typically starts around the eye and can gradually spread to other facial muscles. It is often caused by irritation or compression of the facial nerve, commonly due to blood vessels near the nerve. Treatment options include BOTOX injections to relax the muscles or surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Benefits of blepharospasm treatments
- Reduced or eliminated uncontrollable eyelid twitching
- Improved comfort and ease of vision
- Minimally-invasive approach with a light touch
- Swift recovery and return to normal activities
- Long-lasting relief from chronic spasms
- Enhanced quality of life and daily function
- If surgery is indicated there will be minimal scarring with precise muscle adjustments
How do you treat blepharospasm?
The primary treatment for blepharospasm is BOTOX (botulinum toxin) injections, which temporarily relax the overactive muscles around the eyes. This helps reduce the frequency and intensity of involuntary spasms, providing relief for several months before repeat treatments are needed.
Other treatment options include:
- Medications: In some cases, oral medications such as muscle relaxants or anticholinergics may be prescribed, though their effectiveness can vary.
- Surgery: For more severe cases that do not respond well to Botox, a surgical procedure called myectomy can be considered. This involves removing some of the muscles responsible for the spasms to reduce or eliminate the symptoms. This delicate surgery requires a light touch to ensure precise results while preserving natural eye function. The goal is to restore comfort and improve your daily quality of life by allowing your eyes to function smoothly, free from the discomfort of constant twitching.
- Supportive Measures: Wearing tinted glasses to reduce light sensitivity and minimizing stress can help control the triggers of blepharospasm.
An individualized treatment plan will be developed based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s specific needs.
When will I see the results?
The effects of Botox injections for blepharospasm typically begin to appear within 3 to 7 days after treatment, with the full results noticeable around 2 weeks. The relief from muscle spasms usually lasts for 3 to 4 months, after which additional injections may be needed to maintain symptom control.
For those undergoing surgical treatment like a myectomy, recovery times vary, but improvements in spasms can be seen over several weeks as the area heals.
Each patient’s experience is unique, and Dr. Eliasieh will closely monitor your progress to ensure the best possible outcome.With proper aftercare, you can expect long-lasting relief and results that look and feel natural.
Schedule a consultation
Lunata Eyelid and Cosmetic Surgery is dedicated to helping you regain control over your eyelid function with gentle, effective blepharospasm treatments. Dr. Eliasieh’s light touch provides relief from involuntary twitching. Schedule a consultation at our Berkeley clinic to discuss how blepharospasm treatments can bring comfort and balance back to your eyes.
