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What Is Eyelid Surgery?

eyelid surgeryIf you are tired of people misinterpreting your facial expressions or using makeup and other beauty treatments to mask the appearance of hooded and sleepy eyes or wrinkles and under-eye bags that make you look older than you are, it is time for you to consider eyelid surgery. It is a highly popular treatment that can transform the appearance and function of the eyes. Aging is a side effect of living that we cannot escape, no matter how we try. Though there are ways to counteract some symptoms of aging on the skin, especially around the eyes, such as makeup, supplements, etc., none are as effective and long-lasting as the eyelid tuck.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery effectively erases the effects of time on the eyelids and surrounding eye tissues to provide a more natural and attractive appearance. The procedure gets rid of dark circles under the eyes and smooths and contours the eye area to shave years off the patient’s appearance. Unlike older and more traditional surgical options for eyelids that often result in a gaunt and hollow appearance and other undesirable complications, Dr. Hershcovitch, M.D., uses industry proven techniques and his many years of experience to sculpt each patient’s eyelids to give them the natural and long-term results they desire.

Types of Blepharoplasty

The eyelid tuck procedure modifies the physical structure of the eyelids to improve their appearance and function. Dr. Hershcovitch adds or removes lines in the eyelids and makes minor alterations to the skin surrounding the eyes and supporting eye muscles. Because everyone’s situation is unique, Dr. Hershcovitch offers the following eyelid surgery procedures.

Upper Eyelid Tuck: This procedure is performed on the upper eyelids to improve visual fields and tighten loose, sagging, and hooded eye skin. Dr. Hershcovitch makes tiny incisions into the utmost layers of the skin to remove excess fat deposits and skin that obscure vision. Before completing the surgery, he may also alter the shape and position of the eyelid and add fat pads to keep the skin from drooping and hanging over the eyes to reverse the signs of premature aging.

Lower Blepharoplasty: This procedure is performed on the transconjunctival and transcutaneous layers of the lower eyelid. Transconjunctival surgery involves removing fat pads from outer ridge or edge of lower lash line. Depending on the circumstance, it may also include altering the supporting muscles to tighten and shrink the skin. The transcutaneous version is performed inside of the eyelid for minimal scarring and follow the same process as lash line surgery.

To prevent patients from developing a starved and gaunt look, Dr. Hershcovitch redistributes the excess fat tissues to smooth the skin in the undereye area. It is highly effective at reducing the appearance under eye circles and bags as well.

Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery: It is not uncommon for patients to have different eyelid structures that are responsive to a combination of eyelid surgery techniques. Both the upper and lower procedures can be performed during the same operation. They can also be with other cosmetic antiaging treatments, such as brow and facial lifts. All blepharoplasty options are minimally invasive. The average time to complete each procedure is under two hours.

What to Expect After Eyelid Surgery?

what is eyelid surgeryDuring the recovery period, patients should consider the following factors:

  • There is minimal downtime. Most patients resume their usual activities within a few hours of their procedures.
  • It is common to experience minor pain and discomfort after surgery. Acetaminophen and NSAIDs are highly effective solutions that some patients use throughout their recoveries.
  • Some bruising, skin discoloration, and minor irritations are normal. The symptoms generally resolve within seven to 10 days. It may take slightly more or less time for those issues to disappear, depending on the patient and other considerations.
  • Proper post-operative care and follow-up appointments are critical. Failure to properly care and clean the surgical areas/eyes or attend follow-up appointments with Dr. Herschcovitch can lead to complications and less than desirable results.
  • The results are not immediately obvious and take time to appear. Most eyelid surgery patients notice the most dramatic changes in the appearance of their eyes within six months. Some people notice them sooner.

Results and Risks

Just like any surgical procedure, there are risks that can impact overall experience and outcome. The risks of complications and side effects is rare. In extremely rare cases, complications can lead to serious medical concerns.

Common risks associated with eyelid surgery include:

  • Bruising
  • Hematomas
  • Inflammation
  • Uneven eyelids
  • Chronic dry eyes
  • Poor eye mechanics
  • Excessive swelling
  • Eye irritations
  • Blurred or impaired eyesight
  • Lid ectropion or lag
  • Delayed healing

To reduce the risks of complications, Dr. Hershcovitch provides each potential patient with a thorough medical evaluation to discuss expectations, concerns, costs, and concerns. He also provides them with a treatment plan so they can make the best-informed decision regarding their situation. Patients should also follow all pre- and post-operative care plans to facilitate a faster recovery and optimal results. Eyelid surgery is not suitable for everyone. Underlying health conditions and other factors can affect one’s candidacy for the procedure. Alternative solutions are available.

Contact Us

To learn if eyelid surgery is the solution to cosmetic or functional eye concerns, call our plastic surgery center at (818) 206-2539 or visit our website to schedule a consultation with our double-board certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Herschcovitch, M.D.