Eyelid Cosmetic Surgery

The eyes have been described as the windows to the soul, and youthful eyes contribute significantly to our sense beauty and vitality. An important goal of facial plastic surgery is to draw attention to the eyes. In fact, makeup artists attempt to accentuate the eye and cheeks during their facial artistry. Unfortunately, the eyes are also one of the first areas of the face to show signs of aging. In some cases, excess upper eyelid skin and bulging bags under the eyes can be present in individuals as early as in their twenties. Fine wrinkles of the side of eye, (also known as crow’s feet) usually show up in the late twenties and early thirties. Cosmetic problems around the eye can be difficult to cover-up with makeup and can impart a tired or unhappy look.

The following information explains some of the many ways in which our board-certified plastic surgeon can improve the appearance around the eyes with successful results. If you would like to know more about eyelid surgery, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. John Vartanian, please contact us today.

Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper blepharoplasty)

Dr. Vartanian uses the latest eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) techniques to ensure natural-looking eyelid rejuvenation results that do not telegraph to others that plastic surgery has been performed. With upper blepharoplasty, excess skin and fat is removed and a permanent improvement can be achieved for the patient. The incision is hidden in the natural eyelid crease and quickly heals quite well. In the long-term, the incisions are often invisible or very difficult to notice in our patients. Blepharoplasty can eliminate the fatigued or tired look common to the aging eyes and give you a more youthful and rested appearance. Dr. Vartanian uses techniques, measuring calipers, and incision placements that typically produce natural symmetric results. Often, blepharoplasty can be combined with other skin rejuvenating procedures like lasers or facelift for optimal outcomes. In many blepharoplasty cases, the procedure can be done in the office quite comfortably under local anesthesia (numbing the eyelids) without the need to be put to sleep or to go to a surgical center.

Upper Eyelid Repair and Restoration

Dr. Vartanian can repair complex eyelid problems resulting from droopy upper lids (ptosis repair), poor lower lid support (retraction/ectropion repair), and correction of scarring from previous eyelid surgery. Some individuals may experience obstructed vision from overly redundant upper eyelid skin. In such cases, blepharoplasty or other procedures can become a medical necessity and may be reimbursable by third party payers (such as your insurance carrier) when visual field obstruction can be clearly documented. Eyelid repairs after cancer surgery or trauma can also be repaired.

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Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower eyelid bags and excess loose skin can also make an individual look tired or unwell. Undereye fat can often be corrected and “cleaned up” without any skin incisions. In most cases, small incisions placed through the inside of the lower eyelid can be used to rejuvenate lower eyelid bags and fat “pooches.” Through small incisions placed in the inside of the lower lid, the lower eyelid fat can removed without cuts on the skin. The skin under the eyelid area can also be rejuvenated using laser resurfacing and/or with dermal fillers. In some cases, excess lower lid skin can be addressed by removal of the extra skin to improve the appearance of the lower eyelid skin. Each case is unique and Dr. Vartanian can share with you the best solution for your undereye problem.

Lower Eyelid Fat Repositioning

Dr. Vartanian also performs lower eyelid fat repositioning, where extra lower eyelid fat is freed from its attachments, and moved down to “fill-in” depressions under the eyes (tear-trough deformity). This procedure can be used to create a youthful look that has been taken away by the appearance of lower eyelid bulges. This procedure can also be used in patients who have deep sunken depressions under their eyes. In selected cases, younger patients who may have had deep sunken eyes even during their youth can benefit from this procedure.

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“Asian” Eyelid Surgery

Dr. Vartanian also performs advanced eyelid plastic surgical procedures. Based on patient preference, “Asian” eyelids can be enhanced by creation of a subtle double-lid look or by eliminating extra upper lid fullness. The many varieties of the “Asian” eyelid require careful attention to patient requests, facial features, and to achieving optimal symmetry. Dr. Vartanian also uses the minimal incision suture asian eyelid fold creation technique.

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can also be combined with procedures designed to elevate the brows (endoscopic browlift) or in conjunction with facial rejuvenation (facelift, face peel). There are limitations to improvements achieved through eyelid surgery – as in any medical procedure. Fine wrinkles of the lateral crow’s feet area will not gain an appreciable benefit from blepharoplasty alone and may be better treated with other modalities (like BOTOX® Cosmetic, Restylane® or skin resurfacing). These and other details are discussed in depth during your personalized consultation with Dr. Vartanian.

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What to Expect

  • Length of Procedure? Eyelid surgery can take from one to two hours to complete, possibly longer if both the upper and lower eyelid areas are being treated. The length of the procedure will depend on your unique needs.
    Who performs the procedure? Dr. Vartanian performs all eyelid surgery procedures.
  • What should I expect during recovery? Recovery will vary per individual, but you can expect some degree of bruising, swelling, and minimal discomfort (which can be controlled with medication). You will be advised to limit any activities that may cause eye strain for several days after surgery.
  • How about results? The best results from eyelid surgery will be apparent once the healing process is complete. The areas around your eyes should look smoother and more refreshed, which can ultimately have a positive effect on your entire facial appearance.

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Schedule Your Consultation

For more information on eyelid surgery, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vartanian, please contact our office today.