Welcome to the plastic surgery practice of Alfred Cohen, M.D, located in Beverly Hills, If you are contemplating rejuvenating your look with eyelid surgery spend the next few minutes with us for insights on the procedure. Upper and lower eyelid surgery has the unique potential to turn back the hands of time for the entire face; the key is a natural-looking enhancement. Read on as the doctor provides answers to the most frequently asked questions on eyelid surgery.
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic and/or reconstructive surgical procedure focused on enhancing the appearance of the eyelids. It involves the removal or repositioning of excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids to address signs of aging, such as sagging, puffiness, and wrinkles. Beyond aesthetic improvements, eyelid surgery can also improve functional issues related to impaired vision caused by drooping eyelids.
What Does Upper Eyelid Surgery Address?
Upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, involves the removal of excess skin and fat deposits that may contribute to a tired or aged appearance. The procedure aims to rejuvenate the upper eyelids, creating a more refreshed and youthful look.
What Does Lower Eyelid Surgery Address?
Lower eyelid surgery is designed to address concerns such as under-eye bags, excess skin, and wrinkles. By carefully reshaping and repositioning tissues, lower blepharoplasty can enhance the lower eyelids, reducing signs of aging and restoring a smoother contour.
How Important is Personalized Treatment Planning in Eyelid Surgery?
Personalized treatment plans are paramount in eyelid surgery as every individual’s anatomy and aesthetic goals differ. An experienced surgeon takes the time to understand the patient’s concerns and tailors the procedure to achieve natural-looking and harmonious results that complement their overall facial features.
Are there any Medical or Vision Conditions that Would Prevent Someone from Undergoing Eyelid Surgery?
Medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, or certain autoimmune disorders may pose potential risks during surgery and the recovery process. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing eye conditions, severe dry eyes, or glaucoma should be thoroughly evaluated by an ophthalmologist before considering eyelid surgery.
Can Patients Undergo Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery at the Same Time?
Yes, it is common for patients to undergo both upper and lower eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, during the same surgical session. Combining these procedures allows for a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the entire eye area, addressing both upper eyelid hooding and lower eyelid concerns simultaneously.
This approach offers the advantage of a single recovery period, minimizing overall downtime. However, the decision to combine upper and lower eyelid surgery depends on various factors, including the patient’s anatomy, aesthetic goals, and the surgeon’s recommendation based on a thorough assessment during the consultation.
What Should Patients Expect During Recovery from Eyelid Surgery?
Recovery from eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, involves several stages, and patients can expect a gradual return to their normal activities. In the initial days following surgery, patients can expect:
- Swelling and Bruising – Swelling and bruising are common and vary from person to person. Applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help minimize these effects.
- Discomfort – Some discomfort or mild pain is typical. Prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications can manage this, and it typically lessens as the days progress.
- Stitches Removal – If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they are usually removed within a week. Dissolvable stitches don’t require removal.
- Avoiding Strain – Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over during the early recovery period.
Complete recovery may take several weeks, and the final results become more apparent as swelling continues to diminish. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Who Should Perform Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is best performed by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is trained in reconstructive facial plastic surgery. Certification from the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) are the platinum standard for expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgical training, experience, and ongoing professional development.
Plastic surgeons with ABOHNS and ABFPRS certifications possess a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy, specialized knowledge in eyelid procedures, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and care. This combination of qualifications ensures that the surgeon is well-equipped to address both the aesthetic and functional aspects of eyelid surgery, delivering optimal results with a focus on patient well-being.
Contact Us to Learn More
Dr. Alfred Cohen holds the distinction of being a fellowship member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and is board-certified with the American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
We invite you to begin your journey towards unveiling the aesthetic potential of eye rejuvenation by arranging a consultation for eyelid surgery at our Beverly Hills office. Dr. Cohen combines artistry and precision for eyes that are awakened with an appearance that looks natural, begin your exploration−Contact our office today.