Sagging eyelids can make you appear tired all the time and can even interfere with your vision. Excess skin on the lower eyelids can make you look older. Dr. Robert Kearney performs facial surgery, including eyelid lifts, on his patients in San Diego and La Jolla to address sagging skin on the eyelids and around the eyes.
What is an eyelid lift?
An eyelid lift, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids and rejuvenates the area around the eyes. Specifically, it treats drooping and sagging upper eyelids, excess skin and fine wrinkles on the lower eyelids, bags under the eyes, and excess fatty deposits in both eyelids. A blepharoplasty gives patients a more youthful, rested look.
What can I expect during the eyelid lift procedure?
During an upper eyelid surgery, the incision is made in the natural fold of the lid, and excess skin and fat are removed. For lower eyelid surgery the incision is made below the lower lashes or inside the eyelid, depending on the patient’s preference. Excess skin and fat are then removed. If the incision is made inside the eyelid, no external scar will be present after surgery.
What can I expect post procedure and what is the recovery time for blepharoplasty?
Patients usually go home the same day of their surgery. Expect to have some bruising and swelling for a week or two. Sutures are typically removed within a week. Most blepharoplasty patients can resume work within a week and get back to their regular activities within three to four weeks. Patients may wear contact lenses again when it is comfortable for them to do so – usually within a week.
Will I Have Scars After My Eyelid Lift?
Surgical scars are inevitable because the skin is cut to achieve the necessary improvements. Dr. Kearney performs all surgical procedures using the most discreet, conservative incision patterns possible. For upper blepharoplasty procedures, this usually involves short incisions in the natural crease of the lid. A lower blepharoplasty incision may be made right along the lash line or just inside the lower lid. In each case, upper and lower blepharoplasty, the scars that form after surgery tend to be very thin, flat, and light. They aren't noticeable to anyone who isn't intently looking for them.
Is Blepharoplasty the Right Procedure for Me?
If your eyes don't look as bright and energetic as they used to, you may be exploring a few different treatment options. Should you get blepharoplasty or turn to injectable treatments to address your concerns? Is an eyelid lift the right approach to addressing what most concerns you? Your consultation with Dr. Kearney will help you find the answers to these questions and more. After listening to your objectives and examining the tissue around your eyes and forehead area, the doctor can discuss whether or not injectables can achieve satisfying improvements. He can also discuss the goals and limitations of the eyelid lift procedure. Sometimes, especially with upper eyelid hooding, the best approach is a brow lift, not an eyelid lift. If you have deep creases at the outer corners of your eyes, this may be an indication of brow ptosis, for which a brow lift or injectables may be the best solution.
Can I Combine an Eyelid Lift with Other Procedures?
Yes! Eyelid rejuvenation surgery is an excellent compliment to other procedures, including a brow lift, injectables, a facelift, even a neck lift. It's very common for patients to combine various forms of facial rejuvenation. Doing so maximizes treatment outcomes without extending the recovery period.
Are My Eyelid Lift Results Permanent?
In one way, the results of eyelid surgery are permanent. Skin is removed and does not get replaced with new tissue. Most people who have blepharoplasty surgery never need to have this same procedure repeated. That said, the signs of aging will recur at some point. This may not occur for more than 15 years after the eyelid lift. To maintain optimal tissue behavior, you can wear appropriate sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide hat when you're outdoors. Nonsurgical treatments can also prolong the effects of your eyelid lift. We're happy to talk with you about the best ways to manage your aging skin after blepharoplasty surgery. Just give us a call!
How much does an eyelid lift cost?
Prices vary from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the surgery. To know the exact price of your eyelid lift, please contact us for a consultation.
Financing is also offered by CareCredit with patients able to finance up to $25,000. CareCredit offers our patients 6, 12 and 18 month no interest plans as well as plans with terms of up to 60 months at 14.9%. You can apply today by calling (800) 365-8295 or visiting www.carecredit.com.
Why Choose Dr. Robert Kearney for Eyelid Surgery
Dr. Robert Kearney is a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of specialized experience helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals with precision and care. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Kearney brings significant expertise to every procedure. His meticulous approach to eyelid surgery ensures that patients receive natural-looking results while addressing concerns. By combining his advanced surgical skills with a keen aesthetic eye, Dr. Kearney helps restore a refreshed, youthful appearance while prioritizing safety and comfort.
Known for his patient-centered care, Dr. Kearney aims to understand each patient’s desired outcomes. His practice focuses on creating a supportive and welcoming environment where patients feel confident in their treatment plan, from consultation to recovery. With a proven record of excellent results, Dr. Kearney’s reputation as a skilled and compassionate surgeon makes him a top choice for eyelid surgery. Patients trust his expertise to rejuvenate their eyes and enhance facial harmony with beautiful, lasting results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How soon will I see the results of the eyelid surgery?
Initial results will be visible when the swelling and bruising begin to subside, typically within one to two weeks. Full results, with a smoother and refreshed appearance, can take four to six weeks as the tissues fully heal.
How should I prepare for eyelid surgery?
To prepare, avoid blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and smoking for at least two weeks before surgery. Arrange for someone to drive you home, and organize a recovery space with ice packs, soft foods, and any prescribed medications.
How can I alleviate swelling and bruising after surgery?
Keep your head elevated while resting, apply cold compresses or ice packs as directed, and avoid strenuous activities for the first week. Staying hydrated and following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions will also help minimize swelling and bruising.
Will eyelid surgery remove dark circles under the eyes?
Eyelid surgery can address puffiness and excess skin but may not eliminate dark circles, often caused by pigmentation or thinning skin. Additional treatments like fillers or skin resurfacing may be recommended for persistent dark circles.
How long does the procedure take?
Eyelid surgery is generally one to two hours, depending on whether you are getting an upper eyelid lift, lower eyelid lift, or both. The duration may also vary based on the complexity of the procedure.
How do I maintain my results after eyelid surgery?
Protect your skin from sun exposure by always applying sunscreen and wearing sunglasses, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent premature aging. Staying hydrated, using quality skincare products, and avoiding smoking can help preserve your results.
Can eyelid surgery help with chronic eye fatigue?
Eyelid surgery can help alleviate chronic eye fatigue caused by drooping upper eyelids or heavy skin obstructing vision. By removing excess tissue, the procedure reduces strain and restores a more refreshed, awake appearance.
Get a Bright, Youthful Look with an Eyelid Lift in San Diego, CA
San Diego facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kearney is happy to discuss his blepharoplasty procedure techniques and results with you. For more information on the eyelid lift procedure in La Jolla and San Diego or to find out if it is right for you, contact our office today.
