Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Conveniently located to serve West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Wellington, & Boca Raton.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Benefits
Undergoing eyelid lift surgery offers numerous benefits, including the removal of excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. This results in a more youthful and less tired appearance, which can enhance self-confidence. Additionally, for those who experience vision obstruction due to excess upper lid skin, blepharoplasty can improve their sightlines.
Am I a Candidate for Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)?
Ideal candidates for eyelid lift surgery are individuals in good overall health, with realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcome. Those who have excess eyelid skin, under-eye bags, or drooping eyelids are candidates. However, it’s important to note that individuals with certain medical conditions, such as dry eyes or thyroid issues, should consult with a facial plastic surgeon to discuss their suitability for the procedure, and determine if you are a good candidate.
Upper Eyelid Lift
An upper eyelid surgery involves making an incision along the natural crease of the upper lid, allowing the surgeon to remove excess skin and fat. This procedure restores a more youthful appearance by addressing drooping, sagging, and excess skin in the upper eyelids. It is important to choose a double board-certified surgeon, like Dr. Cleveland, to ensure the best possible results for your upper eyelid blepharoplasty.
Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation
Lower eyelid rejuvenation targets the under-eye area, where excess orbital fat and skin can create bags, bulges, and wrinkles. Dr. Cleveland uses a precise incision beneath the lash line or inside the lower lid for fat removal or to reposition the excess fat. When the lower lid margin has too much elasticity a canthopexy can be required to help support the lid margin. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty results in a smoother, more youthful under-eye appearance.
Upper Blepharoplasty Anatomy
Understanding the anatomy of the upper eyelid is crucial to achieving optimal results in eyelid surgery. The structures that lead to sagging of the upper eyelid skin consist of the skin and fat of the upper eyelid, as well as the orbicularis occuli muscle which is responsible for closing the eye. Depending on your individual anatomy 1 or all of these structures can require alteration. The key to a beautiful upper eyelid is to remove the redundant tissue so the eyelid platform shows symmetrically, and isn’t hidden below the sagging skin. This is done while hiding the incision and sutures in the natural eyelid crease so the resulting scar is not visible. Dr. Cleveland is careful to tailor each patient’s surgery to their needs to create a natural rejuvenation.
Does Blepharoplasty Fix a Droopy Eyebrow?
While blepharoplasty can address excess skin and fat in the upper eyelid, it does not directly address a droopy eyebrow, also known as brow ptosis. A separate procedure, such as a temple lift or endoscopic brow lift, may be recommended to correct this drooping. The upper eyelid and brow should be viewed together in facial rejuvenation, as they frequently droop down together. They should be analyzed together as the upper eyelid and eyebrow work as a unit and ignoring a drooping eyebrow can lead to sub-optimal results in upper lid surgery when it is indicated. Dr. Cleveland can discuss the best options for achieving the desired results during a consultation.
What is Ptosis?
Ptosis refers to the drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid, often caused by weakened or stretched muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid. This is different from the loose upper lid skin that causes the aging appearance of the upper eyelid, and instead involves droopy eyelids that look sleepy. In some cases, something as simple as eyedrops Dr. Cleveland can prescribe will correct mild cases of this. If more severe drooping of the eyelid is present creating a sleepy appearance then tightening these muscles is likely required to improve your visual field and create a more alert appearance. Dr. Cleveland’s expertise in facial plastic surgery ensures a thorough evaluation and if surgery is required Dr. Cleveland can refer you to a reconstructive surgeon to correct this.
Types of Lower Lid Rejuvenation
There are several approaches to lower lid rejuvenation, including transconjunctival blepharoplasty (removing or repositioning fat through an incision inside the lower lid) and subciliary blepharoplasty (removing excess skin and fat through an incision beneath the lash line). Also depending on the fat and tear through anatomy in some cases it is better to reposition the fat to transition the lower lid into the cheek as opposed to removing it. Dr. Cleveland will determine the most suitable technique based on the patient’s individual needs and desired outcome.
Combining Procedures
Patients frequently choose to combine a blepharoplasty procedure in conjunction with other facial plastic surgery procedures, such as facelifts or brow lifts, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Dr. Cleveland can discuss the benefits and considerations of combining procedures during a consultation, ensuring a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s goals.
Real Patient Testimonials: Personal Experiences with Blepharoplasty
Hearing from patients who have undergone an eyelid lift with Dr. Cleveland can provide valuable insight into the surgical procedure and the level of care you can expect from his practice. These personal experiences showcase the life-changing impact that expertly performed facial plastic surgery can have on a patient’s self-confidence and overall quality of life.
Anesthesia Options
Upper Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s preference. Lower blepharoplasty is typically done under general anesthesia as this area is more sensitive. Dr. Cleveland will discuss the best anesthesia option for each patient during their consultation, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the cosmetic procedure.
Blepharoplasty Recovery: What to Expect
Following eyelid surgery, patients can expect some swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within one to two weeks. Dr. Cleveland will provide detailed postoperative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and quick healing. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within 7-10 days, and have minimal discomfort with full results becoming visible after a few weeks as the swelling subsides. Any swelling and bruising is usually easily covered up with sunglasses to get through the first week after surgery.
Preparing for Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation
Before your consultation with Dr. Cleveland, it’s essential to gather relevant information and prepare any questions you may have about the procedure. Consider your aesthetic goals and any concerns you might have about your eyelids appearance or function. During your consultation, Dr. Cleveland will discuss your individual needs, perform a thorough examination of your eyelid anatomy, and present a customized treatment plan for your eyelid rejuvenation. This is an excellent opportunity to address any questions or concerns and ensure you feel confident in your decision to undergo eyelid surgery.
Financing Options for Eyelid Surgery
We understand that cost can be a concern for many patients considering blepharoplasty. At Patrick Cleveland Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of financing options to help make this transformative procedure more accessible. Our team will work with you to determine the best financing solution for your unique situation.
Is Blepharoplasty Covered by Insurance?
Blepharoplasty is only covered by insurance when it is a functional procedure. What this means is to qualify for a functional blepharoplasty the eyelid skin must be hanging down over the eyelashes far enough to block your vision. To document this the insurance company will typically require an ophthalmologist to perform a visual field test, and for you to go to a surgeon in-network that takes insurance. Note the goals of a functional blepharoplasty are different from a cosmetic blepharoplasty, as the amount of skin removed is enough to restore vision, not necessarily to create the most rejuvenated upper lid. Insurance companies will not pay for the cosmetic eyelid surgery Dr. Cleveland specializes in so he is not in-network with any insurance companies.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Blepharoplasty
Selecting a double board-certified surgeon as well as a fellowship trained facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Cleveland is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome. His extensive training and expertise in peri-ocular procedures, combined with his commitment to patient satisfaction, make him the ideal choice for your eyelid surgery.
When choosing a blepharoplasty surgeon, consider their credentials, experience, and the quality of their previous work. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and concerns, and ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in your surgeon’s abilities.
Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consult Today
Dr. Cleveland is one of the top rated Blepharoplasty surgeons in South Florida, and one of the only that was fellowship trained by the leaders of the field in Manhattan. He has been internationally recognized for his expertise and invited to speak to surgeons from around the world. If you believe that an eyelid lift may be the right choice for you, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patrick Cleveland in Palm Beach county. A consultation with him will provide you with valuable insight into your options and a deeper understanding of all facets of your eyelids and your surgery experience. He will carefully assess your needs and goals, providing expert guidance and personalized care to ensure the best possible outcome and once you decide you are ready for surgery, he will be there to give you the refreshed look you are looking for.