If you’re exhausted with looking exhausted, tired of being asked if you’re tired, or generally unhappy with the appearance of your eyes, you may be a candidate for eye lift surgery.
Blepharoplasty can correct sagging, drooping, and generally tired-looking eyes. By removing a bit of skin and fat from the area, your eyes can appear more youthful and awake. If you find that you look tired no matter how well-rested you are, blepharoplasty may be your ideal option for achieving the fresh look you desire. 
While many of our patients choose this procedure to correct sagging facial skin after the age of 40, eye lift surgery can change your life by giving you the self-confidence of a rejuvenated appearance at any age. In extreme cases, the eyelid skin may even droop far enough to partially obscure your view of the world, and a blepharoplasty will open up your field of vision.
Whatever your reasons, we encourage you to investigate the procedure thoroughly before making the decision to pursue it. Please call us to schedule an appointment if you have any questions. Unlike many plastic surgeons in New York City, we are happy to offer you a detailed consultation free of charge.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty (commonly known as eye lift surgery) is usually done for cosmetic reasons, and aims to tighten and rejuvenate the skin of the eyelids. Droopy eyelids, sagging skin, and bags under the eyes can all be addressed here in our beautiful Manhattan or Great Neck offices using either a local anesthetic or a general anesthesia.
What Will My Blepharoplasty Cost?
Financing Your Blepharoplasty
In today’s unfortunate economy, many people worry that they can’t afford a procedure that is not medically necessary – regardless of the positive impact it can make in their lives. Aristocrat is pleased to offer financing options that can make plastic surgery accessible to those who might otherwise be unable to achieve the beauty and wellness they desire.
WIll Blepharoplasty Be Covered By My Insurance?
Some of our patients have eyelids that actually compromise their field of vision. If your eyelids actually droop down over your eyes, and your ophthalmologist determines that your surgery is medically necessary, your insurance may cover your procedure. Please note that Dr. Tehrani does not participate in any HMOs – but feel free to call us if you have any questions about your specific policy.
Out Of Pocket Blepharoplasty Cost
The cost of your surgery will depend largely on the specific procedure you choose and whether you are seen as an inpatient (general anesthesia) or an outpatient (local anesthetic). Please don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation in our office to discuss your surgical options.
Should I get an upper or a lower blepharoplasty?
Upper Blepharoplasty
If your upper eyelids appear hooded, heavy, or just too thick, you may want to consider an upper blepharoplasty. A small incision will be made in the crease of your upper eyelid, where Dr. Tehrani will remove a small bit of flesh, refreshing your look as if you’ve just gotten a good night’s sleep. Because the incision is placed in the natural crease of the eyelid, the tiny scar will eventually fade to near invisibility. An upper blepharoplasty can be paired with an endoscopic brow lift to lift both the brow and the eyelid. There are also transconjunctival blepharoplasties where an incision is made on the inside – so you will never see a scar on the outside.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty is an excellent way to combat the troublesome bags under your eyes that can make you look fatigued even on your best day. Dr. Tehrani will make a small incision either just below the lower lashes or on the inside of the lower eyelid, and remove a tiny bit of fat, eliminating the puffiness that causes dark shadows. Please note that this will resolve an actual shadow, while other procedures may be used to combat skin discoloration. It is also important to be aware that puffiness caused by allergies and other such conditions cannot be relieved by blepharoplasty.
Will Eye Lift Surgery Affect My Vision?
While you may experience blurred vision and light sensitivity for a few days after your surgery, blepharoplasty will not affect your vision in the long term. If your eyelids were previously heavy enough to partially obscure your vision, you’ll be quite happy with how much more of the world you’ll be able to see!
What Can I Expect After Blepharoplasty Surgery?
Recovery Period:
While no overnight hospital stay is required, you may wish to have someone stay with you the evening after the surgery – and you will definitely need a ride home from the doctor’s office. You will be able to close your eyes normally, but your vision may be blurry and you may experience sensitivity to light for a few days. Stitches are usually removed about a week later during your follow up examination. Swelling and bruising may last up to two weeks. Scarring may take a few months to fade, but will be nearly invisible eventually.
How Soon Can I Return To My Daily Routine?
Work
Returning to work depends greatly on what sort of work you do and how you react to the procedure. Sitting in front of a computer is not recommended while your eyes are sensitive to light or your vision is blurry, which can often last for a few days. Strenuous physical activity isn’t recommended for the first week after surgery. Some patients simply don’t wish to be seen in public while their eyes are still bruised or swollen, which can last for a week or two. Sunglasses can help hide your eyes if you feel uncomfortable with your appearance during this time, but you should not wear makeup until your stitches are removed. In general, most patients return to work when they feel good, are able to see clearly, and are comfortable doing so.
Driving
You may drive when your vision is unimpaired and you are able to see clearly. Ultimately, this time can vary from patient to patient, but is usually OK within a few days.
Bathing
You’ll be given specific instructions for how to clean your face and eyes after the surgery, but in general, bathing or showers are not recommended until you are seen at your first post-op visit, which can be anywhere between 2-4 days after your surgery.
Makeup
You can usually wear makeup within a week or two after your surgery – but definitely not before your stitches are removed.
Exercise
Heavy exercise or physical strain should be avoided for at least a week after your surgery.
Contact Lenses
Contact lenses may not be worn for at least a week after your procedure – possibly even more. Glasses, however, can be used right away.
Sunglasses are recommended, as you may find that your eyes are sensitive to light.
Scarring
Worried about blepharoplasty scars? Good news; this procedure involves minimal scarring. In fact, because the skin of the eyelids is so very thin, it heals faster than the skin on the rest of your body. What little scarring there is will eventually fade into the folds of your eyelids and become nearly undetectable. There are also transconjunctival blepharoplasties where an incision is made on the inside so you will never see a scar on the outside.
Bruising
Some bruising is not uncommon immediately after the procedure. If you are diligent about cold compresses, you can help reduce bruising. Many of our clients prefer to wear dark glasses for several days during recovery to keep their bruises hidden.
Change in appearance
Most of our patients choose a blepharoplasty to bring renewed vitality to the appearance of their eyes, so yes, your appearance will improve. Your eyes will look youthful, natural, and awake – but without drastic changes or an affected “surprised” expression. Rest assured that your loved ones will still be able to recognize you!
Will A Blepharoplasty Give Me Permanent Results
Blepharoplasty does not require regular “upkeep” in order to remain effective. Once removed, the unwanted tissue will not grow back. Most of our patients will never have a second eye lift surgery. However, skin naturally loses its elasticity as the body ages, so some patients do wish to have their look touched up after 15-20 years.
Is Blepharoplasty Surgery Painful?
Dr. Tehrani will prescribe pain medication if you require it, but most patients experience very little pain after eye lift surgery – if any at all. You can minimize swelling by applying cold compresses and keeping your head elevated for a few days. In the unlikely event that you experience a great deal of pain in just one eye, call our office immediately or go to an emergency room. You may have unexpected bleeding, and require immediate attention to prevent permanent damage.
What Are The Risks Of Eye Lift Surgery?
While any surgery involves risks such as infection, blood clots, and reactions to anesthesia, risks specific to eye lift procedure are minimal. The most common negative side effects of blepharoplasty are blurred vision and a burning sensation for a few days after the procedure.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking – particularly anything that may affect your ability to clot or heal. Also be sure to discuss any other medical conditions you might have – particularly ophthalmic conditions such as glaucoma or detached retina.
Pain should be minimal. Be sure to notify us immediately if you experience a great deal of pain – especially on one side only – as this can be indicative of bleeding, and should be addressed immediately either in our office or in the emergency room. If left unaddressed, excessive bleeding can result in permanent blindness.
CONCLUSION:
We hope that we’ve been able to answer some of your questions about blepharoplasty surgery. Your health, well being, and self-confidence is of the utmost importance, and the decision should not be taken lightly. As one of the most respected plastic surgeons in New York, Dr. Tehrani can help guide you through any further questions you may have, and ensure that you’re totally comfortable with the process. No amount of research will give you more thorough information than a visit to our office. Call our office today to schedule your free consultation and start down the road to a refreshed, revitalized appearance.