Eyelid Surgery Questions

A good plastic surgeon should have the credentials to put you at ease. Dr. Pakeman is double board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and by Canada’s Royal College of Surgeons. He is also a fellow of The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and a diplomat of The American Academy of Ophthalmology.

The great news is that eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is not a painful procedure. It is performed under local anesthesia with optional IV sedation, so you won’t feel any discomfort during the surgery itself. Post- operatively, most patients report only mild discomfort or a feeling of tightness, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol. Significant pain is rare, and we provide detailed instructions to ensure you are comfortable throughout your recovery.

While you’ll notice an immediate improvement right after surgery, the area will be swollen and bruised. The full, final, and most refined results of your eyelid surgery in NYC will become visible once all swelling and bruising have completely subsided, which typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks. However, the subtle healing process continues for several months, with excellent results visible by the three-month mark.

A cosmetic surgeon should take pride in the work he or she does and have no hesitation in showing off results. A full before-and-after gallery of blepharoplasty results should be readily available so you can observe the kinds of results your surgeon has achieved in his or her patients.

This is a key distinction. Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift surgery) addresses excess skin, fat, and muscle on the eyelids themselves (both upper and lower). A brow lift, on the other hand, raises the position of a drooping brow (the forehead area just above the eye socket). These procedures are frequently performed together for a more comprehensive and harmonious result, significantly improving the overall appearance of the upper face.

The term ptosis (pronounced toe-sis) refers specifically to the drooping of the upper eyelid caused by a weakened muscle, known as the levator muscle. When a person has ptosis, the actual edge of the upper eyelid covers more of the eye than normal, sometimes obstructing vision. This condition is different from having just excess skin and requires a specific type of surgery (ptosis repair) to carefully tighten the muscle and lift the eyelid margin.

The total duration of the surgery is quite reasonable, but it depends on the extent of the work. The procedure generally takes about one to two hours to complete your eyelid surgery in NYC. A single upper or lower eyelid procedure will be closer to an hour, while a combination procedure (upper and lower on both eyes) may take closer to two hours. This is the operating time; plan to be at the facility for a few hours total for preparation and recovery.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, but serious complications are extremely uncommon with an experienced, board-certified surgeon. The most common and temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, mild discomfort, dry eyes, or a temporary feeling of tightness. Less common risks include delayed healing or infection. We will thoroughly review all potential risks, but rest assured that eyelid surgery has an excellent safety record.

To ensure the sensitive eye area is not irritated and to allow for proper healing, it’s strongly recommended to wear glasses instead of contact lenses for about two weeks following your eyelid surgery in New York. The process of inserting and removing lenses can put unwanted strain and pressure on the healing incisions. Your surgeon will advise you when you can safely return to wearing your contacts after the initial two weeks.

It’s common and normal to experience temporary changes in your vision immediately after your eyelid surgery in Manhattan. This can include temporary blurred or double vision and increased light sensitivity. These effects are usually minor and typically resolve within a few days as the initial swelling begins to decrease. Lubricating ointment applied after the procedure can also contribute to temporary blurriness, which is a normal part of the process.

To prevent increased swelling, bruising, and elevated blood pressure, you must avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least two to three weeks after your eyelid lift surgery. However, light walking is encouraged a few days after your procedure, as it helps with circulation and recovery. We recommend a gradual return to your normal exercise routine after the three-week mark, with your surgeon’s final approval.

Eyelid surgery in New York City is most commonly performed using local anesthesia with intravenous (IV) sedation. This excellent choice means the area is numb, and you will be completely relaxed and typically unaware of the procedure, but you are not fully unconscious. This type of anesthesia is safer, requires less recovery time, and allows for a faster and smoother recovery on the day of your surgery.

Yes, eyelid surgery is a common outpatient procedure. This means the surgery is performed in our Manhattan based Joint Commission™ accredited surgical facility, and you are able to go home the very same day shortly after your procedure and a brief period of recovery. It is not performed in a hospital setting and does not require an overnight stay.

Absolutely. Eyelid surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for men. Men often seek blepharoplasty to achieve a more rested, alert, and vibrant appearance by removing the tired or heavy look caused by drooping eyelids and under-eye bags. The technique is slightly modified to ensure the results maintain a masculine and natural appearance without feminizing the facial features.

The difference is in the primary reason for the surgery:

• A Cosmetic Blepharoplasty is performed solely to improve the aesthetic appearance of the eyelids, reducing signs of aging and creating a brighter look.
• A Functional Blepharoplasty is performed when drooping upper eyelids interfere with a person’s vision, blocking their peripheral or superior field of sight. When this is the case, the procedure may be deemed medically necessary and may be covered by insurance.

Preparing properly is crucial for a smooth recovery. For two weeks before your procedure, you must stop taking any blood-thinning medications and supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and high-dose vitamin E or fish oil, as these can increase bruising. You must also quit smoking well in advance, as nicotine severely impedes the healing process. Your surgeon will provide a comprehensive list of all medications and supplements to avoid.

Fortunately, you won’t have to wear any bulky or restrictive surgical dressings after your blepharoplasty in NY. Typically, your surgeon will place a light, thin dressing or a soothing antibiotic ointment on the incision lines. You will simply use the prescribed ointment and cold compresses at home. Your surgeon will provide specific, easy-to-follow instructions on how to gently care for the area and keep it clean during your recovery.