Eyelid surgery is one of my favorite operations because it provides patients with dramatic and permanent improvements with faster recovery and lower costs than other facial operations. Over the past decade, I’ve developed expertise in cosmetic facial procedures for eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) patients in Los Angeles.
Upper eyelids: For my patients in Los Angeles, blepharoplasty usually involves removing an ellipse of excess upper eyelid skin. The scar heals beautifully and is hidden in the eyelid crease. In patients with bulging upper eyelid fat, I remove a small amount through the same incision. I take care not to overdo fat removal because hollowing of the upper eyelids may also make a person appear older.
Lower eyelids: For the lower eyelids, I usually make a small incision behind the eyelid where it is not visible. I remove some of the excess fat that contributes to the appearance of bags on the lower lids. For tear troughs, I place Restylane® under the skin to fill in the valley. Restylane is a safe injectable gel that’s effective at restoring lost volume in the face and absorbed within about 6 months. For lower eyelid wrinkles, some patients benefit from resurfacing with a laser or chemical peel to tighten and smooth the skin. In cases where there are excessive folds of lower eyelid skin, I’ll remove the excess through an incision under the lower eyelash line.
Candidates
The eyelids are one of the first areas of the face to show signs of aging. Skin tone diminishes, causing the upper eyelids to droop toward the lash line. Eyes appear slit-like rather than round and youthful. Bulges of fat may become prominent, causing puffy upper eyelids and baggy lower lids. Tear troughs can form on the lower lids next to the nose as facial fat descends with time and gravity.
Candidates for blepharoplasty are concerned that their eyes are beginning to appear tired, old, or even angry. Some patients are bothered by comments from others; some feel they may be less competitive in the workforce.
It’s common for patients to combine blepharoplasty with a face lift or brow lift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Educated at some of the most elite institutions in the country, Dr. David Stoker uses his highly advanced knowledge to ensure that each patient achieves beautiful, harmonious results — whether it's through a simple non-surgical procedure or a more advanced surgical transformation. Learn more about his unique credentials and his approach to plastic surgery.
Eyelid surgery may be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. In my consultation with patients, I help them decide their best anesthesia option for comfort and safety.
Blepharoplasty
Recovery
Eyelids heal quickly, so recovery from blepharoplasty tends to be fast. Normally I like patients to rest for a few days before returning to their normal activities. Keeping the head elevated and using ice compresses are very effective at minimizing swelling. Some patients develop small bruises that may require a few extra days to resolve before they feel ready to return to work.
Risks
Complications from eyelid surgery have been rare in my experience. Possible risks can include bleeding, infection, scarring and impaired vision.
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