There are several treatable conditions that may be improved using upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty procedures, including:
- Removal of fatty deposits in the upper eyelids results in a puffy look.
- Removal of sagging skin that disturbs eye contour, sometimes impairing vision, of the upper eyelid.
- Removal of fine wrinkles and excess skin of the lower eyelid.
- Removal of “bags” under the eyes.
- Correction of lower eyelid droopiness which results in the white of the eye showing below the iris, or colored portion.
As the skin begins to age, it loses elasticity. Combined with gravity, this may cause excess skin to collect in the upper or lower eyelid. On the lower eyelid, this can cause bulges and wrinkles. On the upper eyelid, a fold of skin may form which hangs over the eye area and may actually obstruct vision. In addition, the thin, supporting membrane that holds the fat in place may weaken allowing the fat to protrude.
Eyelid surgery, also often called an eye lift or undereye bag surgery, is designed to remove excess skin, reduce the fat of the eye area, and, in some cases, tighten muscle creating a more youthful appearance. Of course, you will continue to age, but the results are usually very long-lasting. With upper eyelid surgery lasting anywhere from five to seven years to a lifetime, lower eyelid surgery most often needs to be performed only once.
Lower Eyelid Surgery Gallery
Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation with Dr. Rivela
With your personal consultation providing an opportunity to interact with Dr. Rivela, this is the time to ask and answer questions. During this time, you will be thoroughly evaluated and assessed, providing Dr. Rivela the opportunity to develop a surgical procedure plan tailor-made for you.
Be ready to discuss:
- Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
- Expectations and desired outcome
- Available Options
- All medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs that you are currently taking or using
- Previous surgical history
Dr. Rivela may also:
- Evaluate your general health status including pre-existing conditions and risk factors
- Examine your face
- Take photographs for your medical records
- Discuss your options and recommend a surgical course of action
- Discuss likely outcomes, risks, and potential complications associated with your surgery
MEET DR. RIVELA
With over 25 years of experience, Lucian J. Rivela M. D., F. A. C. S. is proud to offer some of the most innovative procedures available in cosmetic and plastic surgery, aesthetic treatments, and skincare. Dr. Rivela is board certified and is a member of both The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He and his staff are dedicated to helping you be your best confident, natural, and authentic self.
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Your Eyelid Surgery Procedure
Eyelid surgery is often performed in conjunction with face lifts, brow lifts, or forehead lifts and is usually performed under general anesthesia, but sometimes under local anesthesia with sedation. Most often performed at a surgical center, it is usually on an outpatient basis. Typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, time will vary depending upon other procedures Dr. Rivela may be performing in conjunction with your eyelid surgery.
Good candidates for eyelid surgery are non-smoker adults in good physical health, with a positive outlook, specific surgical goals, and realistic expectations about outcomes. Many find that the change in appearance brings with it a renewed outlook on life and enhances day-to-day living. To develop realistic expectations, it is helpful to look over our eyelid surgery before and after photos.
Your Eyelid Surgery Recovery Notes
Discomfort: Mild. Anticipate 0-3 days of prescription pain medication or Tylenol. Many require no medication.
Bruising and Swelling after Surgery: Improves in 3-14 days depending on the extent of the surgery. Following skin removal only, expect 3-5 days. The following skin and fat removal with canthopexy, expect 7-14 days. You can reduce swelling through constant head elevation and frequent applications of ice.
Bandages: None. You will be instructed to place ice compresses on your eyes for 1-3 days.
Excess Teardrops: Expect that your eyes will temporarily be prone to excessive tearing, especially when you are outside on a windy day. This typically improves within several weeks.
Contact Lenses: May be worn in 7-10 days.
Work: You may feel capable of returning within 1-3 days but your appearance may be a limiting factor.
Presentable in public: 3-14 days with the help of makeup, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Sun Protection After Surgery: Protect the area for six months with SPF 15 or higher.
Exercise: May be resumed in two weeks.
Final Results: Will be seen in 2-6 weeks.
Eyelid Surgery FAQs
Are there different types of eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery can be performed on upper, lower, or both lids. The procedure may involve the removal of excess skin, removal of underlying fatty tissue, tightening of muscles, or a combination of the three, depending upon desired results. While primarily performed for cosmetic purposes, it is beneficial for improving vision in patients whose upper eyelids have begun to obstruct vision.
What factors should be considered when selecting a surgeon?
Anyone considering plastic surgery should consider the doctor's medical training, experience, natural ability, and accreditation. Dr. Rivela has trained under some of the country's leading plastic surgeons and has membership in numerous medical societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgery and he is accredited by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. By popular vote, he was named “Best Plastic Surgeon” by Woodlands Online every year since 2010.
How should I prepare for eyelid surgery?
Any adult, who is in good physical health, is a non-smoker and has realistic expectations about the desired outcome. Eyelid surgery is an excellent choice for patients interested in improving eye contours by tightening skin, removing excess fat, and/or tightening muscles to create a more youthful appearance.
What are the risks of having eyelid surgery?
Beyond the normal risks of surgery, eyelid surgery is considered safe and doesn't carry additional risks. Closely following instructions on pre-operative and post-operative care creates the best environment for a problem-free surgical experience and recovery. All risks will be discussed at your consultation, and you will be given a form to sign stating the risks and allowing Dr. Rivela to perform eyelid surgery.
What is the cost of eyelid surgery?
The price of blepharoplasty surgery is impacted by several factors. The techniques utilized, the anesthesia used, and the time it takes to perform the surgery all play a role in determining eyelid surgery costs.
Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?
Any adult, who is in good physical health, is a non-smoker and has realistic expectations about the desired outcome. Eyelid surgery is an excellent choice for patients interested in improving eye contours by tightening skin, removing excess fat, and/or tightening muscles to create a more youthful appearance.
What are the benefits of eyelid surgery?
Nothing has more of an impact on how we feel than our face. By having eyelid surgery in The Woodlands, you will look more rested, refreshed, and alert.
Consultations for procedures for the Body at Rivela Plastic Surgery are complimentary. Call our office today at (281) 681-3905.
“The results have been excellent”
The staff in Dr. Rivela’s office are just very caring and warming people. Uplifting personalities after each aggressive facial treatment I had performed. The follow up was Great!! Wendy handled all my questions and put my mind at ease when I initially panicked, the results have been excellent. I have done exactly what I was told and the results of my face have totally changed for the best!!! I Absolutely love this office, and I have been to many!!! This has been the best experience ever.
Eyelid Surgery Cost
The cost of an Eyelid Surgery will depend on several factors. The price can be affected by body type, type of technique performed, surgical complications, and even allergies. Find out more by scheduling a consultation.
Schedule an Eyelid Surgery Consultation
Interested in learning more about Eyelid Surgery in The Woodlands / North Houston? Contact Rivela Plastic Surgery today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rivela. We look forward to offering compassionate treatment and excellent cosmetic plastic surgery solutions.
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How Eyelid Surgery Can Bring a Youthful Appearance
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Anesthesia
Location of operation
Length of surgery
Length of stay
Discomfort
Swelling & Bruising
Bandages
Work
Exercise
Final Result
