Eyelid Lift Specialist

Gentile Facial Plastic and Aesthetic Laser Center

Richard D Gentile, MD

Plastic Surgeon located in Youngstown, OH & Akron, OH

The eyes are one of the most apparent features on a person’s face. We often remember the color of another’s eyes, and look to this trait to determine a one’s sincereity, or to project our own authenticity. Because so much emphasis is placed on the eyes, many people wish to prolong their youthful look. Others wish to correct sagging eyelids or unappealing features that have been present since their youth. Blepharoplasty, also known to many as “eyelid surgey” can be performed on the upper and lower lids to reduce puffiness, tighten sagging skin, and eliminate the tired look of aging eyes. Blepharoplasty restores vitality to a person’s overall appearance by improving the appearance of a mature or unattractive main feature.

Eyelid Lift Q & A

The Blepharoplasty Surgery Consultation

During your first visit to your Dr. Gentile’s office, you will be able to point out the specific features of your eyes you would like to have corrected. The doctor will examine your skin and eyes so he can make suggestions for your treatment. An eyelid surgery can be performed with the use of a laser or more conventional techniques, both of which can be explained at your consultation. A blepharoplasty may be performed as a solitary surgery or combined with other procedures such as laser skin Rejuvenation, a chemical peel, injectable fillers, a browlift, or a facelift.

Dr. Gentile will explain the risks and benefits associated with an eyelid surgery.You may also be able receive an estimate of how much the surgery will cost, and payment options and plans available at the facility. Insurance companies will not cover the procedure if it is performed for cosmetic purposes, but they may offer help to patients if their vision is affected by sagging eyelids.

Generally, patients who receive a blepharoplasty are beyond the age of thirty-five, but this cosmetic surgery can be performed on younger patients as well. Blepharoplasty patients must have a realistic view of Dr. Gentile’s abilities. Perfection is always the goal of this accomplished plastic surgeon, however it is not always possible to achieve. During the consultation, potential health risks may be overviewed so the doctor can determine whether or not to treat you as a patient. If necessary, you will be asked to visit your primary care physician or other doctors to undergo testing. Most surgergical requirements are a physical examination, and blood and urine samples, but differs among patients.

Upper Eyelid and Lower Eyelid Plastic Surgery

The issues of the upper eyelid tend to differ from that of the lower lid. A drooping upper lid may also cause wrinkles around the eyes that are invariably evident. Excess skin is trimmed away from the eyelid, guided by pre-surgically marked areas that allow Dr. Gentile to create a new natural crease in the eye. Fat and muscle may also be removed, or modified underneath the skin.

During a lower eyelid procedure, skin and fat that create the bulky appearance under the eye are removed to produce a smooth finish, free of creases. During a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, incisions are disguised inside the lower lid so scarring is not evident. Excess skin is not removed during this procedure, so the technique is not suggested for all patients. Dr. Gentile may need to close incisions with sutures, that may dissolve into the body, or require removal. The entire blepharoplasty surgery may take one to two hours, while the patient is under local anesthesia. If opting to undergo multiple procedures, the patient may be administered general anesthesia.

The Healing Process and Procedures

The recovery period from a blepharoplasty is relatively short compared to other facial cosmetic procedures. Eyelid surgey patients should rest for the first few days of their recovery. Two or three weeks after the surgery, the majority of patients are able to resume their daily activities.

A minimal amount of pain is associated with a blepharoplasty surgery, although prescription pain medicine will be prescribed. Brusing and swelling of the tissues surrounding the eyes is common, and should fade within two weeks. The placement of cool gel packs or cold washcloths may limit swelling and provide temporary pain relief.

Patients should prop their heads up with three pillows while laying down and sleeping for two weeks, and apply eyedrops at night if the eyelid function if affected by swelling. The eyes may tear more than normal after the surgery, but this should cease in two to three weeks. Alcohol, smoking, excessive physical activity, and bending the head downward will maximize recovery time and should be avoided for a few weeks. Sunscreen is also recommended to protect scars and tender skin from sun damage in the moths following your blepharoplasty procedure.

The Surgical Results

A blepharoplasty surgery delivers long term results that rarely require future maintenance, although the aging process cannot be halted. When fat is removed from the eyelids, it will not reaccumulate underneath the skin. In rare cases, droopy eyelids may reoccur and require an additional procedure.

BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY

Lower Eyelid Non Surgical

Forehead and Eyelid

For Men Only

What we offer