Eyelid Surgery in San Diego

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Fenton, Sterling, Livonia, MI and San Diego, CA

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that rejuvenates and enhances the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids. It addresses common aesthetic concerns such as sagging skin, excess fat, drooping eyelids, bags under the eyes, and wrinkles. It is a popular choice for individuals who want to achieve a more youthful and refreshed look. The highly experienced and board-certified plastic surgeons at Skin & Vein Center West in San Diego, specialize in eyelid surgery and can help you achieve your desired results.

Call us at (619) 704-2100 to schedule a personal consultation with us and learn more about how eyelid surgery can benefit you.

About Eyelid Surgery

Patients seek eyelid surgery for cosmetic and functional reasons. (1) As people age, the skin around the eyes can lose elasticity, and muscles can weaken, leading to drooping eyelids, puffiness, and eye bags. This can create a tired or aged appearance that many individuals wish to correct for a more youthful and refreshed look. Functionally, sagging upper eyelids can impair vision by obstructing the visual field. This condition, known as ptosis, can make everyday tasks such as reading and driving particularly challenging. By removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding muscles, blepharoplasty can significantly improve peripheral vision, enhancing both the quality of life and safety.

Among the top 5 most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries, (2) blepharoplasty can also address other issues like excess fatty deposits that create puffiness, fine wrinkles, and lines on the lower eyelids, and bags under the eyes. For some, these issues are hereditary and can appear early in life, making blepharoplasty a viable option for younger individuals. With minimal scarring and a relatively short recovery time, blepharoplasty offers a practical solution for those looking to improve both the function and aesthetics of their eyes.

Types of Eyelid Surgery

  • Upper Blepharoplasty: This procedure focuses on removing excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid to eliminate hooded or droopy eyelids. It can also improve peripheral vision obstruction caused by sagging eyelid skin.
  • Lower Blepharoplasty: Lower eyelid surgery targets under-eye bags, puffiness, and wrinkles. It involves the removal or repositioning of fatty deposits, tightening of muscles, and smoothing of the lower eyelid skin for a refreshed appearance.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

  • Restored Youthfulness: Eyelid surgery effectively reduces signs of aging, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and drooping eyelids, helping restore a more youthful and refreshed look.
  • Improved Field of Vision: Upper eyelid surgery can significantly improve peripheral vision blocked by excess eyelid skin, allowing for better visibility and enhanced daily activities
  • Brighter and More Alert Eyes: Lower eyelid surgery eliminates under-eye bags, puffiness, and dark circles, resulting in brighter and more alert-looking eyes.
  • Enhanced Confidence: By addressing aesthetic concerns and achieving a more vibrant appearance, eyelid surgery can boost self-confidence and improve overall quality of life.
  • Long-lasting Results: The results of eyelid surgery are long-lasting, providing lasting improvements in the appearance of the eyes and eyelids.
  • Customized Approach: Each eyelid surgery procedure is customized to address the unique needs and goals of the patient, ensuring optimal results tailored to their preferences and facial anatomy.
  • Minimal Scarring: Incisions made during eyelid surgery are strategically placed within the natural creases of the eyelids, resulting in minimal visible scarring.

Candidates

Candidates for eyelid surgery include individuals who are bothered by:

  • Excess skin on the upper and/or lower eyelids
  • Hooded or droopy eyelids
  • Bags or puffiness under the eyes
  • Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes
  • Obstruction of peripheral vision due to sagging skin on the upper eyelids

Other factors that determine candidacy include overall health, realistic expectations, and the absence of certain medical conditions that may increase surgical risks. During a personal consultation at Skin & Vein Center West in San Diego, we will evaluate your specific concerns, medical history, and aesthetic goals to determine if you are an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery.

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation is an essential step in your eyelid surgery journey. During this consultation, we will listen carefully to your concerns, assess your medical history, conduct a thorough examination of your eye area, and discuss your desired outcomes. This is the perfect opportunity to ask any questions you may have and learn more about the procedure, recovery process, and expected results. We will provide expert advice on the most suitable approach for achieving your goals and ensure that you have a full understanding of the risks and benefits associated with eyelid surgery. To schedule your consultation, call Skin & Vein Center West at (619) 704-2100.

Preparation

Preparation plays a vital role in ensuring a successful and comfortable eyelid surgery experience. Our expert team will provide you with specific preoperative instructions tailored to your unique needs. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to optimize your results. These may include:

  • Ceasing the use of blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements, and certain over-the-counter drugs that can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Avoiding smoking and nicotine products to promote proper healing and reduce surgical risks.
  • Arranging for transportation to and from the surgical facility, as you will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure if anesthesia or sedation is used.
  • Arranging for post-operative care assistance, especially during the initial recovery phase when rest and limited physical activity are essential.

Procedure

Surgeons can perform eyelid surgery under local anesthesia with mild sedation. We will discuss this aspect with you during your personal consultation. For upper eyelid surgery, surgeons typically make incisions along the natural crease of the eyelids, ensuring minimal visible scarring.

For lower eyelid surgery, incisions may be made either just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival blepharoplasty) to avoid external scarring. The surgeon will carefully address excess skin, fat deposits, and muscle tissue based on each patient’s needs. They will remove or reposition excessive fat, tighten lax muscles, and trim any redundant skin to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. Once these changes are complete, the surgeon meticulously closes the incisions using sutures or specialized adhesive techniques designed to minimize scarring.

Recovery

After the completion of your eyelid surgery procedure, you can expect a recovery period during which proper care and rest are crucial for optimal healing. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions specific to your case, which may include:

  • Applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising in the initial days after surgery
  • Keeping the head elevated while resting to minimize swelling
  • Taking prescribed medications, such as pain relievers and antibiotics, as directed
  • Avoiding activities that may strain or bombard your eyes, including vigorous exercise, heavy lifting, and rubbing or touching the surgical area
  • Attending scheduled follow-up appointments at Skin & Vein Center West to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery

Most patients experience some swelling and bruising after eyelid surgery, which usually subsides within a few weeks. It is normal to have mild discomfort, itchiness, and dryness during the recovery phase. We will advise you on when it is safe to resume normal activities, including work and exercise. Full recovery takes a few weeks, during which time you will witness the transformation of your eyelids and enjoy the youthful, rejuvenated appearance of your eyes.

Results

The results of eyelid surgery can vary based on individual factors such as age, skin elasticity, and overall health. However, most patients experience long-lasting improvements in the appearance of their eyes and eyelids. The procedure achieves a more refreshed look, reducing sagging skin, eliminating bags under the eyes, and smoothing wrinkles.

Cost of Eyelid Surgery in San Diego

The cost of eyelid surgery varies depending on several factors specific to the individual. During your personal consultation, we will provide you with an accurate estimate for the price of your customized eyelid surgery procedure. Our team at Skin & Vein Center West can also discuss financing options available to help you achieve your aesthetic goals in a way that fits your budget.

Call (619) 704-2100 to book your personal eyelid lift consultation in San Diego, or use our simple online form to get started.

FAQ

What is the downtime associated with eyelid surgery?

Depending on the extent of your eyelid surgery, you can expect a downtime of approximately one to two weeks. Initially, there will be some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. These side effects gradually subside, allowing you to resume normal activities within the prescribed time frame.

Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?

Yes, eyelid surgery can be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures to achieve a comprehensive and harmonious result. Commonly combined procedures include facelifts, brow lifts, and injectable treatments.

When will I see the final results of my eyelid surgery?

The initial improvements from eyelid surgery can be noticeable as swelling and bruising subside. However, it may take several weeks for the full effects of the surgery to become apparent. As the tissues heal and settle, you will start to see the final results of your eyelid surgery, including a more youthful and refreshed appearance around the eyes.

Does insurance cover eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery is typically considered a cosmetic procedure, and therefore it is not covered by insurance. If the procedure is performed to correct a vision impairment caused by sagging upper eyelids, insurance coverage may be possible. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage eligibility.

References

  1. Rebowe RE, Runyan C. Blepharoplasty. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482381/ 
  2. Miotti G, Zeppieri M, Pederzani G, Salati C, Parodi PC. Modern blepharoplasty: From bench to bedside. World Journal of Clinical Cases. 2023;11(8):1719-1729. doi:https://doi.org/10.12998/wjcc.v11.i8.1719