Dr. Lavinia K. Chong, MD is pleased to offer eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, in Newport Beach for those who seek to revitalize their upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Aging, weight loss or gain, and genetics all play a part in developing puffy, sagging skin around the eyes, creating a tired, more aged appearance. For some, this condition can become severe enough to interfere with one’s ability to see.

Blepharoplasty treats the following conditions:

  • Excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the upper eyelids
  • Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision
  • Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid
  • Bags under the eyes
  • Droopiness of the lower eyelids that exposes the white of the eye below the iris

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are those who are in good overall health, have healthy facial tissue and muscles, and have realistic goals for the improvement of their upper and/or lower eyelids and the surrounding area. Other procedures may be better suited to different facial rejuvenation goals.

The Procedure

Blepharoplasty can be performed under a local anesthetic or with IV sedation. Incisions are planned to lie in the creases of your skin to minimize any scarring. Depending on your anatomy, muscles around the eyelids can be reset, fat deposits contoured, and the excess skin re-draped. Incisions are repaired with fine sutures, and the patient is instructed on activity schedule, wound care, and the need for follow-up. Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how little pain they experience.

Recovery


Close up profile shot of young asian woman | lavinia k chong m D's FacePatients’ appearance can range from mild swelling to “raccoon eyes” (dark circles) during the initial post-op period. Measures designed to reduce discoloration and swelling include early application of ice packs, activity restriction (i.e. no heavy cardio exercises), keeping blood pressure “normal,” and occasionally Vitamin K creams designed to break down the color. Patients may experience itchiness and dry eyes, which are temporary.

As a female plastic surgeon, Dr. Chong is deeply committed to providing quality patient-centric care that will help you achieve your goals to look and feel more youthful and full of vitality. She will be happy to consult with you personally to explore the options that are best suited to your individual case.

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Blepharoplasty FAQ

  • How long will I be bruised and swollen?

    It depends on many factors: 1. Suspension of meds, which affect platelet function, such as aspirin, Vitamin E, fish oil, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like Advil, Naproxen, Motrin, etc. 2. The prior history of easy bruising; 3. History of hypertension, allergies; and 4. Surgical technique.

  • Will I be able to close my eyelids?

    Definitely. Apart from improving the appearance of the eyelids, ensuring adequate lid coverage is the top priority.

  • If I wear contacts, is it okay to do the surgery?

    Yes, but you will have to revert to glasses for at least a week, post op. More importantly, a full eye history must be taken so that your vision can be protected.

  • Will the shape of my eyes change?

    No. The goals are to improve excess skin, reduce prominent fat pads, camouflage scars within relaxed skin tension lines.

  • How will my eyeballs be protected?

    During an upper eyelid lift, the eyes are closed, so the eyeball is automatically protected. By contrast, when the lower lid is operated on, a corneal shield (plastic contact lens) is temporarily used.

  • Are lash extensions safe?

    After blepharoplasty, we recommend you defer from wearing eye makeup for at least 10 days. Do your research on lash extension providers and wait at least a month post-op before proceeding.

  • How do I manage itchy/dry eyes?

    Itchiness is a consequence of wound healing and can be managed with anti-histamines and gentle moisturization of the suture lines with Aquaphor. Dryness is temporary and relieved by the use of preservative-free saline drops for a few weeks, post-op.

  • What is the difference between an Upper Blepharoplasty and a Brow Lift?

    A brow lift repositions the eyebrow higher on the orbital bone. An upper eyelid lift reduces the amount of skin weighing down on the eyelashes.

  • Can I do this with local anesthesia?

    Upper eyelid lifts are comfortable and safely conducted under local anesthesia +/- supplemental Valium. For a lower eyelid lift, it is a bit more of an invasive procedure and it is recommended to have some sedation.

  • How Do You Remove the Fat?

    Once the lid skin is retracted, “button holes” are made in the muscle enabling contouring of the fat pads. Contemporary techniques conserve periorbital fat, occasionally re-draping it along the bony “tear trough.”


Schedule Your Blepharoplasty Consultation

Lavinia K. Chong, MD provides blepharoplasty to help patients look their best. Recover the youthful appearance of your eyes with blepharoplasty. Contact our office in Newport Beach to schedule your consultation with Dr. Chong at (949) 644-1400.