Eyelid Surgery in
Scottsdale, AZ
Dr. LaBarbera offers advanced eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, to correct baggy or wrinkled eyelids. Aging often leads to a loss of skin elasticity, causing fat deposits to accumulate under or above the eyes, resulting in sagging. These changes can make patients look older or tired, sometimes impairing their vision.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. LaBarbera utilizes the latest techniques to help eliminate these undesirable facial features. Blepharoplasty can be performed alone or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as brow and neck lifts. Dr. LaBarbera has successfully helped many patients achieve a more refreshed and youthful appearance through eyelid surgery. We aim to help every individual look and feel younger, restoring their confidence.
Table Of Contents
What Is Blepharoplasty?
An eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that rejuvenates the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelid. During this procedure, Dr. LaBarbera removes the excess skin, fat, and muscle that cause saggy upper eyelids or puffy lower lids. The goal is to restore a smoother, younger eye contour that brightens and refreshes the overall appearance of the entire face. Blepharoplasty is most commonly chosen by patients who want to reduce the appearance of tiredness, signs of aging, or vision loss caused by sagging eyelids.
While cosmetic eyelid surgery addresses issues specific to the upper or lower eyelids, it does not correct all cosmetic concerns, such as dark circles, wrinkles, or crow’s feet. Dr. LaBarbera can create a comprehensive plan that includes additional treatments along with blepharoplasty. This combined approach, known as eyelid rejuvenation, may enhance the overall aesthetic of the eye area.
Reasons to Have an Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty effectively treats:
- Under-eye bags
- Puffy eyelids caused by excess fatty deposits
- Loose or sagging upper eyelid skin affecting the contours
- Fine wrinkles and extra skin on the lower eyelids
- Drooping lower eyelids exposing the white below the iris
An eyelid lift is designed to restore a more youthful and alert look. Dr. LaBarbera customizes his approach for each patient, ensuring the results align with their goals.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Techniques
An eyelid lift can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, to preserve the natural appearance of the eyes. The techniques may vary slightly depending on the eyelid being treated, but the overall approach is similar. The procedure involves removing loose tissue or skin and repositioning fat deposits for optimal results.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Excess skin hanging over the eyes can impact both appearance and vision. To address this, an incision is made along the eyelid’s natural crease. Our cosmetic surgery enables the removal of excess fat and tissue, as well as the elimination of any unwanted bulges. Sometimes, fat tissues are repositioned rather than removed. Finally, the excess skin is trimmed away, and the incision sites are closed with fine sutures.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye puffiness and sagging of the lower eyelids. Dr. LaBarbera may opt for different incision locations. One method involves making an incision just below the eyelashes to remove excess fat, skin, and tissue. Another option is the transconjunctival approach, which involves an incision inside the lower eyelid. This technique is suitable for patients with good skin elasticity, resulting in minimal scarring. For those with dark circles, Dr. LaBarbera may suggest combining the procedure with other treatments, such as chemical peels or fillers, to achieve more comprehensive improvements.
Quadruple Eyelid Surgery (Upper and lower blepharoplasty)
To fully revitalize the eyes, Dr. LaBarbera may perform upper and lower eyelid operations simultaneously. This two-tiered method provides a comprehensive solution for eyes that appear aged or exhausted, yielding impressive results that are entirely symmetrical. It is an excellent surgery for patients whose upper and lower lids have changed dramatically over the years.
Define your jawline with precision.
During the first 24 hours after chin liposuction, patients return home and are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Wearing a compression garment helps reduce swelling and supports the neck and chin area, promoting comfort and proper healing. Cold compresses may also be applied to further minimize inflammation during this initial phase of the healing process.
Initial Consultation and Testing
During the first appointment, Dr. LaBarbera examines the patient’s eyelids to determine the optimal course of action. He discusses cosmetic goals with the patient, answers questions, and reviews their eye and facial surgery history, as well as their medications and overall medical history. Dr. LaBarbera may take photographs to stage the procedure and compare before-and-after results. If the patient meets the qualifications, Dr. LaBarbera provides detailed pre-surgical instructions to have a comfortable and issue-free experience.
Blepharoplasty: A Step-by-Step Procedure
Marking and Anesthesia
Before surgery, Dr. LaBarbera carefully marks the incision sites, taking into account each patient’s unique anatomy to ensure the most aesthetically pleasing results. Depending on the type of blepharoplasty being performed, patients may receive either local anesthesia or general anesthesia to ensure their comfort during the procedure.
Incisions and Adjustment
Typically, our surgeon starts the operation with the upper eyelid lift before addressing the lower eyelids. Dr. LaBarbera creates precise incisions along the natural creases of the eyelids or within the lower lid. From there, he might remove fat and/or skin, reposition muscle, or do all three to restore a youthful contour.
Closing the Incisions
Once the required changes have been made, Dr. LaBarbera closes the incisions using delicate sutures so that scarring is barely noticeable. It usually takes between one and two hours to perform a blepharoplasty from start to finish. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the areas treated.
Complementary Procedures
Facial Fat Grafting
Facial fat grafting is a common add-on procedure for eyelid surgery. While blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids, fat grafting adds youthful volume to sunken areas, such as the cheeks, under-eye tear troughs, and temples. Together, the two surgeries can enhance the overall facial result by softening transitions and giving a more refreshed look. Because the material comes from the patient’s own body, outcomes are both natural in appearance and durable.
Brow Lift
A brow lift is often performed in conjunction with eyelid surgery to address sagging brows and forehead creases that are too deep for eyelid surgery to correct. This operation raises the eyebrows, opens up the top part of the eyes, and gives them an appearance that is more alert and youthful. When blepharoplasty and a forehead lift are performed together, it ensures that the position of the brow and upper eyelid is in harmony. Additionally, having only one recovery period is more convenient and safer.
Facelift/Neck Lift
To combat signs of aging on the lower face and neck, patients may opt for a neck lift or facelift in conjunction with eyelid surgery. Whereas blepharoplasty rejuvenates the upper third of the face, a facelift addresses concerns such as a sagging jawline, droopy corners of the mouth, and loose skin on the face. Meanwhile, a neck lift can remedy both sagging tissues and vertical bands in the neck.
Recovery After Eyelid Surgery
Immediate Recovery
Following eyelid surgery, the majority of patients are observed in our recovery area for a brief period before being discharged later that day. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort around the eyes are to be expected. Dr. LaBarbera might recommend painkillers, lubricating ointment, and cold compresses to help alleviate these symptoms and assist with healing during the initial days post-op.
Initial Weeks
For the initial days after the procedure, patients are advised to lie down with their heads elevated in order to reduce swelling. Removal of stitches typically occurs between five and seven days after the procedure. Any bruising should be gone within two weeks. While it is usual for patients to feel up to some light duties or office work after one to two weeks, we recommend steering clear of vigorous exercise as well as activities that involve bending over or lifting heavy objects for around 21 days post-op. This will help stave off complications.
Long Term-Results
As the swelling diminishes in the weeks following eyelid surgery, patients will begin to see more pronounced results. Around month three or four, their eyelids should appear noticeably refreshed and younger. In addition to long-lasting enhancements in the overall appearance of the eyes, most patients find that any resulting scars fade naturally and become almost imperceptible.
Candidates for Blepharoplasty
Eyelid surgery is intended for patients who want to address age-related concerns near their eyes or enhance vision hindered by sagging eyelids. Those who usually make good candidates meet these criteria:
- Sagging Eyelids or Bags: This procedure can treat sagging skin, puffiness, or fatty tissue that creates hooding on the upper eyelids or under-eye bags.
- Impaired Vision: Patients with sagging upper eyelids that block their side vision, making everyday tasks such as reading or driving hard, can greatly benefit from the procedure. It raises their eyelids and improves vision.
- Good Skin Elasticity: In order to achieve the best surgical results, patients need to have skin that is both healthy and has a degree of natural elasticity.
- General Good Health: Applicants must not have any medical conditions that are not being managed, for example, glaucoma, dry eyes, bleeding disorders, or heart disease, as they create a risk of complications.
- Non-smokers: Nicotine may slow healing and raise the chances of complications. Patients should refrain from smoking or be prepared to quit for several weeks before and after surgery.
- Realistic Expectations: An eyelid surgery enhances looks but can’t halt aging. Suitable candidates know this and have specific goals in mind.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
More Youthful Appearance
Eyelid surgery can refresh the face by removing excess skin that tends to accumulate with age, especially around the upper and lower eyelids. By restoring the eye area’s natural contours and eliminating drooping or puffy skin, the procedure helps create a brighter appearance that looks both rejuvenated and balanced. These subtle but impactful changes contribute to a more youthful overall look without appearing overdone.
Improved Vision
For patients struggling with impaired eyesight due to skin laxity or drooping upper lids, eyelid surgery—particularly upper blepharoplasty—can offer both cosmetic and functional improvements. By correcting eyelid ptosis and reducing the weight of sagging skin that presses on the eyes, the surgery clears the field of vision. It enhances day-to-day comfort, particularly when reading or driving.
Reduced Under-Eye Bags and Dark Circles
Lower eyelid surgery is especially effective at addressing under-eye puffiness by tightening muscles and lifting drooping skin that contributes to a tired appearance. This correction not only improves aesthetics but can also minimize the shadowing that leads to dark circles, making patients look more rested and alert.
Boosted Self-Confidence
As the skin loses elasticity over time, many individuals feel their appearance no longer reflects how they feel inside. By addressing excess tissue through a customized treatment plan—which may include a combined upper and lower blepharoplasty—patients often experience a noticeable boost in self-esteem. The results help them feel more aligned with their natural energy and appearance, enhancing both personal and professional confidence.
Long-Lasting Results
While no cosmetic procedure can permanently halt the aging process, eyelid surgery provides lasting improvements, especially for individuals experiencing significant sagging. The structural enhancements made during surgery can maintain a rejuvenated appearance for many years, reducing the need for ongoing cosmetic touch-ups in the treated area.
Support During Recovery
Patients undergoing eyelid surgery benefit from a carefully managed recovery process, which often includes prescribed pain medications to ease discomfort. With proper support and guidance from their surgical team, patients can navigate their healing process more comfortably and return to their regular routines with confidence.
Blepharoplasty Cost in Scottsdale, AZ
Eyelid surgery costs in Scottsdale, AZ, typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. Insurance does not cover the cost of blepharoplasty. The surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, operating room fees, and postoperative care costs are all included in the price of this cosmetic procedure. The final price depends on whether blepharoplasty focuses on the upper lids, lower lids, or both. Additional costs may be incurred if eyelid surgery is performed in conjunction with another facial rejuvenation procedure, such as a brow lift or facelift.
Patients should schedule a personal appointment with Dr. LaBarbera to receive an estimate tailored to their specific goals and the complexity of the process involved.
Planning your Eyelid Rejuvenation Surgery In Scottsdale, AZ
At Jude LaBarbera Plastic Surgery, patients receive top-notch care from a board-certified surgeon, Dr. LaBarbera. He performs blepharoplasty in his state-of-the-art operating room, assisted by a skilled and licensed team. Dr. LaBarbera serves patients from Scottsdale and the surrounding Arizona areas, ensuring each individual receives the highest level of care and expertise. Our compassionate staff and well-equipped surgical facility provide a safe, seamless, and comfortable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will there be visible scars?
To minimize visible scarring after eyelid surgery, Dr. LaBarbera makes incisions along the natural fold lines of the eyes. Once the healing process is complete, scars are typically unnoticeable. It is essential to select a highly skilled surgeon, such as Dr. LaBarbera, to achieve optimal results and minimize potential complications.
Does blepharoplasty help with crow's feet and hollow eyes?
While blepharoplasty effectively addresses issues like sagging and drooping eyelids, it doesn’t treat crow’s feet or hollow eyes. To tackle these concerns, Dr. LaBarbera often recommends combining eyelid surgery with nonsurgical treatments, such as BOTOX, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the eye area.
Does eyelid surgery lead to better eyesight?
While primarily a cosmetic procedure, eyelid surgery can also improve functionality. Many individuals with drooping upper eyelids find that their vision improves after surgery, as the removal of excess skin can enhance their field of vision.
Can I wear contact lenses after blepharoplasty?
You’ll need to follow Dr. LaBarbera’s post-operative instructions, which typically recommend avoiding contact lenses for a few weeks to allow proper healing.
Can I apply makeup after blepharoplasty?
After a lower or upper eyelid procedure, it is recommended to avoid applying makeup to the skin around the eyes, especially near the lash line and inner surface, until the healing process is complete.
Can I undergo blepharoplasty under local anesthesia and sedation?
Yes, the eyelid lift procedure can often be safely performed with local anesthesia and sedation, especially when targeting the eyelid crease.
Can I combine blepharoplasty with other facial procedures?
Yes, many patients choose to enhance skin texture and achieve natural-looking results by combining blepharoplasty with additional procedures for a more refreshed appearance.
What makes Dr. LaBarbera different from other surgeons?
Dr. LaBarbera specializes in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with all procedures performed by him personally. He provides a personal consultation and uses techniques designed to minimize scarring. Dr. LaBarbera is a board-certified surgeon, which is a testament to his advanced skills and commitment to safety and quality.
