Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that rejuvenates the areas around the eyes. (1) This surgical treatment can address various concerns, such as sagging skin or puffiness caused by fat. Eyelid surgery can provide patients with a more youthful and refreshed look, and in some cases, it can also address drooping eyelid skin that limits vision.
The Maercks Institute is one of Miami’s leading plastic surgery practices. Here, Dr. Rian Maercks and his team can help you achieve your goals with a customized treatment plan. Dr. Maercks offers eyelid surgery as well as the Fox Eye Lift. He has helped patients achieve impressive results through advanced techniques that prioritize safety, effectiveness, and patient satisfaction.
If you would like to explore your blepharoplasty options, please take a moment to schedule a consultation with Dr. Maercks. You can reach us by submitting our online contact form or by calling our office directly at (305) 328-8256.
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Before and After Photos
About Eyelid Surgery
The skin around the eyes is so thin and sensitive that signs of age can begin appearing as early as our 20s; this delicate area is particularly vulnerable to environmental and lifestyle factors. This is unfortunate, as lines, wrinkles, under-eye bags, and droopy eyelids tend to make us look older and less energetic than we feel. (1)
Eyelid surgery, officially referred to as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the eyelids by removing excess or repositioning sagging tissues to “open up” the eyes again. The result is an appearance that is more youthful, alert, attractive, and pleasant.
There are two types of eyelid surgery: upper and lower. They can be performed as standalone procedures, or they can be combined to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation. (1) Either procedure can also be accompanied by a brow lift, facelift, or dermal fillers for an even more renewed appearance.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery is performed to specifically address sagging skin or fat that hangs over the eyes. During this procedure, Dr. Maercks makes a discreet incision within the crease of the eyelid. This procedure opens up the eyes, in some cases removing bothersome skin that might impede vision. (2)
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid surgery is performed to improve sagging under-eye bags, eyelids that appear to be “pulled down,” and bulging fat beneath the eyes. The incision for this procedure can be either just below the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid. Rejuvenating this area beneath the eyes can significantly enhance one’s appearance, creating a more youthful and well-rested look. (3)
Fox Eye Lift
One of the latest trends in the beauty industry is the creation of fox-like eyes through a special form of blepharoplasty: the Fox Eye Lift. The Fox Eye Lift procedure is designed to pull the corners of the eyes slightly sideways to create an almond-shaped eye contour that resembles a fox’s eyes. There is much less downtime after a Fox Eye Lift compared to conventional blepharoplasty, and it can help you look more youthful and alluring. This treatment tends to be best for younger patients who are looking to enhance their appearance rather than address any significant concerns.
The results of a Fox Eye Lift last about 6-12 months.
Benefits
Eyelid surgery treatments offer numerous beneficial outcomes. Under the expert care of Dr. Maercks, our patients achieve results through:
- Rejuvenated appearance: Blepharoplasty provides a refreshed and more alert look by addressing sagging eyelids and under-eye bags.
- Removed Vision Obstructions: By removing excess skin from the upper eyelids, individuals may improve peripheral vision, particularly if loose skin obstructs their sight.
- Long-lasting results: Eyelid surgery typically provides long-lasting improvements compared to temporary options such as fillers or injections.
- Customized procedures: Each surgery is uniquely tailored to meet the specific anatomical and aesthetic needs and goals of the patient.
- Minimal scarring: Properly positioned incisions lead to concealed scars, especially when made in natural skin folds.
- Quick recovery: Dr. Maercks’s advanced techniques often provide his patients with a shorter-than-average recovery, allowing them to return to daily activities quickly.
- Boosted confidence: Patients often report improved self-esteem following eyelid surgery.
- Combination possibilities: Eyelid surgery can be paired with other facial procedures, further enhancing overall beauty and balance.
Candidates
Those who make the best candidates for blepharoplasty are those who:
- Want to address their sad, angry, or tired-looking “resting face”
- Have excess skin, puffiness, or sagging of the eyelids
- Want their eyes to be “seen” or “open” again
- Want to remove excess eyelid skin that is impairing their vision
- Do not have pre-existing eye conditions or diseases
- Do not have an overactive thyroid
- Are non-smokers in general good health
- Have realistic expectations about what blepharoplasty can achieve
Each patient’s candidacy will be determined during a consultation with Dr. Maercks.
Personal Consultation
During a personal consultation, Dr. Maercks will discuss your concerns and goals and review your medical history. A physical examination will follow to evaluate the skin quality and structures of your eyelids. Together, you will discuss the various surgical options available to achieve your desired results.
It is important to communicate any medications or supplements you are taking and to express any concerns regarding the surgery process. This collaborative discussion ensures that you leave the consultation well-informed and confident in your decision.
Schedule your consultation today by submitting our online contact form. If you have any further questions or would prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our Miami office directly at (305) 328-8256.
Preparation
Once your eyelid surgery is scheduled, you will receive comprehensive pre-operative instructions to prepare you for the procedure. Being well-prepared allows for a successful surgical experience and promotes optimal healing. Typical preparation instructions may include:
- Avoiding blood thinners (such as aspirin and certain supplements) as advised
- Quitting smoking several weeks before surgery and throughout the recovery
- Filling any prescriptions ahead of the procedure
- Arranging transportation home after surgery
- Planning for sufficient recovery time away from work and social obligations.
Recovery
You may go home a few hours after your blepharoplasty, and you can expect about one week of recovery time. There are some common yet temporary side effects you may experience, including blurred vision, redness, swelling, bruising, dry or tired eyes, and/or mild discomfort. These side effects are not dangerous, but if they bother you, please do not hesitate to reach out to your surgical team.
Those who wear contacts will need to take a break from wearing them for two weeks. Your sutures can be removed after one week at a follow-up appointment. Results will be visible at approximately six weeks following surgery. You will still look like yourself, only more refreshed and youthful, and your vision will no longer be affected by hanging eyelid skin.
While eyelid surgery will not stop the aging process, it can take years off your perceived age. Results typically last for many years, contributing to long-term satisfaction.
Corresponding Procedures
Eyelid surgery can easily be combined with other treatments to further enhance a patient’s facial appearance. As mentioned above, procedures like brow lifts, facelifts, and dermal fillers can help to further reduce wrinkles, replace lost facial volume, and help to create a youthful appearance.
Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Miami
The total cost of your eyelid surgery will depend on the scale of the procedure, your personal goals, the methods used in treatment, whether or not you include other procedures, and a handful of other factors. After meeting with Dr. Maercks to discuss your goals, you will receive a comprehensive price estimate. The Maercks Institute also offers financing options to help patients access their treatments.
Because eyelid surgery tends to be considered a cosmetic procedure, it is not typically covered by insurance. However, we encourage each of our patients to reach out to their insurance provider to see if their policy might offset some of the costs.
Schedule your consultation today by reaching out to us online. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our office directly at (305) 328-8256.
FAQ
Is eyelid surgery painful?
While some discomfort is common, patients typically report manageable pain levels, controlled effectively with prescribed medication. Patients do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure itself due to the anesthesia.
How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Most patients can resume normal activities within one week, though complete healing can take several weeks.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to blepharoplasty?
Yes, non-surgical options such as fillers and Botox can temporarily address minor concerns, but they do not provide the lasting results achievable with surgery.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it is common for patients to combine eyelid surgery with other facial procedures, such as a facelift or brow lift, for enhanced results.
What is the best age for a blepharoplasty?
There is no specific age requirement; instead, the most determining factor is whether the individual has concerns about their eyelids, their overall health, and their seeking enhancements.
References
- Rebowe RE, Runyan C. Blepharoplasty. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482381/
- Patel BC, Malhotra R. Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537078/
- Rostami S, de la Torre JI, Czyz CN. Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448181/
d cosmetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery specialist in Miami, Dr. Maercks finds it very rewarding to see how happy his patients are with their results. Since founding The Maercks Institute in 2009, he has changed the lives of thousands of patients. They come to him with an issue, and he determines the best way to go about solving it. Why not see what Dr. Maercks can do for you at his boutique practice in Miami? To schedule your blepharoplasty consultation, please contact us.