Eyelid Surgery in National Harbor, MD

Am I a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery is available to patients of nearly any age. Most patients undergo eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, to reduce the visible signs of age.
However, many individuals in their twenties and thirties may also gain benefits from the operation.

Eyelid surgery may be a good choice for you if you suffer from any of the following:

• Upper eyelids
  • Surplus skin that conceals the fold of your upper eyelid
  • Sagging skin that droops down from the upper eyelid
  • Lumpiness in the upper eyelid that creates a tired look
  • A low eyelid crease
  • Droopy eyelids
  • Uneven eyelids

• Lower eyelids
  • Surplus skin and noticeable lines in the lower eyelid
  • Puffy “bags” under your eyes
  • Dark circles
  • A deep tear trough

Upper Eyelids

Typically, the surgical cuts begin within the naturally occurring crease of the inner corner of the eye and go slightly through the outside corner into the laugh line area. Surplus skin is removed through this cut. In some individuals, a small amount of fat is removed as well. The incision line follows the contour of the upper eyelid and appears natural when healed.

Ptosis Repair

Eyelid ptosis, or blepharoptosis, refers to a drooping of the upper eyelid. The condition can affect one or both eyes and is characterized by the sagging of the upper eyelid to a position that is lower than normal.

The drooping can range from barely noticeable to completely covering the pupil, potentially obstructing vision. In severe cases, people with ptosis may need to tilt their heads back or lift their eyelids with their fingers to see. Ptosis can be present at birth (congenital) or can develop due to aging, injury, or an underlying health condition (acquired).

External ptosis repair, also known as an external levator resection, is a surgical procedure commonly used to correct ptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelid. The surgery involves tightening the levator muscle, which is responsible for lifting the eyelid.

Lower Eyelids

Lower blepharoplasty, also known as lower eyelid surgery, is a procedure that can be used to rejuvenate the appearance of the eye area by removing excess skin and fat from the lower eyelids. This procedure can significantly reduce bags under the eyes and wrinkles, providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

The following are some of the different techniques used to perform lower blepharoplasty in Maryland and DC:

1. Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty: This technique is typically used for younger patients who have good skin elasticity. The surgeon makes an incision inside the lower eyelid, which allows them to remove or reposition fat without leaving a visible scar. However, this technique does not allow for the removal of excess skin.
2. Transcutaneous Blepharoplasty: In this technique, the surgeon makes an incision just below the lashes or at the back of the eyelid. This allows them to remove or reposition fat, as well as remove excess skin. The incision line is well concealed by the lower lashes and typically fades with time.
3. Skin Pinch Blepharoplasty: This technique is often used when the primary issue is excess skin. The surgeon makes a small incision and removes a ‘pinch’ of skin from the lower eyelid, tightening the area and reducing wrinkles.
4. Canthoplasty: This is an adjunctive procedure that can be performed with lower blepharoplasty if there is significant laxity of the lower eyelid. The surgeon tightens the tendon that supports the lower eyelid, preventing postoperative sagging or ectropion.

Dr. Chiaramonte and Dr. Costeloe may also implement some specific changes; for example, the fatty tissue underneath the eye can be reshaped to eliminate bulginess or awkward lumps. In some individuals, the muscles that lie under this area will be tightened. The choice of technique depends on your anatomy and the specific issues you are looking to address. A consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons can help determine the best approach for you.

Asian Eyelid Surgery

Asian blepharoplasty or Asian eyelid surgery, also known as double eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure where Dr. Costeloe creates a visible fold or crease in the upper eyelid. This is a very popular, state-of-the-art procedure and can make the eyes appear larger and more open.

Is Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Eyelid surgery is not painful, and pain after your procedure in Maryland and DC is minimal. Most people experience discomfort only for the first one to two days after surgery. Depending on the circumstances, the procedure is done under local anesthetic, light sedation or under IV sedation. Therefore, you will not feel the incisions or anything that occurs during surgery.

As the numbing agents wear off after the procedure, you may experience discomfort, itching, tightness, soreness, and sensitivity around your eyes and eyelids. Dr. Chiaramonte and Dr. Costeloe will have previously discussed pain relief measures with you, which may include pain medication and anti-inflammatory eye drops. It is important that you follow our instructions regarding which pain relievers are okay to take and which should be avoided.

How Can I Prepare For Eyelid Surgery?

Preparation for your eyelid surgery procedure in Maryland and DC is minimal. We will provide complete detailed instructions, which typically include:

• Adjust, take, or stop taking medications and supplements as instructed by Dr. Chiaramonte and Dr. Costeloe
• Complete all requested lab work and tests
• Stop all use of tobacco and nicotine products
• Get plenty of rest
• Eat well and stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol intake
• Exercise
• Wear comfortable clothing to your surgical appointment
• Don’t wear contact lenses on the day of surgery
• Don’t eat or drink anything before surgery, as directed by our team

It may help to write down all your questions and concerns leading up to surgery. We will make sure you have time to discuss them with your surgeon before your procedure.

Recovery from Eyelid Surgery

Recovery from an eyelid procedure in Maryland and DC is relatively fast and easy. The area will be swollen and puffy after surgery. You may experience mild discomfort, and your vision will be blurry for the first week or so. Most people feel back to normal after 10-14 days when the majority of swelling and bruising resolves. Be patient and know that you may continue to undergo a healing process for a few months, which may include subtle reductions in swelling.

• The first day
  • In the first period of your healing, it’s important to rest on your back with your head in an upright position.
  • A cold compress on the area can reduce inflammation.

• Within the first week
  • Discoloration around your eyes will reach its peak and then begin to fade.
  • As the healing process takes place, slightly blurry vision, lots of tearing or noticeable dryness, photosensitivity, or itchiness can occur.
  • You can start to use cosmetics to conceal any bruising.
  • Your sutures will naturally dissolve or be taken out.
  • You may resume light activity.

• After several weeks
  • Most of the inflammation will disappear, and you’ll start to see the effects.
  • You may take up strenuous activities, including bending and lifting.
  • You may put in your normal contact lenses.

How Can I Maintain My Results?

Eyelid surgery results are long lasting. To maintain them, protect your eyes from excessive sun exposure. UV damage causes aging and sagging, in addition to increasing your risk of skin cancer. Wear sunglasses and hats when you’re outside and apply sunblock or an SPF 30 or higher moisturizer to the area of your temples and lower eyelids.

Lifestyle habits like smoking and moderate/heavy alcohol use also contribute to the signs of aging, including the aging of your eyelids. Eating healthfully, exercising, getting plenty of rest, and staying hydrated with plain water will all support the youthfulness of your skin.

Can I Combine Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures?

Yes, blepharoplasty in Maryland and DC is often combined with facelifts, neck lifts, and other rejuvenating procedures. Dermal fillers, toxin injections, and other non-invasive treatments may also be options.

Combining multiple surgeries into one appointment mainly provides the benefit of a single recovery period; however, Dr. Chiaramonte and Dr. Costeloe must first determine whether combined procedures will be safe and effective for you. Discuss this option during your consultation. Oftentimes, combing facial procedures provides a continuous, consistent rejuvenation result that includes the eyes, neck, and face.

Your New Look

Most signs of the procedure will fade after several weeks. The eye area, though, must be handled with great care for several months. If you go out in the daytime, you should apply a sunscreen product to your eyelids and wear tinted glasses to shield the area against harsh wind and sunlight.

The effects of eyelid lift surgery in Maryland and DC are typically long-lasting. It is important to remember, however, that nothing can reverse the aging process forever. During your visit, Dr. Chiaramonte and Dr. Costeloe can give you valuable information about methods to keep your eyes looking their best.