Can I wear contact lenses after eyelid surgery?

Dr. Lewen will provide full postoperative instructions. However, we encourage that our contact lens-wearing patients refrain from wearing contacts for approximately two to three weeks after surgery, or when cleared by Dr. Lewen.

Are there complications to eyelid surgery?

As with all plastic surgery procedures, complications can sometimes happen. Dr. Lewen always places patient safety as his number one priority, and therefore, more serious complications are very rare. Possible complications from eyelid surgery can include, but are not limited to prolonged swelling or bruising, worsening of dry eyes, the inability to completely close your eyes properly, infection, vision loss or changes, scarring, asymmetry, poor healing along the incision, and the possible need for additional surgery or procedures to achieve the best result. During your consultation, Dr. Lewen will go over the risks, benefits, and alternatives to your procedure in detail.

Our patients are typically very encouraged by the lack of significant or more noticeable scarring from blepharoplasty. For the first 3-6 months, it can be common to have a scar that appears somewhat pink. In most cases, this fades over time.

Can I work out after blepharoplasty?

While we always encourage a healthy diet and a well-balanced exercise routine, it is typically important to refrain from strenuous activity or workouts for approximately 2-3 weeks after surgery. This can vary with individual patients and activity levels.

Is eyelid surgery in Miami expensive?

It may be better to think of Eyelid Surgery in Miami as an investment in yourself. After a successful procedure, many of our patients will report a significant boost in their self-confidence that has a value far greater than the monetary cost of surgery. The exact cost will depend on the specific details of your procedure, as every patient is different. It is also important to understand that Dr. Lewen is an eyelid surgery specialist. This means that he dedicates a large portion of his practice to fixing surgical complications from eyelid surgery that was done by other doctors. Very frequently, the cost of revision eyelid surgery can be much more expensive than the original surgery might have been, and this is due to a variety of factors. We offer financing options that can help ease the payment.

Can I combine eyelid surgery with other procedures?

Other procedures may be recommended to be performed in combination with eyelid surgery to improve the transition between the eyelids and the surrounding areas of the face. In these cases, the addition of other procedures at the same time as blepharoplasty can give a better overall result due to improved facial balance and harmony. A mid-facelift , facial fat grafting , nano fat injections, CO2 laser resurfacing , direct or CO2 laser festoon treatment, Morpheus8 RF energy with microneedling, and/or dermal fillers may be suggested by Dr. Lewen to give you the best possible result and enhance your overall aesthetic outcome.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) In Miami, FL

Introduction

Introduction to Eyelid Surgery

At our boutique practice in Aventura, centrally located between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, eyelid surgery is our most popular procedure and expertly performed by double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, Gregory D. Lewen, M.D. Our practice offers eyelid surgery for men and women in Miami and the surrounding areas of Florida. Dr. Lewen is one of the few plastic surgeons in the region who specializes in plastic surgery of the eyes and has done extensive training in this field.

Before & After Photos

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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) B&A

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What is Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure that is commonly done to improve the appearance of droopy skin, heavy bags, and/or tired-looking eyes. This procedure can be performed for the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or for both areas. Commonly, many people will desire this surgery to brighten up the eyes and to help make them appear more rested, refreshed, youthful, and confident in their appearance.

The eyes are a very sensitive and important part of the body, and your vision may be the most valuable of your senses. When considering any cosmetic eyelid surgery, it is so important to seek a surgeon with experience and who has advanced knowledge of the anatomy of the delicate areas around the eyes and surrounding parts of the face. When it comes to eyelid surgery, an oculoplastic or oculofacial plastic surgeon, as compared to a general plastic surgeon or any other specialty, is specifically trained in microsurgical techniques to address the finer details around the eyes while ensuring the health of the eyes and vision remains a top priority.

woman preparing to get eyelid surgery | Top Miami Surgeon Gregory D. Lewen, MD

Understanding the Different Types of Eyelid Surgery

While traditional eyelid surgery might be the best procedure for you, it’s important to understand that there are options. Some patients require only lower eyelid surgery, while other patients need only upper blepharoplasty. A major part of our practice is also dedicated to revision eyelid surgery. Below, we’ve covered the different types, as well as Asian eyelid surgery, which we perform for our patients of Asian descent.

Lower Eyelid Surgery

The appearance of bags in the lower eyelids is usually a result of fat pockets from the eye socket that have become more noticeable over time. Although traditionally these fat pockets were just removed, in most cases, a more modern approach to lower eyelid blepharoplasty surgery involves sculpting these fat pockets and re-positioning this fat into other areas of the lower eyelid that are missing volume. This approach allows Dr. Lewen to create a much more natural-appearing result, and he is able to avoid having issues with the eyelids appearing too hollow or sunken after surgery. Hollowness in the eyelids can frequently create a more aged appearance, and this would not be a desired result of surgery.

For lower eyelid surgery, the average procedure time is approximately two hours. There are two basic approaches to this procedure, with the incisions either made through the skin hidden in the corners of the eyes and underneath the eyelashes, or with the incisions hidden on the inside of the lower eyelid. The type of approach to the lower eyelid that is best for each individual patient will be determined by Dr. Lewen at the time of your consultation and is based on a variety of factors such as your individual anatomy, the amount of excess skin present, the number of fat pockets that are present, your natural skin tone, other conditions that may be present, and the type of cosmetic result that is desired. For more information on lower eyelid surgery, please view our page on the surgery, which provides a lot more details on this procedure.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Upper eyelid surgery in Miami with expert oculofacial plastic surgeon, Dr. Gregory Lewen is ideal for many patients whose upper eyelids may appear to droop. Upper blepharoplasty takes about one hour to perform on average. The procedure is often referred to as an “upper eyelid lift.” The incision for this procedure is usually made within the fold of the upper eyelid so it would not be visible when the eyes are open. Stitches are used to close the incision and they are usually removed about one week after surgery during a quick and painless office visit. The procedure can be performed under IV (conscious) sedation, or with oral sedation and local injections, depending on the preferences of you and Dr. Lewen. For some patients with certain medical conditions, additional monitoring may also be required.

For more information on upper eyelid surgery, please view our full page on the procedure.

Often, a mini-browlift or “brow tuck” procedure may be recommended to do in combination with an upper eyelid lift as both areas can contribute to the appearance of saggy, droopy, upper eyelid skin. When both issues are addressed together, many patients will have a greater level of satisfaction with their results.

Asian Eyelid Surgery

Men and women of Asian descent tend to have upper eyelids that do not have as well-defined of a pretarsal crease, the fold of tissue that is found in the upper eyelid area. This can potentially cause the eyes to appear heavier and sometimes with less light when compared to some other eye shapes. Asian eyelid surgery is performed to enhance the crease.

Revision Eyelid Surgery

Revision eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty revision, corrects unsatisfactory results or complications from a previous eyelid surgery, often one performed elsewhere. A major part of Dr. Lewen’s Miami practice is dedicated to revision cases, which can include overcorrection (too much skin or fat removed), a hollowed or sunken appearance, visible or webbed scarring, lid crease issues, eyelid retraction, or a change in the shape of the eyes. Because previously operated eyelid tissue may be scarred or compromised, revision blepharoplasty is significantly more complex than a primary procedure and should be performed by a fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon who can protect both your appearance and the health of your eyes and vision. If you are unhappy with the results of eyelid surgery performed by another doctor, we invite you to learn more on our revision eyelid surgery page or schedule a consultation at our Aventura office, serving Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Droopy Eyelid Surgery (Ptosis Repair)

Ptosis repair is often confused with upper blepharoplasty, but the two procedures treat different problems. While blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat, droopy eyelid surgery corrects ptosis, a drooping of the eyelid margin itself, usually caused by stretching or weakening of the levator muscle that lifts the eyelid. Patients with ptosis frequently say their eyes look small, heavy, or tired in photos, and in more advanced cases, the drooping lid can actually block the upper field of vision. Depending on your eyelid measurements, Dr. Lewen may recommend an internal approach with no external incision, or an external approach hidden within the natural eyelid crease. Ptosis repair can also be combined with cosmetic blepharoplasty for a comprehensive result. Learn more on our droopy eyelid surgery (ptosis) page.

Canthoplasty & Canthopexy

Canthoplasty and canthopexy are specialized procedures that address the outer corner of the eye, known as the lateral canthus. Canthopexy tightens and supports a lax lower eyelid, while canthoplasty reconstructs and repositions the corner of the eye to correct drooping, rounding, or sagging, and in some cases to subtly enhance eye shape, such as in the popular “fox eye” or almond-eye look. These techniques are frequently performed alongside lower blepharoplasty to provide proper eyelid support and prevent post-surgical complications like eyelid retraction. Because the lateral canthus is a delicate anatomic structure, canthal surgery demands the precision of an oculofacial plastic specialist. Visit our canthoplasty / canthopexy page to learn whether one of these procedures may be right for you.

Ectropion & Entropion Repair

Ectropion and entropion are eyelid malposition conditions that affect both comfort and appearance. With ectropion, the lower eyelid turns outward and sags away from the eye, which can cause tearing, redness, irritation, and chronic dryness. With entropion, the eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye with every blink — an uncomfortable condition that can lead to blurry vision and corneal scarring if left untreated. These conditions may develop from age-related eyelid laxity, scarring, sun damage, or as a complication of previous eyelid surgery. As a double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, Dr. Lewen performs ectropion and entropion repair surgery for patients throughout Miami, Aventura, and Fort Lauderdale, restoring the eyelid to its correct, healthy position against the eye.

Eyelid Surgery for Men

More men than ever are seeking eyelid surgery in Miami, and male blepharoplasty requires a distinctly different approach from surgery performed on women. Men’s eyelids differ in brow position, skin thickness, and lid crease height, and preserving a natural, masculine appearance is essential — an overly elevated crease or over-resected eyelid can unintentionally feminize the eyes. Dr. Lewen tailors his surgical planning for his male patients with these differences in mind, helping men look more rested, alert, and confident without looking “done.” Whether you’re concerned about hooded upper lids, under-eye bags, or a tired appearance that doesn’t match how you feel, visit our eyelid surgery for men page to learn more about male blepharoplasty in Miami, Aventura, and Fort Lauderdale.

What are the Benefits of Blepharoplasty?

There are countless benefits to getting Eyelid Surgery in Miami with Dr. Lewen. Below, we’ve listed some noteworthy advantages to the surgery:

Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure. While it takes an expert blepharoplasty surgeon to provide the best results. You’ll be able to rest and recuperate from the luxury of your own home.
Blepharoplasty can easily be combined with other surgical or non-surgical procedures to complement the procedure
In a matter of just a few hours, the procedure will take years off your face.
Our patients constantly say that it makes them look and feel more refreshed and less tired.

Who are the Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?

There are many different reasons for having a blepharoplasty in Miami with Dr. Lewen and, there are multiple candidates for the procedure. Below, we’ve listed several:

If you have wrinkles under your eyes and a loss of elastin or collagen due to age you may be a good candidate.
If you’ve started noticing puffy under-eye bags, you may be a great candidate
If you feel you have heavy or tired appearing eyes, due to age or genetics, you may be an ideal candidate.
If you have loose skin in the upper eyelids, which can sometimes obstruct your vision, you may be a perfect candidate.

dr lewen in dark scale performing surgery | Top Miami Surgeon Gregory D. Lewen, MD

Let’s Get Started

What Should I do before my Blepharoplasty?

The first step to your Miami eyelid surgery is to get in touch! After filling out a contact form or giving us a ring, our compassionate staff will help to set up a consultation so that you can meet one-on-one with Dr. Lewen. During your consultation, you’ll be able to let Dr. Lewen know your specific cosmetic goals and desires and ask any questions. Dr. Lewen will provide a thorough assessment of your eyes and go over with you his expert suggestions.

If you’re comfortable with Dr. Lewen’s recommendations and the treatment plan, surgery will be booked, and we’ll provide you with full preoperative instructions. It’s vital that you follow these instructions, as it will lead to the best possible outcome. For your safety, Dr. Lewen will want to know the details of your medical history and all medications you are currently taking.

Remember, it’s important that you’re as honest and open with Dr. Lewen as possible. Good communication always leads to optimal results.

What Should I Expect from Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty?

Since the shape of everyone’s face is different, eyelid surgery is frequently customized to meet the anatomic needs and cosmetic concerns of each individual patient. The various techniques for performing these procedures can vary significantly in factors such as complexity, length of procedure, cost, and patient recovery time. The technique that will be best to address one patient’s cosmetic concerns may be based on that person’s individual anatomy, other medical or eye conditions, previous surgeries, the potential for scarring and/or pigmentation issues, and the desired result.

Although blepharoplasty may frequently involve sculpting and removal of some tissue, there are also several, more modern treatment techniques that are frequently utilized to more effectively balance the neighboring areas of the face with the eyes and eyelids to create more natural facial harmony. Volume replacement in specific areas around the eyes is one of the more common procedures that may be performed in conjunction with blepharoplasty.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Your recovery will depend on the specific details of what your surgery will include, your medical history and medications, the actual procedure(s) performed, and the surgical time involved. Individual patient recovery and the healing period after surgery can vary greatly.

For upper eyelid surgery, the average downtime is typically about one to two weeks, during which most of the bruising and swelling will likely recede. For lower eyelid surgery, the average downtime can vary around at least two to three weeks for most of the bruising and swelling to recede.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Cost

How Much Does Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty Cost in Miami?

The cost of eyelid surgery in Miami, Aventura & Fort Lauderdale by Dr. Lewen is based on the treatment plan that he will develop with you during your consultation. We invite you to learn about our financing options prior to your consultation.

Why choose us for a Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?

Our eyes are one of the most delicate parts of our bodies. When choosing a surgeon to operate on you, you should always select an expert in the field. Dr. Lewen is a double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, a fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. Lewen prides himself on his expertise in eyelid surgery, his relationships with his patients, and his bedside manner.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) FAQ’S

As with all plastic surgery procedures, complications can sometimes happen. Dr. Lewen always places patient safety as his number one priority, and therefore, more serious complications are very rare. Possible complications from eyelid surgery can include, but are not limited to prolonged swelling or bruising, worsening of dry eyes, the inability to completely close your eyes properly, infection, vision loss or changes, scarring, asymmetry, poor healing along the incision, and the possible need for additional surgery or procedures to achieve the best result. During your consultation, Dr. Lewen will go over the risks, benefits, and alternatives to your procedure in detail.
It may be better to think of Eyelid Surgery in Miami as an investment in yourself. After a successful procedure, many of our patients will report a significant boost in their self-confidence that has a value far greater than the monetary cost of surgery. The exact cost will depend on the specific details of your procedure, as every patient is different. It is also important to understand that Dr. Lewen is an eyelid surgery specialist. This means that he dedicates a large portion of his practice to fixing surgical complications from eyelid surgery that was done by other doctors. Very frequently, the cost of revision eyelid surgery can be much more expensive than the original surgery might have been, and this is due to a variety of factors.

We offer financing options that can help ease the payment.
Other procedures may be recommended to be performed in combination with eyelid surgery to improve the transition between the eyelids and the surrounding areas of the face. In these cases, the addition of other procedures at the same time as blepharoplasty can give a better overall result due to improved facial balance and harmony. A mid-facelift, facial fat grafting, nano fat injections, CO2 laser resurfacing, direct or CO2 laser festoon treatment, Morpheus8 RF energy with microneedling, and/or dermal fillers may be suggested by Dr. Lewen to give you the best possible result and enhance your overall aesthetic outcome.

Schedule your consultation

Dr. Lewen is one of the few plastic surgeons in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale area who specializes in plastic surgery of the eyes, including eyelid surgery/blepharoplasty. His patients feel that he provides the best eyelid surgery in Miami and the greater metropolitan area. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive consultation to learn more about our services.