Introduction

Double eyelid repair surgery is a sought - after cosmetic procedure, especially in a cosmopolitan city like New York. This article aims to provide an in - depth review of the top 3 hospitals for double eyelid repair surgery in New York City. Before diving into the specific hospitals, let's first understand some basics about double eyelid surgery.

What is Double Eyelid Surgery?

Double eyelid surgery, also known as Asian blepharoplasty, is designed to create a crease in the upper eyelid of someone who doesn't have one or has a poorly - defined one. Approximately half of all Asians are born with single eyelids, which tend to make the eyes look smaller and can sometimes cause vision - related issues. This procedure has also gained popularity among Western patients who want to correct certain eyelid conditions, such as baggy eyelids. There are mainly two techniques: the incision technique and the non - incision (suture) techniques.

• Incision Technique: A small incision is made across the eyelid to form the double crease. It is suitable for patients with thick or excessive eyelid skin or fatty tissue. The results are permanent, but recovery times are longer, and scarring may be slightly more visible.
• Non - Incision (Suture) Techniques: These are suitable for patients with thinner skin and no obvious fatty deposits. Creases are formed by folding the eyelid skin and stitching the fold. The advantage is shorter downtime, and there is little or no scarring. However, the results are not permanent and may last only for several years.

Top 3 Hospitals for Double Eyelid Repair Surgery in New York City

1. The Clinic Associated with Dr. William Lao

Surgeon Background

Dr. William Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon. He is widely recognized as one of the best upper eyelid surgery and Asian eyelid plastic surgeons in New York. He has performed numerous upper eyelid blepharoplasty procedures at his New York office. He graduated from Johns Hopkins Medical School, one of the finest institutions in the world. He is also a frequent guest on the aesthetic publication, New Beauty, and his expertise is highly regarded in the field.

Services Offered

The clinic offers upper eyelid surgery (upper blepharoplasty), which is very popular among both Asian and Western patients. For Asian patients, it can create the desired double - fold appearance on the upper eyelid, while for all patients, it can correct severe eyelid sagging, improve vision blocked by droopy eyelids, and rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes. In addition, patients may also combine upper eyelid surgery with lower blepharoplasty, facelift, or non - surgical treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers.

Procedure and Recovery

There are two main categories of techniques for upper eyelid surgery at this clinic: incisional and non - incisional blepharoplasty. The non - incisional procedure is more appropriate for younger individuals with less excess skin and fat, while incisional blepharoplasty is often required for older patients with excess skin. After surgery, some swelling and bruising are normal and will dissipate over a few weeks. Most people take about one week off work, and more strenuous activities should be avoided for around two weeks.

Patient Testimonials

Many patients have left positive reviews about Dr. Lao. For example, a 57 - year - old female who had facial procedures including eyelid surgery in 2014 reported being 100% satisfied with the results. People around her said she looked 10 years younger, and her confidence level increased significantly. She also praised Dr. Lao for being kind, considerate, and compassionate.

Cost

The average cost of upper eyelid surgery in New York City at this clinic typically starts at $3,000 and can range up to $10,000 or more. The price varies based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia costs, and surgeon fees.

2. The Practice of Dr. Darrick Antell

Surgeon Background

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is board - certified in plastic surgery, with an emphasis on aesthetic cosmetic surgery. He has extensive experience in performing blepharoplasty, which is one of the plastic surgery procedures he offers.

Services Offered

The practice provides both upper and lower blepharoplasty. The goal of these procedures is to remove the excess fat, skin, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids, brighten the face, restore a more youthful appearance, and in some cases, improve vision by removing the excessive skin of the upper eyelids that may interfere with peripheral vision.

Procedure and Recovery

Eyelid surgery at this practice is usually performed under local anesthesia and light intravenous sedation, commonly in an outpatient basis at his accredited state - of - the - art surgical facility in New York. If getting surgery on both the upper and lower eyelids (double blepharoplasty), the procedure may take 2 hours. Immediately after the treatment, the eyelids will be swollen. Patients are advised to avoid physical activities for the day, sleep in an inclined position for the first few days, and avoid watching TV for the first 24 hours. They can resume mild physical activities after about 10 days, be comfortable in public in about two weeks, and resume all strenuous activities after 4 weeks.

Patient Considerations

Scarring is a concern for many patients. Dr. Antell carefully makes the incisions along the natural folds of the eyelids to ensure they are concealed. The incision scars will be most visible immediately after surgery but will fade away as the swelling and bruising dissipate. However, like any surgical procedure, there are risks such as temporary blurring of vision, temporary problems with eyelid closure, and in rare cases, an ectropion of the lower eyelid. The cost of the procedure depends on several factors including the type of blepharoplasty, operational costs of the surgical facility, surgeon's fees, anesthesia costs, and more.

3. The Facility Associated with Dr. Philipp Franck

Surgeon Background

Dr. Philipp Franck is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He completed his training at two prestigious Ivy League university hospitals. He is an expert in facial plastic surgery, including advanced blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). Since 2023, he has been named one of New York's rising star surgeons by the New York Times Magazine and serves as a clinical assistant professor at Cornell University Hospital in New York. His dedication to patient - centered care and excellent surgical outcomes have earned him a place in Castle Connolly's list of top doctors nationwide.

Services Offered

Dr. Franck offers both upper and lower eyelid surgery. He can assess each patient's anatomical structure and facial features to determine the most suitable approach for blepharoplasty. The surgery can address concerns such as sagging or droopy eyelids, bags under the eyes, and hooded upper eyelids. He also provides options to combine blepharoplasty with other procedures like brow lift, facelift, or skin resurfacing for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Procedure and Recovery

Upper blepharoplasty is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation, and lower blepharoplasty is usually performed under anesthesia. The process includes careful marking of the eyelids, precise incision placement (within the natural creases of the upper eyelid for upper eyelid surgery and either below the lash line or inside the lower lid for lower eyelid surgery), removal or repositioning of excess tissue, and closing the incisions with fine sutures to minimize scarring. Stitches are typically removed within a few days. Patients can expect mild swelling, bruising, or irritation in the first week. They can resume light activities within a week or two, and full healing can take a few months, but changes are noticeable much sooner.

Patient Consultation

The consultation process at Dr. Franck's facility is comprehensive. He will assess the eyelids, review the patient's medical history, explain the procedure in detail, and answer all the patient's questions. He will also determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for the surgery based on factors such as general health, realistic expectations, and concerns about eye appearance.

General Considerations for Double Eyelid Repair Surgery

Candidate Suitability

To be a suitable candidate for double eyelid repair surgery, one should generally be in good overall health without serious eye conditions or uncontrolled medical issues. For example, patients with thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or those who do not produce sufficient tears may face increased risks. It is also important to have realistic expectations about the surgery's outcomes. Non - smokers or those willing to quit are preferred as smoking can affect the healing process. In addition, patients should have concerns such as excess eyelid skin, under - eye bags, or vision obstruction caused by eyelid issues.

Pre - surgery Preparation

Before the surgery, patients need to follow several preparation steps. They should discontinue any blood thinners, supplements, and medications that may interfere with the surgery or recovery process as instructed by the surgeon. Smokers should stop using nicotine products in the weeks leading up to the surgery and stay nicotine - free during the recovery period. Patients should also fill prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics in advance. Arranging transportation after the surgery is essential, and they should also take time off from work and social commitments to allow for a proper recovery.

Post - surgery Care

After the surgery, immediate care usually involves keeping an ice compress on the eyelids for several hours to reduce bruising. In the first week, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or irritation. Continuing cold compresses and head elevation can help with swelling. Stitches are usually removed within 5 - 7 days. Patients can gradually resume normal activities, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. It may take several months for the tissue around the eyes to settle down and look natural, and the full healing process can take up to six months to a year.

Comparison of the Three Hospitals

Conclusion

Choosing the right hospital for double eyelid repair surgery in New York City is a crucial decision. The three hospitals reviewed in this article - the clinic associated with Dr. William Lao, the practice of Dr. Darrick Antell, and the facility associated with Dr. Philipp Franck - all have their unique strengths. Dr. Lao is well - known for upper eyelid surgery and Asian eyelid procedures, Dr. Antell offers comprehensive blepharoplasty with a focus on safety and scar management, and Dr. Franck provides advanced blepharoplasty and patient - centered care with options for combination treatments. When making a decision, patients should consider factors such as the surgeon's expertise, the available techniques, the expected recovery time, the cost, and most importantly, their own aesthetic goals and health conditions.

If you are considering double eyelid repair surgery, we encourage you to schedule consultations with these surgeons. During the consultations, you can ask detailed questions, learn more about the procedures, and get a personalized treatment plan. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and take the first step towards achieving your desired eye appearance.