Introduction
In the bustling city of New York, where beauty standards are high and the demand for aesthetic procedures is ever - growing, incisional double - eyelid surgery has gained significant popularity. This type of surgery can enhance the appearance of the eyes, giving them a more defined and awake look. Finding the right doctor and institution for this procedure is crucial for achieving the best results. In this article, we will explore the top institutions and doctors in New York City for incisional double - eyelid surgery, considering factors such as patient reviews, doctor experience, and success rates.
Understanding Incisional Double - Eyelid Surgery
What is Incisional Double - Eyelid Surgery?
Incisional double - eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty in a broader sense, is a surgical procedure that creates a crease in the upper eyelid. This is done by making an incision along the desired line of the eyelid crease, removing excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle. Then, the remaining tissues are sutured together to form the new eyelid crease. There are different types of eyelid surgeries, including upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty. Upper blepharoplasty is more relevant to creating double eyelids and can be used to address loose or sagging skin on the upper lids, as well as excess fat and puffiness around the eyes. The incisions are usually concealed in the natural eyelid crease to minimize scarring.
Benefits of Incisional Double - Eyelid Surgery
- Enhanced Appearance: It gives the eyes a more defined and brighter look, making the person appear more awake and youthful. This can boost self - confidence and enhance overall facial aesthetics.
- Improved Vision: In some cases where the excess skin on the upper eyelid is obstructing vision, this surgery can improve the field of vision.
- Long - lasting Results: Unlike some non - surgical alternatives, the results of incisional double - eyelid surgery are generally long - lasting, providing a more permanent solution for those seeking a change in their eyelid appearance.
Key Factors in Choosing a Doctor and Institution
Doctor Qualifications
The first and most important factor is the doctor's qualifications. A board - certified plastic surgeon or an oculoplastic surgeon with experience in eyelid surgery is highly recommended. For example, board - certified plastic surgeons have completed extensive training in surgical procedures and have met specific standards set by the certifying board. An oculoplastic surgeon, on the other hand, has specialized knowledge in the delicate structures around the eyes, which is crucial for incisional double - eyelid surgery.
Experience
Experience plays a vital role in the success of any surgical procedure. A doctor who has performed a large number of incisional double - eyelid surgeries is more likely to have refined their skills and can handle potential complications more effectively. For instance, a doctor with 15 - 25 years of experience in eyelid surgery has likely encountered a wide range of patient cases and can offer more tailored solutions.
Patient Reviews
Patient reviews provide valuable insights into the doctor's performance and the overall experience at the institution. Reading about other patients' real - life experiences, including their satisfaction with the results, the doctor's bedside manner, and the quality of after - care, can help you make an informed decision. For example, if a doctor has many positive reviews highlighting natural - looking results and minimal pain during recovery, it is a good sign.
Reputation of the Institution
The reputation of the institution where the surgery will be performed is also important. An institution with a good reputation is more likely to have state - of - the - art facilities, high - quality staff, and a commitment to patient safety. For example, an institution that is accredited by recognized organizations, such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, adheres to strict standards of quality and safety.
Cost
Cost is a practical consideration for many patients. The cost of incisional double - eyelid surgery can vary depending on factors such as the doctor's experience, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the institution. However, it is important not to compromise on quality for the sake of a lower price. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of eyelid surgery if it is deemed medically necessary, such as when the excess eyelid skin is obstructing vision. Otherwise, patients need to consider their budget and find a balance between cost and quality.
Ranking of Doctors for Incisional Double - Eyelid Surgery in New York City
Dr. Rasa Zarnegar, MD
Dr. Zarnegar is highly rated, with a 4.80 out of 5 - star rating on Healthgrades. She is located at 525 e. 68th street, New York, NY 10065. She is on staff at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital. Her high rating indicates that patients are satisfied with her services. She likely has the skills and experience to perform incisional double - eyelid surgery effectively, providing patients with good results and a positive overall experience.
Dr. Brendan Finnerty, MD
Dr. Finnerty has a perfect 5.00 out of 5 - star rating. He is located at 520 east 70th street Starr Pavilion, 8th floor, New York, NY 10021. Like Dr. Zarnegar, he is also on staff at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital. His high rating suggests that he is an excellent choice for patients seeking incisional double - eyelid surgery. He may have a great bedside manner, high - quality surgical skills, and provide comprehensive after - care.
Dr. William Lao, MD
Dr. Lao is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 16 years of experience and has 112 reviews. He accepts virtual consultations, which is convenient for patients. He has received positive real - life stories from patients, such as one patient who had a straightforward suture technique double - eyelid surgery and was able to show exactly what they wanted with tape, and the surgery was completed within 30 minutes. His experience and patient satisfaction make him a notable candidate for incisional double - eyelid surgery.
Dr. Jimmy C. Sung, MD
Dr. Sung is also a board - certified plastic surgeon with 25 years of experience and 127 reviews. He offers gender - affirming care. One patient reported that it had been 5 weeks post - (Asian) double - eyelid surgery, and the results were already looking super natural, although they were still slightly swollen. His long - term experience and positive patient feedback make him a reliable choice.
Dr. Brett S. Kotlus, MD, MS, FACS
Dr. Kotlus is an oculoplastic surgeon, board - certified in ophthalmology, with 19 years of experience and 192 reviews. He accepts virtual consultations and has 9 photos and 11 answers related to his work. A patient had an amazing experience with him and highly recommended his services, despite being nervous about the surgery due to the healing downtime. His specialization in oculoplastic surgery and positive patient testimonials make him a top - tier option.
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Experience (Years) | Number of Reviews | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Rasa Zarnegar, MD | 4.80 | N/A | N/A | General Surgery |
| Dr. Brendan Finnerty, MD | 5.00 | N/A | N/A | General Surgery |
| Dr. William Lao, MD | N/A | 16 | 112 | Plastic Surgery |
| Dr. Jimmy C. Sung, MD | N/A | 25 | 127 | Plastic Surgery |
| Dr. Brett S. Kotlus, MD, MS, FACS | N/A | 19 | 192 | Oculoplastic Surgery |
Notable Institutions for Incisional Double - Eyelid Surgery in New York City
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital
This hospital is affiliated with some of the highly - rated doctors mentioned above, such as Dr. Rasa Zarnegar and Dr. Brendan Finnerty. It is a well - known and respected medical institution. It likely has advanced medical facilities, a team of experienced medical staff, and strict safety protocols. The hospital's reputation for providing high - quality healthcare makes it a reliable choice for incisional double - eyelid surgery.
Center Aesthetic & Dermatology
Center Aesthetic & Dermatology has a 5.0 rating. It is described as gorgeous and clean, with friendly staff. Nurse Lynn at the center is known for rejuvenating the face without an over - done look. This institution may offer a combination of aesthetic and dermatological services, providing a comprehensive approach to patient care during and after incisional double - eyelid surgery.
RR Plastix NY Plastic Surgery Center
This center offers incisional double - eyelid surgery as well as 31 other procedures across 2 different procedure categories. It is accredited by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which means it meets certain standards of quality and safety. Although the pricing information for eyelid surgery is only available on request, the center's range of services and accreditation make it a viable option for patients.
Preparing for Incisional Double - Eyelid Surgery
Consultation
Before the surgery, it is essential to have a detailed consultation with the doctor. During this consultation, the doctor will evaluate your eyelids, facial features, and overall health. They will discuss your goals and expectations for the surgery and explain the procedure in detail, including the type of anesthesia to be used, the potential risks and complications, and the expected recovery time. You should also take this opportunity to ask any questions you may have and express any concerns.
Medical Tests
Your doctor may order certain medical tests to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery. These tests may include blood tests, eye exams, and electrocardiograms. The results of these tests will help the doctor determine if there are any underlying health conditions that need to be addressed before the surgery.
Lifestyle Changes
You may need to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. For example, you should stop smoking at least 1 week before the surgery, as smoking can affect the healing process. You should also avoid consuming alcohol 1 week before surgery and refrain from drinking for at least 72 hours after the surgery. Additionally, you should avoid taking any drugs containing aspirin or drugs such as Motrin, Advil, or Premarin 1 week before surgery, as these can increase the risk of bleeding.
The Surgery Process
Anesthesia
Upper blepharoplasty for incisional double - eyelid surgery is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation, but some patients may opt for general anesthesia depending on individual needs and comfort levels. Lower blepharoplasty is usually performed under anesthesia, as the procedure tends to be more complex. The anesthesiologist will monitor your vital signs throughout the surgery to ensure your safety.
Surgical Steps
- Preparation and Marking: The doctor will carefully mark the areas around your eyelids to determine how much skin or fat should be removed. This is a crucial step to ensure the desired shape and symmetry of the new eyelid crease.
- Incision Placement: For upper eyelid surgery, incisions are made within the natural creases of the upper eyelid to hide scars. For lower eyelid surgery, incisions may be placed either just below the lash line or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach).
- Tissue Removal or Repositioning: The doctor will remove excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle and reposition the remaining tissues to create a more youthful contour.
- Closing the Incisions: The doctor will use very fine sutures to minimize scarring. The stitches are typically removed within a few days after the surgery.
Recovery and After - Care
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. You may experience mild swelling, bruising, or irritation around your eyes. Cold compresses and head elevation will help reduce the swelling. You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery, as you may be prescribed pain medication that can make it unsafe to drive or operate machinery.
Stitch Removal
Sutures are usually removed within 5 - 7 days after the surgery. Your doctor will check the healing progress during this visit and provide further instructions for after - care.
Returning to Normal Activities
Most people can resume light activities within a week or two after the surgery, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. You should also avoid wearing contact lenses until at least 2 weeks after the surgery. You can take showers from the neck down immediately after the surgery, but you should not wet your face for at least 5 days after the surgery. You should avoid putting makeup on your eyes for 1 week post - op.
Long - Term After - Care
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for long - term after - care. This may include using prescribed eye drops or creams to keep the area clean and aid in the healing process. You should also protect your eyes from the sun and wind by wearing sunglasses with a good, dark tint. Regular follow - up appointments with your doctor will ensure that your eyes are healing properly and that you are satisfied with the results.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, incisional double - eyelid surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. Some of the possible risks include:
- Infection or Bleeding: Proper wound care and following post - operative instructions can help minimize this risk. Your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the incisions to prevent infection.
- Dryness or Irritation: Your eyes may feel dry or irritated following the surgery. Prescribed eye drops usually alleviate this symptom.
- Temporary Changes in Vision: Blurred or double vision can occur but typically resolves on its own. However, if the vision problems persist, you should contact your doctor immediately.
- Scarring: While scars are usually discreet and well - concealed, some individuals may experience more visible scarring. Your doctor can recommend scar - reducing treatments if necessary.
- Mismatch in Eyelid Size: In rare cases, there may be a mismatch in the size between the two eyelids. This can often be corrected with additional surgical procedures.
Conclusion
Incisional double - eyelid surgery can be a life - changing procedure for those looking to enhance the appearance of their eyes. In New York City, there are many highly qualified doctors and institutions that can provide excellent results. When choosing a doctor and institution, it is important to consider factors such as qualifications, experience, patient reviews, reputation, and cost. Preparing for the surgery, understanding the surgery process, and following the post - operative instructions are crucial for a successful outcome. While there are potential risks and complications, with proper care and a skilled surgeon, these can be minimized.
If you are considering incisional double - eyelid surgery in New York City, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple doctors, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic and explore related resources to learn more about eyelid surgery and aesthetic procedures.
