Introduction to External Incision Blepharoplasty in New York City

External incision blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, has gained significant popularity in recent years. In 2025, it continues to be among the top - five plastic surgery procedures performed on both men and women in the United States. Over 175,000 cases were performed in the US in a single year previously, demonstrating its widespread appeal. This procedure aims to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes, addressing issues such as sagging eyelids, dark circles, and puffy eyes.

Benefits of External Incision Blepharoplasty

• Enhanced Appearance: It provides a brighter, more alert look, making patients appear years younger. By removing excess skin and fat, it can give the eyes a more youthful contour.
• Improved Vision: In cases where sagging eyelids obstruct peripheral vision, blepharoplasty can expand the field of vision, improving the overall quality of life for the patient.
• Long - lasting Results: Although natural aging continues, the outcomes of blepharoplasty often last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Blepharoplasty

1. Surgeon's Expertise: The experience and skill of the plastic surgeon are crucial. Look for board - certified surgeons with a proven track record in performing blepharoplasty. For example, Dr. John E. Sherman is a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York with over 40 years of experience in the field.
2. Patient Reviews: Reading reviews from previous patients can give you an idea of the hospital's quality of care, the surgeon's bedside manner, and the overall satisfaction of patients who have undergone the procedure.
3. Hospital Facilities: State - of - the - art facilities and equipment ensure a safe and comfortable surgical experience. Accredited hospitals and surgical centers are more likely to adhere to strict safety standards.
4. Cost and Payment Options: The cost of blepharoplasty can vary depending on several factors. It's important to understand the total cost and explore payment options, including financing, to make an informed decision.

Top 5 Hospitals for External Incision Blepharoplasty in New York City

1. Practice of Dr. John E. Sherman

Dr. John E. Sherman's plastic surgery office is conveniently located to serve New York. Dr. Sherman is a highly experienced board - certified plastic surgeon with over 40 years in the field, specializing in facial rejuvenation. He offers both upper - eyelid and lower - eyelid surgery, tailoring the approach based on the patient's age, the amount of fat in the eyelids, and the elasticity of the skin.

Techniques Offered

• Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty: Ideal for younger patients with puffy upper and lower eyelids. The incision is made inside the eyelid, avoiding visible scars. This procedure is often used when the skin has enough elasticity to contract without the need for significant skin removal.
• Lower Eyelid Resuspension or Canthopexy: Suitable for older patients with lax lower eyelids. This procedure repositions or tightens the lower eyelid, restoring its natural shape and tension.
• Laser Resurfacing of the Eyelids: Performed in conjunction with blepharoplasty, laser resurfacing can provide a younger, fresher look by minimizing fine wrinkling caused by aging or sun damage.

Patient Experience

Patients at Dr. Sherman's office have reported high levels of satisfaction. One patient said, “Dr. Sherman did my upper and lower eyelids 2 weeks ago. I could not be happier with the experience (very caring, very professional, virtually painless) or with the results. I would recommend him without reservation.”

2. Practice Associated with Philipp Franck, M.D.

Dr. Philipp Franck is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He completed his training at two prestigious Ivy League university hospitals and is an expert in facial plastic surgery, including advanced blepharoplasty. 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.

Procedure Process

1. Consultation: Dr. Franck carefully assesses the patient's eyelids, evaluates the skin and underlying structures, and considers the patient's goals. He also reviews the patient's medical history and may require clearance from an ophthalmologist.
2. Preparation and Marking: Before the surgery, Dr. Franck marks the areas around the eyelids to determine how much skin or fat should be removed.
3. 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).
4. Tissue Removal or Repositioning: Excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are removed or repositioned to create a more youthful contour.
5. Closing the Incisions: Dr. Franck uses very fine sutures to minimize scarring, and stitches are typically removed within a few days.

Patient Benefits

• Personalized Approach: Dr. Franck tailors the blepharoplasty procedure to each patient's unique needs, ensuring natural - looking results that complement the patient's facial structure.
• Comprehensive Rejuvenation: He offers the option to combine blepharoplasty with other procedures such as brow lift, facelift, or skin resurfacing for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

3. Practice of Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS

Dr. Lara Devgan is well - known for her expertise in blepharoplasty. Her practice in New York City offers high - quality eyelid surgery with a focus on achieving beautiful, natural results.

Indications for Blepharoplasty

A blepharoplasty at Dr. Devgan's practice can address various issues, including tired - looking eyes, drooping eyelids, thin or crepey eyelid skin, dark circles under the eyes, puffy bags under the eyes, deep tear troughs, hooding of the eyelids, Asian eyelids without an upper lid crease, and prominent crow's feet.

Surgical Experience

Dr. Devgan performs blepharoplasties under sedation administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist, using protective corneal shields to keep the eyes safe. The procedure is relatively painless, and all scars are either hidden inside the pink part of the eyelids or camouflaged along a skin crease.

Recovery Process

Patients can go home the same day after surgery. They may wear eyeglasses immediately but should avoid contact lenses for the first several days. Swelling and bruising typically subside within a week, and patients will notice a more refreshed, rested, and youthful appearance around their eyes.

4. Mount Sinai - New York

Mount Sinai is a well - respected medical institution in New York City. Their blepharoplasty surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis at their private, ambulatory surgery center.

Procedure Details

The goal of blepharoplasty at Mount Sinai is to improve eyelid contour, tighten the skin, and create a smoother, more refreshed appearance. The most common form of blepharoplasty uses a camouflaged incision in the crease of the upper eyelid and another just below the lash line of the lower eyelid. In certain instances, an incision can be completely hidden inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach).

Anesthesia Options

Blepharoplasty at Mount Sinai can be performed under local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation. The choice of anesthesia depends on the patient's condition and the complexity of the procedure.

Post - operative Care

After surgery, patients are usually given a short course of antibiotics and mild pain medication. They should expect to return to work or social activities within one to two weeks and avoid strenuous activities for two weeks after surgery.

5. Cangello Plastic Surgery

Dr. David Cangello is one of the top board - certified plastic surgeons in New York City. His practice, Cangello Plastic Surgery, is known for providing unparalleled service and expertise in blepharoplasty.

Candidate Selection

Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty at Cangello Plastic Surgery are men and women in good health who are unhappy with age - related or genetic changes to their eyelid area. However, patients with certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, dry eyes, glaucoma, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes may need approval from an ophthalmologist before the procedure.

Surgical Approach

Dr. Cangello may use a variety of techniques, including excision of excess skin, laser resurfacing, excision of fat bulging from the eyelids, repositioning of fat, and tightening of the lower eyelid with a canthopexy or canthoplasty. He carefully selects the most appropriate approach based on the patient's individual needs.

Recovery and Aftercare

After blepharoplasty, patients may experience tightness, achy feeling, dryness, or itchiness in the eyelids. Pain medication will be prescribed to alleviate discomfort. Bruising and swelling are common but can be reduced with cold compresses and keeping the head elevated. Most patients can resume regular activities three weeks after the procedure.

Comparison of the Top 5 Hospitals

Preparing for External Incision Blepharoplasty

Medical Consultation

Before undergoing blepharoplasty, patients should schedule a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's eyelids, review the medical history, and discuss the patient's goals and expectations. In some cases, a pre - operative evaluation by an ophthalmologist may be required, especially for patients with existing eye conditions.

Medication Management

Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding medication management. This may include discontinuing blood thinners, supplements, and medications that may interfere with the surgery or recovery process to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding. If the patient is a smoker or uses nicotine products, they should stop using them several weeks before and after the surgery, as nicotine can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.

Logistical Preparations

Patients should arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility, as they may not be able to drive themselves after the procedure. They should also fill any prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics in advance and arrange time off from work and social commitments to allow for a proper recovery.

The Blepharoplasty Procedure

Anesthesia

External incision blepharoplasty is usually performed under intravenous sedation anesthesia, supplemented with local anesthesia. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used depending on the patient's preference and the complexity of the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will continuously monitor the patient during the surgery.

Incisions and Tissue Manipulation

For upper eyelid surgery, incisions are typically made within the natural creases of the upper eyelid to hide scars. For lower eyelid surgery, incisions may be placed just below the lash line or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach). The surgeon will then remove or reposition excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle to create a more youthful contour. After the tissue manipulation, the incisions are closed with fine sutures.

Duration of the Procedure

The duration of the blepharoplasty procedure can vary depending on whether it is an upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or double blepharoplasty. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.

Recovery After External Incision Blepharoplasty

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, the patient will be transferred to the recovery room and monitored for a short period. They may be advised to maintain an ice compress on the eyelids for several hours to reduce bruising. The patient may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising are common after blepharoplasty. Swelling usually lasts up to three weeks, and bruising typically fades within 10 days. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help reduce these symptoms.

Return to Normal Activities

Most patients can return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks, depending on the individual's healing process. However, strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. The final results of the blepharoplasty become apparent as the swelling subsides, usually within two months.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, external incision blepharoplasty carries certain risks and potential complications. These include:

• Infection or Bleeding: Although uncommon, proper wound care and following post - operative instructions can help minimize this risk.
• Dryness or Irritation: Eyes may feel dry or irritated after surgery, but this can usually be alleviated with prescribed eye drops.
• Temporary Changes in Vision: Blurred or double vision can occur but typically resolves on its own.
• Scarring: While scars are usually discreet and well - concealed, some individuals may experience more visible scarring.

It's important for patients to have a thorough discussion with their surgeon about all potential risks and complications before the procedure.

Conclusion

External incision blepharoplasty is a popular and effective procedure for rejuvenating the appearance of