As we age, the skin around our eyes undergoes various changes, and upper eyelid skin sagging is a common concern. In New York City, a vibrant hub for medical innovation and excellence, there are several hospitals renowned for their expertise in correcting upper eyelid skin sagging. This article will introduce you to the top 5 selected hospitals, providing in - depth information about their services, surgeons, and patient experiences.
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Overview of Eyelid Surgery Services
Mount Sinai offers comprehensive eyelid surgery services. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, at Mount Sinai is performed by expert plastic surgeons with precision. This procedure not only improves the appearance of the eyes but also has functional benefits. Puffiness, drooping, and fine lines around the eyes can make a person look tired or older than they really are. Eyelid surgery tightens the skin, giving a smoother and more refreshed appearance.
In some cases, excess skin over the eyes can cause visual impairment. Mount Sinai's team collaborates with vision specialists to determine if eliminating the sagging of the upper eyelids can restore vision. Moreover, with the recommendation of an eye doctor, patients may be eligible for insurance coverage for the procedure.
Surgical Techniques
During the surgery, plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai are skilled at camouflaging incisions. For upper eyelid surgery, the incision can be made in the crease of the upper eyelid, which is a natural and discreet location. In lower eyelid surgery, the incision can be along the lower eyelid’s lash line or completely hidden inside the lower eyelid.
Additional Considerations
While patients are undergoing eyelid surgery to refresh their faces, they may also consider other procedures such as face - lifts or eyebrow lifts to enhance the overall appearance of their face. Mount Sinai's team can provide comprehensive advice on such combined procedures based on each patient's unique needs.
2. Dr. William Lao's Practice
Introduction to Upper Eyelid Surgery
Upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, is one of Dr. William Lao's most popular procedures. Over time, the upper eyelids can droop, making a person look tired, bored, and older. In severe cases, ptosis (sagging of the upper eyelid) can obscure a portion of the vision, reducing the quality of life. Dr. Lao, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in NYC, has immense technical precision and a sharp eye for facial aesthetics, which enables him to deliver amazingly natural and beautiful results.
Candidate Selection
The best candidates for upper blepharoplasty in Dr. Lao's practice are patients in good overall physical health who do not smoke and want to improve their upper eyelids. Many Asian patients, in particular, request a double fold in their eyelids, and Dr. Lao's surgery can achieve this while retaining the patient's natural cultural characteristics and features.
Benefits of the Surgery
The benefits of upper eyelid surgery at Dr. Lao's practice are numerous. Patients will look less tired and more rejuvenated. Many patients also report improved vision after the surgery. It also increases self - confidence in the way they look. The average cost of upper eyelid surgery in New York City typically starts at $3,000 and can range up to $10,000 or more, depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia costs, and surgeon fees. A consultation with Dr. Lao is the first step to get a personalized cost estimate and detailed information about the surgery.
Recovery Process
After the surgery, patients can expect some swelling and bruising, which will dissipate over a few weeks. Makeup can be used to cover any residual bruising. Most people take about one week off work, and strenuous activities should be avoided for around two weeks. Dr. Lao provides pre - and post - operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
3. Dr. Philipp Franck's Practice
Expertise in Blepharoplasty
Dr. Philipp Franck, a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, is an expert in advanced blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). He completed his training at two prestigious Ivy League university hospitals and serves as a clinical assistant professor at Cornell University Hospital in New York. His dedication to patient - centered care and excellent surgical outcomes has earned him a place in Castle Connolly’s list of top doctors nationwide.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Upper blepharoplasty at Dr. Franck's practice is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation, while lower blepharoplasty is usually performed under anesthesia due to its complexity. The process starts with careful marking of the areas around the eyelids to determine the amount of skin or fat to be removed. Incisions are made strategically: in the natural creases of the upper eyelid for upper blepharoplasty and either just below the lash line or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach) for lower blepharoplasty. Excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are removed or repositioned, and then the incisions are closed with very fine sutures to minimize scarring.
Benefits and Results
The benefits of blepharoplasty include an enhanced appearance, with patients looking brighter and more alert, which can make them appear years younger. It can also improve vision if sagging eyelids were obstructing the field of vision. The removal of under - eye bags makes the eyes look fresher and more rejuvenated, and the results are long - lasting. The different techniques, such as upper and lower eyelid surgery, can be tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Consultation and Patient Assessment
The consultation process is in - depth. Dr. Franck assesses the skin and underlying structures of the eyelids, reviews the patient's medical history, and may require ophthalmologist clearance for patients with certain eye conditions. He explains the procedure, including incision placement, anesthesia options, and likely recovery timelines, and answers all the patient's questions to ensure they are well - informed and confident about the surgery.
4. Dr. David Cangello's Practice
Comprehensive Eyelid Surgery Solutions
Dr. David Cangello, a board - certified plastic surgeon, offers comprehensive eyelid surgery solutions. Blepharoplasty can improve the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids by trimming and resurfacing excess skin, removing excess fat, and repositioning the surrounding facial tissue. It can also be performed when sagging or drooping eyelid skin is affecting a patient’s vision.
Candidate Evaluation
Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty at Dr. Cangello's practice are men and women in good health who do not smoke and are unhappy with the changes in their eyelid area due to age, genetics, or environmental factors. However, patients with medical problems that affect the eyes, such as hypothyroidism, dry eyes, glaucoma, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, may need approval from an ophthalmologist before the surgery. The patient's medical history is thoroughly reviewed during the consultation to determine candidacy.
Surgical Approach
For upper eyelid blepharoplasty, the incision follows the natural skin crease in the eyelid, making the resultant scar virtually undetectable. For lower eyelid surgery, the incision is made inside the eyelid or just below the lower eyelash margin. A typical blepharoplasty procedure takes about forty - five to ninety minutes, depending on whether one or both sets of eyelids are being operated on.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the surgery, patients may experience tightness, achiness, dryness, or itching in the eyelids. Pain medication is prescribed to alleviate discomfort. Bruising and swelling are common and can be reduced with cold compresses and keeping the head elevated. External sutures are removed within one week, and most patients can go out in public within ten days and resume regular activities three weeks after the surgery.
5. Dr. Shridharani's Practice
Specialized Eyelid Surgery Services
Dr. Shridharani offers specialized eyelid surgery services in New York City. A blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both. It can improve loose or sagging skin that creates folds or impairs vision, as well as excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness, bags under the eyes, and excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid. The surgery provides a more youthful, rested, and alert appearance and can re - establish self - confidence and restore impaired vision by reducing eyelid hooding.
Surgical Techniques and Anesthesia Options
The surgery generally takes around 2 hours. Select individuals may be candidates for upper eyelid blepharoplasty with local (awake) anesthesia only, and Dr. Shridharani thoroughly discusses anesthesia options during the consultation. Through a traditional lower eyelid incision, excess skin can be removed, or a laser can be applied to the skin to tighten and resurface, resulting in a natural result and no external scar.
Recovery and Long - Term Results
After the surgery, initial healing may involve swelling, bruising, irritation, or dry eyes, which can be managed with medication, cold compresses, and ointment. Bruising generally lasts about 7 - 10 days, and swelling subsides at around 2 weeks but can last up to 1 year. Most individuals can go back to work approximately 1 week after surgery, and strength training and intense exercise can commence at 4 - 6 weeks post - procedure. While the surgery can correct certain conditions permanently, patients need to continue natural aging, and sun protection can help maintain the results.
Comparative Analysis of the Top 5 Hospitals
| Hospital/Surgeon | Specialty Focus | Surgical Techniques | Recovery Time | Cost Range | Unique Selling Proposition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Sinai Hospital | Comprehensive eyelid surgery with functional vision improvement and aesthetic enhancement | Camouflaged incisions in natural eyelid creases and lower eyelid options | Weeks for swelling and bruising to subside | Insurance - eligible in some cases, overall cost depends on multiple factors | Collaboration with vision specialists and ability to offer combined procedures |
| Dr. William Lao | Upper eyelid surgery, especially for creating double eyelids in Asian patients | Precision surgery to achieve natural results | About one week off work, strenuous activity avoided for two weeks | $3,000 - $10,000+ | Double - board - certified, expertise in Asian eyelid surgery |
| Dr. Philipp Franck | Advanced blepharoplasty with customized techniques | Careful marking, strategic incision placement, fine sutures | Resume light activities in a week or two, full healing in a few months | Not specified, personalized quote in consultation | Ivy League training, patient - centered care, top - doctor recognition |
| Dr. David Cangello | Comprehensive eyelid surgery with consideration of medical history | Incisions in natural creases for upper and strategic locations for lower eyelids | Go out in public in ten days, resume regular activities in three weeks | Not specified, personalized quote in consultation | Board - certified, artistic approach, thorough patient assessment |
| Dr. Shridharani | Specialized upper and lower eyelid surgery with multiple techniques | Traditional incision or laser resurfacing for lower eyelids | Go back to work in about one week, strength training at 4 - 6 weeks | Not specified, personalized quote in consultation | Choice of anesthesia, emphasis on natural results |
Important Considerations When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon's Expertise
The expertise of the surgeon is crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in upper eyelid surgery. Their training, the number of procedures they have performed, and their track record of successful outcomes are all important factors to consider. For example, surgeons like Dr. William Lao, Dr. Philipp Franck, and Dr. David Cangello have received advanced training and have a proven record in the field.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at a particular hospital or with a specific surgeon. Positive reviews can indicate good patient - doctor communication, satisfactory results, and a supportive medical team. On the other hand, negative reviews can highlight potential issues such as long wait times, poor after - care, or sub - par results.
Cost and Insurance
Cost is an important consideration. While the average cost ranges have been mentioned for some of the practices, it's important to get a personalized cost estimate during the consultation. Also, check if the procedure is covered by insurance, especially if it is being performed for functional reasons such as vision improvement. Some hospitals, like Mount Sinai, may assist patients in getting insurance approval.
Comprehensive Care and After - care
Choose a hospital that offers comprehensive care from the initial consultation to the post - operative follow - up. This includes pre - operative instructions, proper anesthesia management during the surgery, and detailed after - care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Surgeons like Dr. Mansher Singh provide his patients with personal contact information during the recovery period, showing a high level of commitment to patient care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best hospitals and surgeons for correcting upper eyelid skin sagging. Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. William Lao's practice, Dr. Philipp Franck's practice, Dr. David Cangello's practice, and Dr. Shridharani's practice each offer unique services, expertise, and approaches to upper eyelid surgery. Whether you are looking for functional vision improvement, aesthetic enhancement, or a combination of both, these facilities can provide the necessary care. However, it's important to do thorough research, consult with multiple surgeons, and consider your individual needs and preferences before making a decision.
If you are considering upper eyelid surgery, take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of these top - rated hospitals or surgeons. Share your concerns, goals, and expectations, and let them guide you towards achieving a more youthful and refreshed appearance. You can also explore more about the topic by seeking additional information from medical journals or reliable online resources.
