Introduction
Double - eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance the appearance of the eyes, making them look more youthful, refreshed, and alert. In New York City, a hub of plastic surgery excellence, there are numerous well - reputed plastic departments offering this procedure. This article will explore the top 4 selected well - reputed plastic departments for double - eyelid surgery in New York City, including the surgeons, their techniques, and what makes each facility stand out.
What is Double - Eyelid Surgery?
Double - eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is designed to improve the appearance of drooping, sagging, or aging eyelids. During the procedure, excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are removed or repositioned from the upper and/or lower eyelids to create a more youthful and refreshed look. It can also address cosmetic and medical concerns, such as improving vision when drooping lids contribute to impaired vision. The goal of a well - performed double - eyelid surgery is to create a natural - looking result that enhances the patient's overall appearance.
Top 4 Plastic Departments for Double - Eyelid Surgery in New York City
1. Dr. Sam Rizk
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Sam Rizk is a top - rated double - board certified facial plastic surgeon in New York. He favors minimally invasive techniques and has a wealth of experience in eyelid surgery. He is well - known for delivering consistently pleasing results and is recognized in various media, such as being featured in Town & Country magazine as one of the masters of the subtle lift and tweak that will turn back time, and voted by peers to New York Magazine’s 2013 top doctors.
Technique
- For upper blepharoplasty, his technique is based on achieving natural results and avoiding the “hollow eye look.” He carefully removes some fat while also sculpting the remaining tissue with a laser and repositioning it to fill increases at the border of the eye and cheek region. His incisions in the upper eyelid curve upward to lift the corner hoods.
- In lower blepharoplasty, he favors fat pad reduction through the scarless transconjunctival approach and fat sculpting with a laser to achieve a natural contour.
Procedure Process
Dr. Rizk’s eyelid surgery procedure is usually performed in 45 minutes. It can be done under general anesthesia or a combination of sedation and local anesthesia. He carefully marks the skin to indicate where excess skin and fat pads will be removed. Then, he makes incisions along the natural folds of the eyelid to ensure they are unnoticeable once healed. Finally, tissue glue or sutures are applied to reshape and smooth the area around the eyelids.
Benefits and Results
- Minimal downtime, with most patients able to return to their usual activities within one week.
- Natural - looking results that help reduce signs of aging around the eyes and can improve vision in some cases.
- Reduced scarring due to his advanced surgical technique.
2. Dr. Philipp Franck
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Philipp Franck is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who completed his training at two prestigious Ivy League university hospitals. He is an expert in facial plastic surgery, including advanced blepharoplasty. 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. He is also on Castle Connolly’s list of top doctors nationwide.
Technique
- Upper blepharoplasty: Incisions are made within the natural creases of the upper eyelid to hide scars. The procedure addresses loose or sagging skin on the upper lids, lifts the eyelid to reveal more of the pupil, and addresses excess fat and puffiness around the eye.
- Lower blepharoplasty: Incisions may be placed either just below the lash line or inside the lower lid (transconjunctival approach). It targets under - eye bags, excess skin, and puffiness, helps smooth and minimize fine wrinkles under the eyes, and tightens the lower eyelid.
Procedure Process
Upper blepharoplasty is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation, while lower blepharoplasty is usually performed under anesthesia due to its complexity. First, Dr. Franck carefully marks the areas around the eyelids. Then, he makes the incisions according to the type of surgery. Next, he removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle. Finally, he uses very fine sutures to close the incisions, and the stitches are typically removed within a few days.
Benefits and Results
- Enhanced appearance with a brighter, more alert look that can make patients appear years younger.
- Improved vision by removing sagging skin that may obstruct sight.
- Long - lasting results, as the outcomes often last for many years.
3. Dr. William Lao
Surgeon Overview
Dr. William Lao is a double - board certified plastic surgeon who is widely recognized as one of the best upper eyelid surgery and Asian eyelid plastic surgeons in New York. He is a frequent guest on the aesthetic publication, New Beauty, where they rely on his expertise. He has performed numerous upper eyelid blepharoplasty procedures at his New York office and has provided surgery for patients from almost every continent in the world.
Technique
- There are two main techniques: incisional and non - incisional blepharoplasty. The non - incisional procedure is more appropriate for younger individuals who do not have much excess skin and fat, while incisional blepharoplasty is often required for older patients with excess skin.
- For Asian patients desiring a double fold, the surgery creates a natural - looking double eyelid while retaining the patient’s natural cultural characteristics and features.
Procedure Process
The first step is to book a consultation. During the appointment, Dr. Lao will fully examine the eyelids and forehead, provide expert recommendations, and answer all questions. If both the patient and Dr. Lao agree that upper blepharoplasty is the best procedure, surgery will be booked, and pre - and postoperative instructions will be provided. On the day of surgery, the appropriate technique is selected based on the patient's condition.
Benefits and Results
- Patients will look less tired and more rejuvenated.
- Many patients report improved vision.
- It can create a double eyelid for Asian patients, increasing self - confidence.
4. Dr. Barry Weintraub
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is Ivy League educated at the Weill - Cornell Medical Center. He is a national spokesperson for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has more than two decades of experience. In 2024, he was named one of America’s best plastic surgeons by Newsweek in the categories of facelift and eyelid surgery.
Technique
- For upper blepharoplasty, excess skin of the upper eyelids is carefully removed through an elliptical incision that lies just below the normal blink crease. An invisible subcuticular suture is used to mimic a hairline wrinkle in the blink crease, hiding the incision.
- In lower blepharoplasty, whenever possible, he removes the lower - eyelid fat pads or “bags” through the backside of the lower eyelid to avoid scarring. In more severe cases, redundant lower eyelid skin is directly excised and put back into position with camouflaged micro sutures.
Procedure Process
Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the procedure. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room with board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. He performs the surgery himself with precision and care, and all wounds are sewn in multiple layers by his own hand.
Benefits and Results
- The goal is to recreate the neat, clean, sleek, and unencumbered eyelids of youth, with a natural - looking result.
- Minimal swelling and bruising due to techniques used during surgery, such as allowing the vasoconstrictor solution to shrink all vessels in the area.
- The area around the eyes heals relatively quickly due to the good blood supply.
Choosing the Right Plastic Department for Double - Eyelid Surgery
Qualifications of the Surgeon
When choosing a plastic department for double - eyelid surgery, the qualifications of the surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for double - board certified surgeons with extensive experience in eyelid surgery. Check their educational background, training, and any awards or recognition they have received. Surgeons who are affiliated with well - known medical institutions or have teaching positions, such as those mentioned above, often have a high level of expertise.
Technique and Approach
Each surgeon has their own unique technique and approach to double - eyelid surgery. Some may focus on minimally invasive techniques, while others may have specific methods for achieving natural - looking results. Consider your personal preferences and goals for the surgery, and discuss with the surgeon how their technique can meet those needs. For example, if you are an Asian patient desiring a double eyelid, a surgeon with experience in Asian eyelid surgery, like Dr. William Lao, may be a better choice.
Patient Testimonials and Before - After Photos
Patient testimonials and before - after photos can provide valuable insights into the quality of the surgeon's work. Read reviews from previous patients to learn about their experiences, including the level of satisfaction, the recovery process, and the final results. Before - after photos can give you a visual representation of what to expect from the surgery. Most of the top plastic departments in New York City will have a portfolio of before - after photos available on their websites or in their offices.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of double - eyelid surgery can vary depending on the surgeon, the complexity of the procedure, and other factors such as anesthesia and facility fees. It's important to get a detailed cost estimate during your consultation. Some surgeries may be covered by insurance if they are deemed medically necessary, such as when drooping eyelids are causing vision problems. Discuss insurance coverage with the surgeon's office and your insurance provider to understand your financial obligations.
Preparing for Double - Eyelid Surgery
Consultation
The first step in preparing for double - eyelid surgery is to schedule a consultation with the chosen surgeon. During the consultation, you should discuss your concerns, goals, and medical history. The surgeon will evaluate your eyelids, including the amount of excess skin, fat, and muscle, and determine the most appropriate surgical approach for you. They will also explain the procedure in detail, including the risks, benefits, and recovery process.
Medical Clearance
Most surgeons will require you to obtain medical clearance from your family physician or other relevant specialists. This is to ensure that you are in good overall health and can safely undergo the surgery. If you have any pre - existing medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, dry eye, or other ophthalmological disorders, you may need additional evaluations or treatments before the surgery.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain lifestyle changes before surgery can help improve the outcome and reduce the risk of complications. If you smoke, it's advisable to quit smoking before and after surgery, as smoking can affect healing. You may also need to avoid certain medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin and herbal supplements, for a period of time before the surgery. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors.
Recovery After Double - Eyelid Surgery
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After double - eyelid surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild pain. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your eyes, including using cold compresses to reduce swelling, taking prescribed medications for pain and infection prevention, and keeping your head elevated. Most patients are able to return home the same day as the surgery.
Stitch Removal and Initial Recovery
Sutures are usually removed within 5 - 7 days after surgery. During this initial recovery period, you may notice that your eyes are still swollen and bruised, but the swelling should gradually subside. You should avoid strenuous activities, such as exercise and heavy lifting, for a few weeks to allow your body to heal. You may also need to avoid wearing eye makeup until the stitches are removed and your eyes have healed further.
Long - Term Recovery and Results
Full healing can take a few months, but you should start to see the final results of the surgery as the swelling diminishes. The results of double - eyelid surgery are typically long - lasting, but natural aging will continue. Following your surgeon's post - operative instructions, such as using sunscreen to protect your eyes from the sun, can help maintain the results of the surgery.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, double - eyelid surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. These can include:
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia: This can range from mild nausea and vomiting to more serious complications, although this is rare.
- Infection: Proper wound care and following post - operative instructions can help minimize the risk of infection.
- Dry, irritated eyes: This is a common side effect and can usually be managed with prescribed eye drops.
- Temporary inability to close your eyes fully: This typically resolves on its own as the swelling goes down.
- Noticeable scarring: However, most surgeons take great care to place incisions in natural creases or use techniques to minimize scarring.
- Injury to eye muscles: This is a rare but serious complication that can affect eye movement and vision.
- Skin discoloration: This may occur in some cases but usually fades over time.
- The need for a follow - up surgery: In some cases, a secondary procedure may be necessary to correct any issues or achieve the desired results.
- Temporarily blurred vision or rarely, loss of eyesight: This is an extremely rare complication.
It's important to discuss these risks with your surgeon during the consultation so that you can make an informed decision about the surgery.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several well - reputed plastic departments for double - eyelid surgery. Dr. Sam Rizk, Dr. Philipp Franck, Dr. William Lao, and Dr. Barry Weintraub are among the top surgeons, each with their own unique qualifications, techniques, and approaches. When considering double - eyelid surgery, it's crucial to do thorough research, choose a qualified surgeon, and have realistic expectations. By carefully preparing for the surgery and following the post - operative instructions, you can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and enjoy the benefits of a more youthful and refreshed appearance. If you're interested in double - eyelid surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these top surgeons to discuss your options further.
