What kind of anesthesia is used?

Blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia. However, a board-certified anesthesiologist can provide general anesthesia with sedation if desired by the patient. Dr. Breitbart can perform blepharoplasty in his surgical center, which is certified by the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF).

When can I go back to work?

Sutures are usually removed within four to seven days after surgery. Most patients are generally back to work within one week after surgery.

Eyelid Surgery Long Island - Blepharoplasty Manhattan

The eyes play a central role in facial expression and can reflect energy, alertness, and overall vitality. Over time, aging and hereditary factors can lead to drooping upper eyelids, puffiness, and under-eye bags that create a tired or aged appearance. These changes often develop gradually as skin loses elasticity and fat shifts within the eyelid area.

Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience performing facial rejuvenation procedures for patients in Long Island and Manhattan, NY. His training at NYU Medical Center and Memorial Sloan-Kettering, along with recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, reflects a strong foundation in both surgical precision and aesthetic planning. His approach to eyelid surgery focuses on natural-looking results that restore balance and harmony to the eye area.

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What is Eyelid Surgery?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess skin, tissue, and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. This helps reduce puffiness, eliminate under-eye bags, and improve the appearance of sagging eyelids that may make the eyes look tired.

The procedure is designed to create a refreshed and more alert appearance while maintaining natural facial expression. Depending on the patient’s needs, surgery may be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

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The Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery can improve both appearance and, in some cases, function when excess skin interferes with vision.

Common benefits include:

Reduction of drooping upper eyelid skin
Improvement in under-eye bags and puffiness
Smoother contour around the eyes
A more rested and alert appearance
Long-lasting, natural-looking results

Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is ideal for patients who want to refresh the appearance of their eyes. It is especially suited for those who have:

Loose or sagging skin on the upper eyelids that droops over the natural fold
Excess skin, fine lines, or wrinkles around the lower eyelids
Puffiness or under-eye bags caused by protruding fat
Changes due to aging or hereditary factors

Blepharoplasty removes excess skin, reduces under-eye bags, and smooths wrinkles, creating a naturally refreshed and well-rested look. The procedure opens up the eyes while maintaining harmony with the surrounding facial features.

Eyelid Surgery Procedure

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, using either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs. The surgery can target the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.

Upper eyelids: Incisions are made within the natural crease of the eyelid, which helps conceal scars.
Lower eyelids: Incisions are placed along the lash line or inside the eyelid, leaving scars that are typically very subtle and difficult to see.

Many of Dr. Breitbart’s patients choose to combine eyelid surgery with other procedures, such as a facelift or brow lift, for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Incisions usually heal well, and most scars become nearly imperceptible over time.

Recovery from Eyelid Surgery

Recovery after eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is typically straightforward, and most patients resume normal activities within a week. Here’s what to expect:

First few days: Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and promote comfort.
Sutures: Usually removed within 4–7 days after surgery.
Swelling and bruising: Most swelling and bruising fade within 1–2 weeks. Makeup or cosmetics can be used to camouflage any remaining bruising.
Ongoing healing: Incision lines continue to improve, and residual swelling gradually diminishes over several weeks.

Dr. Breitbart provides personalized post-operative guidance to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results, helping each patient achieve a naturally refreshed and youthful appearance.

Eyelid Surgery FAQs

Blepharoplasty is eyelid surgery that is commonly used to remove excess skin and puffiness of the upper and lower eyelids in order to create a youthful and refreshing appearance to the eye area.

Why Choose Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart for Eyelid Surgery?

Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, brings more than 30 years of experience in cosmetic plastic surgery, with extensive expertise in facial procedures such as eyelid surgery. He is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery and completed advanced training at NYU Medical Center and Memorial Sloan-Kettering. His in-office surgical facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, providing a controlled and safety-focused environment for surgical care. Dr. Breitbart has been recognized by Castle Connolly as a top plastic surgeon in the New York metropolitan area and has been featured in national publications and media outlets. His approach emphasizes individualized treatment planning, precise technique, and results that maintain natural facial expression and balance.

Eyelid Surgery Consultation Long Island, NY

Eyelid surgery can restore a more refreshed and alert appearance by addressing excess skin and puffiness around the eyes. A detailed evaluation helps determine the most appropriate approach based on anatomy, skin condition, and aesthetic goals. Patients can explore treatment options designed to achieve natural-looking results with a focus on long-term balance. To learn more about eyelid surgery with Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, in Long Island and Manhattan, NY, schedule a consultation, call (516) 365-3511 today.