Blepharoplasty

Eyelid Surgery in North Shore Chicago | NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is an advanced cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes. At NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery, our esteemed team, which includes both a facial plastic surgeon and a maxillofacial surgeon, offers unparalleled expertise in both upper and lower eyelid surgery. Our state-of-the-art procedures can address concerns ranging from droopy eyelids that impair vision to puffy bags that contribute to a tired look.

If you are ready to meet with us for your friendly and informative consultation, we invite you to contact us online today to learn more. We are located in Deerfield, IL, and proudly serve patients from Chicago, Highland Park, Northbrook, Gurnee, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Winnetka, Glencoe, Wilmette, Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, and Arlington Heights.

46-year-old Caucasian female 3 months after upper blepharoplasty, lower eyelid skin pinch, and full face CO2 laser resurfacing.

What is a Blepharoplasty?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to revitalize the eye area. It involves the removal or repositioning of skin, muscle, and sometimes fat to correct both functional and aesthetic issues around the eyes. There are two primary types of blepharoplasty: upper and lower eyelid surgery.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is specifically designed to address the upper eyelid region. Over time, excess skin can develop on the upper eyelids due to aging, genetics, or other factors. This can lead to a hooded appearance and even obstruct one’s vision. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty aims to rectify this by removing the redundant skin.

Our surgeons perform this procedure by making a discreet incision along the natural crease of the eyelid, which helps to conceal any post-surgical marks. Through this incision, they carefully remove the precise amount of skin and fat needed and, if necessary, perform a minimal muscle resection. The result is an upper eyelid that is smooth and naturally contoured, leading to an overall appearance that is refreshed and youthful.

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty targets the area beneath the eye, where puffiness and ‘bags’ often develop. These issues are commonly the result of herniated fat pads under the eyes and skin laxity. The surgery for the lower eyelid focuses on reducing these bags, smoothing wrinkles, and restoring a firmer, more youthful eye contour.

The incision for a lower eyelid blepharoplasty is strategically made inside the eyelid (a transconjunctival approach) or in some cases, just below the lash line (subciliary approach). These methods of incision placement ensure that scarring is virtually undetectable after healing. By removing or repositioning excess fat and skin, and tightening the underlying muscle, our surgeons can significantly improve the appearance of under-eye bags and wrinkles.

Both upper and lower eyelid surgery can be performed for cosmetic reasons to make the eyes appear more open and awake, or to improve vision that is obstructed by drooping eyelids. Our approach at NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery is to ensure that each blepharoplasty procedure is customized to the individual needs and goals of our patients, providing results that enhance your natural beauty and restore a more youthful, rested look.

What Issues Can Blepharoplasty Address?

  • Upper Eyelid Concerns: Corrects drooping upper eyelids that can impair vision and refreshes the appearance of the eye.
  • Under Eye Bags: Removes or repositions fat to reduce puffiness and shadows under the eyes.
  • Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Smooths out creases and rejuvenates the skin around the eyes.
  • Eye Contour: Reshapes the natural contour of the eyelid for a more pleasing appearance.
  • Asymmetry: Aims to achieve a more symmetrical look for those with uneven eyelids.

Your Blepharoplasty Consultation in Deerfield, IL

During your consultation, our surgeons will evaluate your specific needs and discuss the vision for your eyelid surgery. We will use advanced imaging technology to preview potential outcomes and develop a personalized surgical plan.

What are the Types of Blepharoplasty Procedures Offered?

We provide customized solutions depending on your needs:

Upper Blepharoplasty

Involves removing or repositioning fat, tightening muscles, and removing excess skin of the upper eyelid

In this approach, the incision is made inside the lower eyelid, along the inner lining (conjunctiva). This technique is ideal for addressing fat deposits and puffiness without external scarring.

This approach involves making a small incision just below the lower eyelash line, which allows for access to both skin and underlying tissues. This technique is suitable for addressing excess skin and fat.

The AGNES device uses radiofrequency energy to precisely deliver heat to the targeted areas. By doing so, it stimulates collagen production and tightens the skin, resulting in a firmer and more lifted appearance. Additionally, the procedure can also target and eliminate fat pads, which are responsible for under-eye bags and puffiness.

Schedule A Consultation

NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery, located in Chicago’s North Shore with offices in Gurnee and Deerfield, specializes in Facelift, Eyelid Surgery, Chin Augmentation, Facial Implants, Injectable Fillers, Orthognathic Surgery, and a variety of other facial and neck treatments. Our patient-centered approach ensures that each treatment plan is personally customized to meet your unique needs, with care provided by board-certified, highly-trained physicians, Dr. Walter Tatch and Dr. Kurren Gill. Discover the difference of tailored aesthetics designed just for you.

Why Choose NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery for Eyelid Surgery?

Deciding to enhance your appearance with eyelid surgery is a significant choice, and selecting the right team to entrust with your vision is crucial. NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery stands out for its distinguished combination of professional expertise, advanced technology, and dedication to personalized patient care:

  • Comprehensive Dual-Surgeon Approach: Our respected team includes a facial plastic surgeon and a maxillofacial surgeon, providing a holistic approach to your eyelid surgery. Their joint expertise offers a blend of aesthetic artistry and surgical precision, targeting superior outcomes.
  • State-of-the-Art Imaging Techniques: Precision in eyelid surgery begins with a detailed understanding of your unique eye structure. We employ the latest imaging technologies for an accurate assessment, which is vital for envisioning and discussing expected outcomes.
  • Customized Surgical Planning: Recognizing the unique nature of each individual’s anatomy, we avoid one-size-fits-all solutions. Our surgical plans are meticulously tailored to align with your personal aesthetic goals, facial harmony, and specific anatomical features.
  • In-Depth Consultation Experience: We value an extensive consultation to fully grasp your objectives and alleviate any concerns. Our time is spent in-depth to cover procedural intricacies, discuss and consider your options, and set realistic expectations.
  • Facilities Equipped for Excellence: Our surgeries take place in a setting outfitted with the most modern and practical medical technology. Your comfort and safety are paramount, which is why we feature the most refined and effective surgical techniques available today.

What to Expect During Your Gurnee, IL Eyelid Surgery

Embarking on your eyelid surgery journey with NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery is a process that involves meticulous attention to detail and personalized care at every step. Your comfort, safety, and the aesthetic outcome of your eyelid surgery are our top priorities.

Arrival and Comfort

As you step into our clinic, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff who will ensure that you’re fully comfortable and well-informed as you get ready for your procedure. Any last-minute questions you have will be addressed to ease your mind.

To ensure a pain-free experience, we will administer the appropriate anesthesia. Our medical team will closely monitor your comfort and well-being throughout the entire surgery.

Our surgeons will perform the eyelid surgery using precise and refined techniques. For upper eyelid surgery, this involves creating a fine incision in the natural crease of the eyelid. In lower eyelid surgery, the incision will typically be made just below the lash line or inside the eyelid. Our surgeons skillfully adjust the tissue and remove any excess skin, fat, or muscle to achieve the desired eyelid contour.

Once the surgical enhancement is complete, we will meticulously close the incisions to promote the best healing with minimal scarring. These incisions are usually placed so that they are virtually invisible once fully healed.

After your surgery, you will be taken to our comfortable recovery suite where our nursing staff will take great care to ensure a safe and pleasant start to your recovery journey, monitoring you as you gently awake from anesthesia.

Your Eyelid Lift Recovery Process at NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery

The journey to recovery following eyelid surgery at NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery is carefully mapped out and fully supported to ensure your comfort and the best possible plastic surgery results:

  • Post-Procedure Care: Immediately after your surgery, you will be taken to our recovery area where our attentive nursing staff will monitor your recovery. Experiencing some degree of swelling and a feeling of tightness around the eyes is expected during this stage.
  • Early Recovery Instructions: To minimize swelling, you are advised to keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses as recommended. We will provide pain management solutions tailored to your needs, and regular follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor your healing progress and provide guidance on caring for your eyes.
  • Activity and Healing: Strenuous activities should be avoided for the recommended period post-surgery, typically a few weeks. Most patients find they can resume normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Swelling and any sensations of discomfort usually diminish significantly in the first two weeks post-surgery, as the refined look of your eyelids begins to emerge.
  • Follow-Up and Support: Detailed aftercare instructions will be provided, which are essential for your smooth and effective recovery. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring you have a comfortable and straight forward healing experience.

By choosing NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery for your eyelid surgery, you entrust your care to professionals dedicated to excellence throughout the entire surgical and recovery process.

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Look Your Best. Feel Your Best.

Before & Afters

Your Chicago Blepharoplasty Journey Starts at NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery

If you’re ready to rejuvenate your eyes, contact us online for a personalized consultation. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the process of eyelid surgery. Join the many satisfied patients from Chicago, Highland Park, Northbrook, Gurnee, Lake Forest, and beyond who have chosen NorthShore MedSpa Aesthetics & Star Facial Plastic Surgery for their cosmetic needs.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how we can enhance your appearance and lifestyle. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together. We are located in Deerfield, IL, and proudly serve patients from Chicago, Highland Park, Northbrook, Gurnee, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Winnetka, Glencoe, Wilmette, Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, and Arlington Heights.

Deerfield, IL Eyelid Surgery – FAQs

Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?

Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are individuals who are in good health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations for the outcome. Candidates may have droopy or baggy eyelids and may also seek the procedure for functional reasons if their eyelids hinder their vision.

Preparation for eyelid surgery includes getting a medical evaluation, stopping certain medications that can increase bleeding, quitting smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you the first night following surgery.

While you will notice changes to your eyelids shortly after surgery, it may take up to several months for the final results of the eyelid surgery to fully develop. Swelling and bruising will subside, and incision lines will fade over time.

Eyelid surgery can correct excessive skin (dermatochalasis), hooding of the eyelids, pseudogenization of the fat pads, and a hallowed appearance from over-sculpting. The results of eyelid surgery are long-lasting. Of course, aging over time can cause further signs and weakness of the eyelids.

As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, inability to close your eyes, dry eyes, abnormal eyelid position, double vision, and potential need for revision surgery.

Yes, eyelid surgery can be performed in conjunction with other facial procedures such as brow lift, facelift, or skin resurfacing treatments, which can enhance the overall rejuvenation effect.

The cost of eyelid surgery varies depending on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, whether you’re having upper or lower eyelid surgery or both, surgeon’s fees, facility costs, and geographical location. A detailed quote will be provided during your consultation, and we can also discuss payment and financing options at that time. Please note that if the surgery is performed for purely cosmetic reasons, it is generally not covered by insurance, whereas procedures deemed medically necessary might be partially or fully covered.

PATIENT instructions following browlift or blepharoplasty:

  • Sleep on your back or side with your head on two to three pillows.
  • Pain should be mild to moderate and resolve over 3-4 days. Use the pain medication given and slowly wean off of it as your pain lightens.
  • If you had a brow lift, you might have a compression dressing for 48 hours after surgery. After 48 hours, all dressing around your head can be removed, and you can start to put bacitracin on your scalp incisions. The sutures/staples will be removed at your 1 week postoperative appointment.
  • Use cold compresses (crushed ice in a glove or bag of frozen peas/corn) over your eyes for 20-30 minutes per hour for the first 48 hours. This will minimize the swelling and bruising.
  • Do not take aspirin or aspirin-containing pain medications. TYLENOL, DARVOCET N- 100, or other mild pain relievers prescribed are safe if needed.
  • Your eyes may become fatigued after prolonged reading or watching television. We recommend that you limit periods of use to one hour or less for the first 2-3 days after surgery.
  • Apply the ointment provided to the incision twice a day. Use sparingly, placing only a tiny amount on the incision lines. As the ointment warms up to body temperature, it will thin. Only use the Ophthalmic ointment that has been given to you. If you have crusting, you may need to use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on a cotton tip applicator and gently remove the crusting. If you have been prescribed eye drops, use them as directed to keep your eyes moist. It is normal to have a small gap between the upper and lower eyelids after surgery for a short time.
  • Do not use contact lenses for at least two weeks. Pulling on the eyelids while inserting or removing lenses may interfere with precise incision healing. Glasses may be used at any time.
  • Do not use mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow until we approve it (usually 10-14 days). Minimal makeup applied to any bruising of the lower lid is acceptable at any time, but do not pull on the lids or incisions.
  • Any apparent redness of the eyeball whites is only a form of bruising and will subside during the early healing process.

Eyelid surgery recovery may take 7 – 14 days. There are precautions that the eyelid patient should consider:

Do not engage in vigorous exercise or sports for at least 2-3 weeks or until your doctor approves.

You may bathe or shower the day after surgery but do not get your eyes wet.

If you experience oozing or bleeding along the suture line, do not rub the area. Apply gentle pressure and blot the eye with a sterile gauze, holding slight pressure in this area. Remove the compress and then apply ice. This will usually stop any leakage, but if it is excessive, please notify the doctor.

Stitches are removed at different times after surgery, depending upon the extent of surgery carried out, the type of stitches, and the type and quality of your skin. We will advise you accordingly.

It is common to feel slight itching and tightness of the eyelids during the early healing period.

If your temperature after the operation or before each dose of pain medicine is above 101.5, notify the ENT doctor or nurse.

Reasons to go to the Emergency room:

  • Sharp or dull pain that persists around the eyes
  • Sudden swelling around the eyes
  • Decrease of vision
  • Swelling or increased warmth of the forehead

Relative contraindications to blepharoplasty include actinic changes, acne rosacea, keloids, herpes zoster, thyroid abnormalities, autoimmune problems, smoking, and a history of dry eyes. Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill can work with your eye doctor to overcome some of these limitations.

Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill work with patients to decide the best treatment plan to rejuvenate the eyes and forehead. Discussion about the forehead’s position, incision placement, and adjunctive treatment, including chemical peels and laser resurfacing, is welcomed during the consultation.

Our goal is to improve eyelid position after a blepharoplasty. Factors affecting post-blepharoplasty eyelid malposition include hypotonicity, malar hypoplasia, shallow orbits, thyroid ophthalmopathy, unilateral myopia, previous eyelid surgery, and actinic changes of the eyelid have to be considered.

The uniqueness of the eyelid crease is discussed during our consultation with Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill. If a skin crease is missing due to lack of the dermal attachment of the levator aponeurosis or fullness due to fat herniation, then creating the supratarsal crease and debulking the eyelid fullness is addressed to allow for a sharpened upper eyelid crease.

If a patient presents with blepharoptosis due to congenital, myogenic, or aponeurotic ptosis with a levator function of 4 mm or more, then a repair of the levator muscle to the tarsus can be performed.

Eyelid Lift Surgery requires an incision in the upper eyelid along a natural crease. Upper eyelid incisions are made 8 – 10 mm above the lid margin. Ethnic eyelid creases are often 6 mm from the lid margin.

The lower eyelid incisions can be made through the skin, which is also called a transcutaneous skin-only flap, transcutaneous skin muscle flap, or transconjunctival approach. The transcutaneous incision can be pinch excised or made 3 – 4 mm below the lash line. Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill prefer the transconjunctival approach because it does not leave a visible scar. There is also less risk of ectropion or everting of the lower eyelid. It’s ideal for most patients with smooth skin and moderate fat pseudoherniation. The incision is made through the conjunctiva, and the orbital fat is removed.

Eye and forehead lifting is performed by cutting across the skin above the brow, resulting in a long scar within the brow hairline, along a forehead furrow, or behind the hairline to camouflage the scar. Another effective method requires an incision site and a scar across the scalp from ear to ear. Such incisions can still be useful in some situations, but we can offer many patients an endo-brow lift, which is far less invasive than eyebrow and forehead lift. With this procedure, Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill will use a small camera and specialized instruments to make tiny incisions behind the hairline to lift the brow carefully.

For most patients, recovery time is brief, and bruising is minimal.

Other procedures may be performed with an endo-brow lift, including laser resurfacing for facial wrinkles and skin tightening, eyelid lift, facelift, facial fat transfer, and rhinoplasty.

The conventional technique utilizes skin removal using a scalpel. The laser technique employs the CO2 laser to remove the skin.

Laser resurfacing using Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill’s advanced skin resurfacing technology offers numerous advantages over conventional techniques, including:

  • Exact control and advanced capabilities
  • Lower risk of unpleasant recovery issues
  • Typical recovery time after only 4-7 days
  • Convenient facilities in our outpatient surgery center
  • Integration of multiple procedures as part of a personalized facial surgery plan

 

Your doctor will tailor his approach to give you the most extraordinary results.

Possible risks of laser surgery include crusting, pain, swelling, redness, bruising, scarring, blistering, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, mottling of skin vascularity or purpura, and unforeseen complications. Eye injury is possible but unlikely. Eye protection measures will be used appropriately throughout laser treatment sessions.

Pain is minimal with the laser. Postoperative skin care is essential to good healing.

Most patients have minimal pain in the recovery period. Antibiotic eye drops, or cream is prescribed. Swelling is common during the first week.

Eyelid surgery takes 1-2 hours to perform. More involved transposition or fat mobilization techniques take longer.

Eyelid surgery begins with a preoperative assessment of the eyelid crease. Pseudoherniation of the fat is identified. The operation can be performed under sedation or awake. After surgery, the patient recovers in the office for 30 minutes and then is allowed to go home. The entire process takes 1 – 4 hours, depending on the surgical procedure performed.

A driver is recommended after eyelid surgery.

It takes 1-2 weeks to look normal after eyelid surgery.

Swelling and bruising can occur. Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill recommend taking arnica and bromelin preoperatively to help with swelling and bruising.

Eyelid surgery can affect dry eyes. Conservative treatment of the eyelid skin is recommended. The dry eye feeling can take 2 – 5 months to improve. Lacrimal plugs may be considered in patients with dry eyes.

Blepharoplasty aims to improve vision and the youthful appearance of the eyelids.

Cosmetic eyelid surgery is very successful for patients seeing experienced surgeons. As facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill have performed hundreds of eyelid surgeries and brow lifts. He is a top eyelid surgeon, as rated by Realself.com.

Eyelid surgery, in combination with neurotoxins like Botox or Dysport, can improve crow’s feet wrinkles. Other treatments performed in combination, like brow lifts, can elevate droopy eyebrows. Dark circles are often caused by thin skin and hypertrophic orbicularis muscles. Fat transposition and mobilization can improve the dark circles of the lower eyelids.

Fat transposition and mobilization is the latest innovation for improving the dark circles of the lower eyelids. Filling the tear trough area with natural orbital fat is successful in rejuvenating lower eyelids.

Patients seeking eyelid surgery often have visible signs of aging before needing a facelift. The orbicularis determines much of these aging effects as the primary eyelid closure muscle. If the retaining ligament sags, then tear troughs develop. Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill will address the tear troughs with eyelid fillers like Restylane. Patients wanting a more permanent correction can benefit from repositioning the orbital fat into the hollow areas of the cheek. Fat mobilization of the lower eyelids can also be done to treat deep tear troughs or prominent nasojugular grooves.

Patients must wait 6 – 12 months for eyelid surgery after a PRK or LASIK procedure.

There is no age limit to undergo eyelid surgery.

Eyelid surgery may be necessary when ectropion or entropion malposition of the eyelid occurs. Eyelid retraction and canthal tendon laxity can cause these problems. In addition, peripheral field testing for patients with visual field problems is necessary to determine if a medically essential problem exists.

Scars are hidden in the eyelid crease and the conjunctiva in most patients seeking eyelid surgery with Dr. Tatch and Dr Gill.

Eyelid surgery is a relatively safe procedure with minimal complications.

Complications are rare with eyelid surgery but can include hematoma from vessel retraction after eyelid surgery. Hematomas should be treated urgently. Other complications include lagophthalmos due to over-resection of eyelid skin. Treatment with massage can improve lagophthalmos or a skin graft.

Other side effects include eyelid skin webbing, conjunctivitis, chemosis, a hallowed appearance, double vision, infections, suture granuloma, excessive tearing, lateral canthal rounding, and eyelid malposition.

Patients can return to work after removing sutures, and eyelid swelling has improved to allow good vision after eyelid surgery.

Do not engage in vigorous exercise or sports for at least 2-3 weeks or until your doctor approves.

Normal activities can return once your doctor approves them.

You may bathe or shower the day after surgery but do not get your eyes wet.

Do not use contact lenses for at least two weeks. Pulling on the eyelids while inserting or removing lenses may interfere with precise incision healing. Glasses may be used at any time.

A single procedure may fail to remove all my excess skin hooding or textural problems in the treated area. Individual responses will vary according to skin type, hair color, degree of tanning, follow-up care, and treated body area. Touch-ups may be necessary due to the effects of aging. A combination of brow and eyelid lifting and skin treatments with chemical peels and laser resurfacing may be required.

There are no dietary restrictions before or after surgery. A healthy, well-balanced diet is recommended.

Antibiotic drops or ointment may be prescribed. Apply the ointment provided to the incision twice a day. Use sparingly, placing only a tiny amount on the incision lines. As the ointment warms up to body temperature, it will thin. Only use the Ophthalmic ointment that has been given to you. If you have crusting, you may need to use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on a cotton tip applicator and gently remove the crusting. If you have been prescribed eye drops, use them as directed to keep your eyes moist. It is normal to have a small gap