Blepharoplasty
Restore Youthful Eyes
What is Blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a procedure used to correct sagging upper eyelids and puffy bags under the eyes by removing or repositioning excess skin, muscle, and fat. At Carniol Plastic Surgery, Dr. Paul Carniol and Dr. Eric Carniol specialize in both functional and cosmetic blepharoplasty. Our approach restores a refreshed, youthful appearance while preserving the delicate natural function of the eye. Whether addressing “hooded” eyes that impair vision or lower eyelid “bags,” we provide personalized surgical plans in our Summit, NJ office.
Upper Blepharoplasty in Summit: Combat Sagging Eyelids
Over time, the upper eyelids tend to droop, resulting in a tired or sad look. Additionally, eyelid “bags” can develop, further aging the eyes. Upper blepharoplasty can be performed in our office or in the operating room, especially when combined with other procedures.
Dr. Carniol is an expert on local anesthesia, so the procedure is very comfortable. The excess eyelid skin is carefully removed, and if necessary, excess fat is also contoured. The incision is then closed with stitches, which are typically removed within six days. After the procedure, most patients will take 1 or 2 Tylenol TOTAL. Many patients even feel confident enough to go out for coffee the day after surgery, sporting their “celebrity” sunglasses. The scar goes into the eyelid crease, making it nearly invisible. With this procedure, you can restore 5 to 15 years of youthfulness to your eyes, and the results are permanent.
Google Review from Janice Marsilli 5 Stars! (Upper blepharoplasty experience) I was awake for the procedure in his office. He and Shannon were wonderful at keeping me calm and informed regarding what I needed to do to ensure my recovery. I returned several times over the course of the next few weeks and they really stayed on top of my case. Everyone in the office was terrific and there is just such an upbeat atmosphere there. It’s clear that the staff and Dr. Carniol and his father, who is his partner in the practice, get along wonderfully. I always felt that I had a coordinated team behind me…[My ophthalmologist] upon examining my eye, she said that Dr. Carniol had done a wonderful job, that I had perfect closure of the eyelids…and that she was very impressed with his work. Dr. Carniol is a true artist. He didn’t just aim to make me look younger. He wanted me to look refreshed, but even more importantly, he wanted me to be able to see better…Dr. Carniol looked at me as a complete person and the results are three-fold. My vision is greatly improved, and I look younger and refreshed while still retaining my facial “personality.” I cannot recommend Dr. Eric Carniol and his staff highly enough!
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Lower Blepharoplasty: Addressing Eyelid Bags
As time passes, the lower eyelids may appear heavier due to sagging “eyelid bags,” which are caused by protruding fat pads. Lower blepharoplasty is performed in the operating room. An incision is made behind the eyelid, known as a transconjunctival incision, revealing the puffy fat pads. Depending on the patient’s unique anatomy, the fat pads can be removed or repositioned. In some cases, the fat can be redistributed to the tear trough area, improving its appearance. If necessary, excess crepey skin can be removed or lasered. This procedure can also be combined with other rejuvenation procedures for comprehensive results.
Ptosis Repair: Correcting “Lazy” Eyelids
If one or both of your upper eyelids appear “lazy” or “sleepy” due to weakness in the eyelid-opening muscle, ptosis repair can provide a solution. This condition can occur as a result of aging, contact lens or eye drop usage, or previous eye surgeries such as glaucoma or cataract procedures. Dr. Carniol performs ptosis repair in the operating room. Depending on the severity of ptosis, an incision is made either in the eyelid crease or behind the eyelid itself. Dr. Carniol performs ptosis repair with or without upper blepharoplasty to help open the eyes and restore a refreshed appearance.
Blepharoplasty FAQs
Yes, upper blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance if the excess upper eyelid skin is obstructing vision. Dr. Carniol often recommends patients undergo vision testing, including visual field testing, conducted by their ophthalmologist or optometrist to determine eligibility for insurance coverage.
In some cases, filler injections can improve the appearance of lower eyelid bags by adding volume to the surrounding area and creating a smoother look. However, excessive filler can result in an unnatural appearance, and regular touch-ups are required. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can also be used to rejuvenate the area around the eyes. Nevertheless, for a permanent improvement of the lower eyelids, lower blepharoplasty is the ideal solution.
Dr. Carniol and the office staff pride themselves on excellent care of patients throughout the surgical experience. All patients after blepharoplasty are seen the next day after surgery to help in the healing process. Patients are then seen several days later to remove any stitches that need to be removed, typically 4-6 days after surgery. Patients may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with Tylenol, Advil, or occasionally stronger pain medication if necessary. Driving is permitted once patients feel ready, and remote work can typically be resumed after 3 days. During the initial recovery period, it is recommended to sleep in a slightly elevated position to minimize bruising and swelling. Makeup can usually be used to cover any remaining bruising by day 10. Light exercise can be resumed after 2 weeks.
If you’re seeking a comprehensive solution for your eyelid concerns, look no further than Dr. Paul Carniol and Dr. Eric Carniol. They are both double board certified in facial plastic surgery and will be able to address all of your concerns. Regain youthful eyes and embrace a brighter, more vibrant appearance!
Dr. Carniol will examine not just the eyelids but also your entire face to ensure that we are promoting facial balancing and facial harmony. Many patients have heavy brows which give the illusion of extra eyelid skin. In those cases, a brow lift alone would be the best treatment. Many patients as well will have both heavy brows and excess eyelid skin. Those patients will benefit from browlift and blepharoplasty surgery.
How much does blepharoplasty cost in New Jersey? The cost depends on whether you are treating the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, brows, or some combination. If drooping upper eyelids impair your peripheral vision, insurance may cover a portion of the procedure as a “functional” necessity. We can help you get your visual field testing required for these claims.
Will I have visible scars after an eyelid lift? Scars are extremely well-hidden. For upper blepharoplasty, the scar is placed in the natural crease of the lid. For lower blepharoplasty, we often use a “transconjunctival” approach where the incision is hidden behind the lower lid, leaving no external scar.
When can I wear makeup after eyelid surgery? You should wait 10 days before putting makeup on your upper or lower eyelids. When removing makeup, be gentle! At 10 days, your scars are closed so there should not be an increased risk of infection or other concern.
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Day 1–2: Swelling and bruising reach their peak. Use cold saline compresses for 15 minutes every hour while awake.
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Day 5-6: Sutures are typically removed in our office. Vision may be slightly blurry due to the protective eye ointment.
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Day 10: Most patients feel comfortable returning to work or social activities. Bruising can often be concealed with light makeup.
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Week 2: You may resume wearing contact lenses and light exercise.
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Month 1: Most surgical swelling has resolved, and your eyes will look significantly more “open.”
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6 Months: Incision lines continue to fade until they are virtually invisible within the natural eyelid creases.
“I had eyelid surgery, my lids hung down to my pupils. I now have bright happy eyes with eyelashes which I haven’t seen in a year. Dr Carniol was great every step from the consultation to the surgery through follow ups. Can’t imagine a better experience or more perfect outcome.”
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Dr. Paul Carniol and Dr. Eric Carniol are double board-certified facial plastic surgeons, including from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Carniol is past president of the AAFPRS. They operate in Union County and Essex County, in Northern New Jersey.