Eyelid Lift St. Louis
Eyelids, or palpebra inferior and palpebra superior, are thin folds of skin that protect the eye from debris, water, or other external forces. With few exceptions, the upper and lower lids are the thinnest areas of skin on the body. As such, they are very delicate structures and, over time, can lose elasticity or swell with fatty deposits. There are a number of factors that can contribute to wrinkled, drooping, or puffy eyelids. In extreme cases, patients may suffer from vision impairment due to decreased functionality.
Whether due to aesthetic or medical concerns, patients can find a solution with blepharoplasty or an eyelid lift. The procedure not only improves visibility but can also rejuvenate the areas surrounding the eye.
The procedure can address aesthetic concerns such as
- Excess skin that obscures the natural fold of the upper eyelid, often referred to as “hooded”
- Persistent puffy appearance around the upper eyelids, resulting in a constant “tired” look
- Excess skin and fine lines around the lower lid
- Persistent “bags” or dark pigmentation around the under-eye area
- Lower lid “droopiness” or slight ptosis, exposing excess white of the eyeball below the iris
What Does a Blepharoplasty Entail?
Blepharoplasty is commonly referred to as an eyelid lift. The procedure can be performed on either the upper or lower regions. Some patients choose to target both. General anesthesia is administered prior to surgery to ensure the patient’s total comfort. All incisions are made in natural folds or creases around the eye so that, after proper healing, any scars will be well disguised and virtually invisible at a conversational distance.
For the upper lid procedure, a small incision is made within the natural crease (where the eyeball meets the socket, just below the brow). From here, Paul Rottler, MD, FACS, will remove excess skin. The procedure lasts between one and two hours and is completed in an outpatient surgery center.
Upper Eyelid Lift
Lower Eyelid Lift
How Much Will Blepharoplasty Cost?
Single procedures that address a single region (upper or lower), depending on the patient’s specific condition and aesthetic goals. This estimate is based on operating room time used and includes surgeon’s fees, as well as hospital and anesthesia costs.
- Upper (local anesthesia): $4,700
- Upper (general anesthesia): $5,900
- Lower: $6,500
- Quad: $10,000
What Can I Expect During Recovery?
Most patients can return to work within 7 to 10 days following surgery. Heavily visual activities, such as reading, can be resumed within 2 to 3 days, but it is best to avoid strenuous activity for 3 weeks. Swelling and bruising should subside within 2 to 3 weeks. Dr. Rottler advises that patients have a friend or family member stay with them for the first couple of days following surgery. Moderate swelling and bruising are to be expected immediately following the procedure. The rate of recovery will depend on the individual patient’s health prior to surgery and their commitment to following Dr. Rottler’s post-op instructions.
Am I a Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
The ideal candidate for this procedure is otherwise healthy with no life-threatening illnesses or medical conditions that would interfere with the surgery or impede proper healing. As with any invasive procedure, it is advised that patients avoid smoking prior to surgery. Dr. Rottler can discuss a more definitive timeline for quitting during the initial consultation. Certain individuals concerned with the functionality of the eyelid may be candidates, but they cannot suffer from serious eye conditions. Patients should have an overall positive outlook with specific aesthetic goals outlined prior to the consultation. From these goals, Dr. Rottler can determine whether or not eyelid surgery is the optimal solution. The face is comprised of intricate, closely connected systems and, as such, the appearance of a drooping lid can be caused due to issues stemming from the forehead, eyebrow, or the levator (one of the muscles in the upper lid region). During your personal consultation, Dr. Rottler will assess your unique anatomy in order to determine underlying issues and create the ideal procedure plan.
Just trust him and let him do what he does best!
The office staff were amazing. I had so many questions both while in the office and while away from the office. They were so willing to take my phone calls and even answer emails so promptly. The ease of making appointments to work with my schedule was very much appreciated. The way Dr. Rottler suggested what would work best to give me the results I was looking for was worth a million bucks. Just trust him and let him do what he does best!
Are There Any Risks Involved With this Procedure?
As with any invasive procedure, there are some risks of complication. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Rottler significantly decreases your chance of any complications during or following surgery. General risks include:
- Anesthesia risks
- Standard swelling and hematoma (bruising)
- Infection
- Bleeding near the incision site
- Difficulty opening or closing eyes
- Ectropion or Entropion – a condition where the eyelid rolls outward or inward
- Excessive dryness
- Epiphora – excessive tearing
- Light sensitivity
- Temporary “lid lag” – pulling down of the lower eyelid
- Temporary or permanent change in vision
- Pain
- Changes in skin sensation
- Improper healing
- Unfavorable scarring
More severe complications may require a second revision surgery. Again, choosing a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon is the simplest way to significantly reduce your risk of complications. Dr. Rottler will examine your medical history extensively in an attempt to increase the chances of an ideal outcome. Additionally, it is crucial that patients follow Dr. Rottler’s instructions before and after surgery promote proper healing and recovery. Dr. Rottler will discuss these risks at length during your consultation to ensure that you are fully informed prior to surgery.
Preparing for Your Consultation
Before your consultation, gather pertinent information about your medical history, including:
- Previous surgeries
- Past and present medical conditions
- Any current medications, either prescription or over-the-counter
- Allergies that affect the eyes
- Whether you wear contacts
It is absolutely crucial that you be able to provide comprehensive medical information. Common disorders that may negatively affect the outcome of surgery include:
- Chronic “dry eye” as diagnosed by an ophthalmologist
- High blood pressure
- Thyroid problems
- Diabetes
Also, come to your consultation ready to discuss your specific concerns and outline your aesthetic goals. From this information, Dr. Rottler will be able to evaluate your candidacy for blepharoplasty and develop your personal procedure plan.
Why Choose Dr. Rottler?
In addition to his board certification, plastic surgeon Paul Rottler, MD, FACS belongs to:
- American Society of Plastic Surgery
- American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Inc.
- Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation
- American College of Surgeons
- American Association for Hand Surgery
- St. Louis Metropolitan Medical Society
- Missouri Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Association
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society
Dr. Rottler is also an active volunteer and team leader with organizations that offer surgery in other countries free of charge for patients who would otherwise live their lives with birth defects. These organizations include:
- Interplast, Inc.
- Operation Smile
- Haiti Medical Mission
Dr. Rottler has 23 years of experience in cosmetic surgery, specializing in procedures of the face, breast, and body, as well as reconstructive surgery. He has been Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons since 1993. Dr. Rottler believes that dedicating time to surgical societies and volunteer programs allows him to stay current with advanced technologies and techniques, ensuring that his patients receive the best possible treatment. His commitment to excellence has gained him recognition among patients and colleagues.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re interested in learning more about the eyelid lift procedure and how it can improve the aesthetic appearance of your eyes and rejuvenate the overall appearance of your face, schedule your personal consultation with Paul Rottler, MD, FACS. His professional staff in St. Louis will ensure that your experience is enjoyable, from beginning to end. To schedule your consultation, call 314-966-8880. To see the results of eyelid lifts surgery for yourself, click the link below.
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