Eyelid Revision Surgery

Patients can experience eyelid malposition for a range of reasons, including injury, genetics, and previous surgery. In cases when your previous surgeon did not generate results that were fully satisfactory (or even worsened the situation), Dr. Avila is proud to provide eyelid revision surgery in Miami to correct any shortcomings of a previous procedure. With attentive, compassionate care, Dr. Avila strives to ensure each patient receives a positive experience and results that radiate benefits to multiple aspects of their lives.

How Does Eyelid Revisional Surgery Work?

Eyelid revision surgery is typically performed by a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon (such as Dr. Avila) specializing in facial procedures. The procedure varies highly, however, as it is a specialized approach to correcting the changes made by a previous surgery. This can involve a combination of:

  • Removing excess skin
  • Repositioning eyelid structures or tissues
  • Addressing poor scarring
  • Placing grafts
  • And more

The focus is to undo the prior surgery’s shortcomings and to create new improvements in their place. While this may sound straightforward, it requires a high degree of precision and knowledge of the eyelid’s most minute structures in order to be completed successfully.

What Is Eyelid Malposition Surgery?

Eyelid malposition can occur naturally, but many patients come to use with this concern following a previous surgeon’s efforts to improve their appearance. In the lower eyelids, an ectropion or entropion can occur. Ectropion is when the eyelid turns out and the inner surface of the eyelid is seen, causing dryness, irritation, tearing, and more. Entropion is when the eyelid turns in, and the lashes can touch the eye and even scratch the cornea, causing pain, tearing, irritation, and even vision loss.

Eyelid malposition typically requires surgery to fix, but Dr. Sarah Avila prides herself on also offering non-surgical treatments to complex cases. In revision surgery for eyelid malposition, more extensive techniques may be required as well, adjusting for tissues that were damaged or repositioned from a previous procedure. Grafts may even be required. Thus, it requires a higher degree of experience and training than a regular eyelid procedure. The goal of this procedure is to restore balance and allow patients to see optimal results that they love.

What is Eyelid Retraction?

In addition, eyelid retraction can also occur where the lower lid is pulled down, increasing scleral show, or making the white of the eye more visible. Lower eyelid retraction can be dangerous as it often leads to incomplete eyelid closure, dryness, and vision-threatening complications. In the upper eyelids, common malpositions that can arise are ptosis or droopy eyelids, dermatochalasis (excess skin), and eyelid retraction (a lid position higher than normal). Other subtleties may also be noted by Dr. Sarah Avila.

Why Choose Eyelid Revision Surgery?

Eyelid revision surgery is an excellent option for patients who are dissatisfied with their eyelid position and appearance after a previous procedure and want to restore balance to the eyes and create a more youthful, refreshed appearance. This cosmetic surgery can also help improve vision by removing sagging skin that may be blocking the view, particularly if a previous ptosis repair surgery did not correct the condition. Eyelid revisional surgery also creates an authentic outcome with natural-looking results that look and feel natural, allowing you to enjoy the changes to your appearance at last.

Benefits

Eyelid revision requires a complex procedure and an effective line of communication between the patient and the provider. However, when done right and with an ideal surgeon by your side, you can expect to see results such as:
  • Restored balance to your facial features
  • Reduced appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin
  • Improved vision by removing excess skin that may be blocking view
  • Creation of a more youthful, refreshed appearance
  • Natural-looking results
  • Boosted confidence and quality of life

Am I a Candidate?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyes due to sagging skin, remaining wrinkles, eyelid malposition, or other features, you may be a candidate for eyelid revisional surgery. The best way to determine if this type of plastic surgery is right for you is to begin with a consultation with a highly experienced plastic surgeon in Miami. During the consultation, our doctor, Dr. Sarah Avila, will evaluate your medical history and take all the time needed to fully learn about your situation. One of the key reasons previous procedures do not deliver results is a miscommunication between the surgeon and the patient. By having an unrushed, compassionate approach to the consultation process, Dr. Avila can ensure she has the time required to evaluate the patient’s individual goals and hopes.

Additionally, ideal candidates will be in overall good health, be non-smoking before and after surgery, and be ready to openly communicate their expectations. Each of these factors is crucial for seeing outcomes that you will enjoy for years to come.

Procedure Overview

Eyelid revision surgery shares some common features with regular eyelid surgery, but the details of it will vary based on individual situations. However, it always begins with ensuring patient safety by administering either local anesthetic or full sedation, depending on the patient’s needs. The procedure itself can involve a range of steps, including precise incisions, tissue repositioning, removing pockets of fat, placing grafts, and more. Depending on your individual surgery plan, the entire process takes approximately 1-3 hours (sometimes more, sometimes less), but you will typically be able to return home the same day.

Preparing for Your Procedure

Before your eyelid revision procedure, following the pre-operative instructions provided by your doctor is crucial. This may include avoiding certain medications for at least two weeks before surgery, among other things. It is also vital to stop smoking for at least 1 month prior to the procedure, as this can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. Dr. Avila will also likely provide you with personalized instructions according to your individual situation, which are also essential to follow.

How Long Is the Recovery?

Total downtime varies from patient to patient, but most can expect to take about 1-2 weeks off from their usual routines, including time off from work and exercise. Most patients can expect to experience some swelling and bruising following the procedure, though these gradually fade and can be managed with aftercare. This should subside within a few days after surgery, and most people can return to some of their regular activities within a week or two of the procedure. Still, strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks or until Dr. Avila lets you know it is safe. She may also provide individualized, detailed instructions on how to care for your eye area during recovery if there were additional unique aspects to your procedure.

When Will I See the Results?

The results of your eyelid revision procedure will typically become visible within a few weeks after the procedure once the initial swelling and bruising have settled. While patients can begin enjoying results about this time, it is important to remember that final results may take up to six months or more as residual swelling subsides and the tissues fully settle. However, patients tend to agree that the results are worth the wait, as the long-term benefits of this type of plastic surgery can last for many years, depending on factors such as age and lifestyle. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful, balanced eyelid position for a youthful appearance for years to come.

How Long Do Results Last?

The results of eyelid revision surgery can last for many years, depending on factors such as age and lifestyle, with certain habits either prolonging or shortening results. For example, following post-procedure care instructions, living an active lifestyle, and maintaining a healthy diet all promote longer, better results. But habits such as drinking, smoking, and excessive sun exposure can all prematurely age your features and detract from your results’ longevity.

Can You Combine Eyelid Revisional Surgery With Other Procedures?

Yes, it is possible to combine eyelid revision surgery with other facial procedures, such as a facelift or a brow lift. A consultation with Dr. Avila can help you determine if this is the best option for you, as you will have the chance to discuss your goals and expectations completely in a stress-free environment. Combining procedures can provide more comprehensive results and may be beneficial for individuals looking to address multiple areas of concern in one procedure while avoiding multiple periods of downtime. Additionally, combining procedures may increase the balance of your features for a more stunning aesthetic overall.

How Much Does Eyelid Revision Surgery Cost in Miami?

The cost of eyelid revision surgery in Miami will vary based on the type of procedure and other individual factors. During your consultation, Dr. Avila can provide a cost estimate after evaluating your needs and goals, ensuring there are no financial surprises down the road. We gladly accept all major credit cards and can help patients explore financing options to help make the cost of treatment more accessible to them. Additionally, we are committed to providing care that lasts for years, providing patients with results that are worth the price due to the quality, longevity, and benefits of the outcomes.
Book Your Visit With Dr. Sarah Avila Today

Dr. Avila has committed to providing patients with fully satisfying care for eyelid malposition through eyelid revision in Miami. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarah Avila and get started on your journey toward a personalized experience. Discover a path for achieving the results you have wanted for so long with a team of professionals by your side.

Sarah Avila image
Sarah Avila, MD
Board Certification: Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Specialization: Eyelid Surgery & Aesthetics

Dr. Sarah Avila is an oculofacial plastic surgeon in Miami, Florida. After completing medical school, Dr. Avila completed a residency in ophthalmology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, followed by a highly competitive two-year ASOPRS-accredited fellowship in reconstructive and cosmetic oculofacial surgery at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. During this fellowship, Dr. Avila focused on plastic surgery related to the eyelids, brows, lacrimal duct system, orbit, and face.

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