Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Mentor, Ohio

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure designed to rejuvenate the eyes, creating a more youthful, rested appearance. Whether you’re experiencing functional or cosmetic issues with your eyelids, Dr. Paul Vanek specializes in eyelid procedures tailored to your specific needs. This surgery can restore the natural beauty of your eyes, improve your vision, and help you feel more confident.

What is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)?

Overview:

Eyelid surgery addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns with the upper and lower eyelids. Whether you’re dealing with sagging eyelids that obstruct your vision or aesthetic concerns, Dr. Vanek offers customized eyelid surgery options. The procedure may be partially covered by insurance if it’s performed for medical reasons, such as vision impairment, but typically not for purely cosmetic concerns.

Upper vs. Lower Blepharoplasty: What's the Difference?

Upper Blepharoplasty:

Upper eyelid surgery often involves removing excess skin, and sometimes fat, from the upper eyelid. Dr. Vanek’s expertise ensures that the procedure is done tastefully, without over-resecting, to avoid an “operated-on” look. Additionally, if the levator muscle is weak, he can repair it to restore more function to the eyelid and create a more awake and alert appearance.

Lower Blepharoplasty:

Lower eyelid surgery addresses sagging, bulging fat, and excess skin. Dr. Vanek is renowned for his ligament tightening technique, a more complex procedure that helps rejuvenate the lower eyelids. Unlike many surgeons, Dr. Vanek takes a comprehensive, three-dimensional approach to the surgery by assessing and rejuvenating the muscle, skin, and supportive tissue for natural-looking results.

Common Eyelid Conditions Treated by Dr. Vanek

  • Baggy Eyelids: Baggy eyelids are caused by aging or hereditary factors, and they may also worsen with allergies or smoking. Eyelid surgery can correct the loose skin and bulging fat that cause this condition.
  • Drooping Eyebrows: Drooping brows may obstruct the upper eyelids, affecting your vision. An eyebrow lift is often performed alongside upper eyelid surgery to restore the brows to a natural position.
  • Droopy Eyelids (Eyelid Ptosis): This condition can block your vision when the upper eyelid falls too low. Dr. Vanek performs surgery to repair the tendon that lifts the eyelid, especially when the eyelid has dropped due to aging or post-cataract surgery.
  • Eyelids That Turn Outward (Ectropion): Ectropion occurs when the lower eyelid turns outward, preventing proper tear distribution. Dr. Vanek uses a surgical technique, such as canthopexy, to reposition the eyelid and restore its function.
  • Eyelids That Turn Inward (Entropion): Inward-turning eyelids can cause irritation and risk severe infections. Dr. Vanek offers corrective surgery to prevent further complications from this condition.

Eyelid Rejuvenation Without Surgery: Alternatives Offered by Dr. Vanek

For patients who prefer non-surgical options, Dr. Vanek may suggest volume enhancement or a liquid lift to rejuvenate the upper face. These procedures can provide an effective alternative to surgery, particularly for those seeking a more subtle enhancement without the need for incisions.

What to Expect During Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation

Dr. Vanek’s consultation process is thorough and educational. Schedule your consultation today. He will review your medical history, evaluate your individual eyelid concerns, and discuss your goals. Together, you will explore the most appropriate surgical options. This personalized approach ensures that your surgery aligns with your anatomical needs and aesthetic desires.

Why Choose Dr. Vanek for Eyelid Surgery?

  • Experienced and Certified: Dr. Vanek is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has received specialized training at the Kellogg Eye Center at the University of Michigan. His expertise in both cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery makes him an excellent choice for this delicate procedure.
  • Personalized Approach: Dr. Vanek does not take a cookie-cutter approach to surgery. Each patient is treated individually, ensuring that their surgery addresses their specific needs.
  • Proven Results: Patients report satisfaction with their results, not just in terms of aesthetics, but also functional improvements like enhanced vision and eyelid health.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery and Results

Recovery:

After eyelid surgery, patients typically experience mild swelling and bruising, which usually resolves in about 7-10 days. Full recovery takes a few weeks, but most patients return to regular activities within 1-2 weeks.

Results:

The results from eyelid surgery are long-lasting. Patients typically experience a more youthful, refreshed appearance, with many seeing improved vision as well. The results not only improve your appearance but also enhance your overall quality of life.

Visit our before and after gallery. 

Patient Story: 88-Year-Old Woman with Severe Ectropion

One of Dr. Vanek’s most rewarding cases involved an 88-year-old woman with severe ectropion, causing her eyelids to turn outward, exposing her conjunctiva and leading to chronic drainage. After a one-hour outpatient procedure, her eyelid was repositioned to its correct position, eliminating the irritation and restoring normal function. The outcome was not only visually pleasing but also dramatically improved her quality of life. As seen in her before-and-after images, the surgery corrected the excess skin and reinserted the muscles to restore a natural, healthy eyelid position.

FAQs About Eyelid Surgery

How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?

Most patients recover within a few weeks. Swelling and bruising will typically subside within 7-10 days.

Yes, if your eyelids obstruct your field of vision, eyelid surgery can improve both your appearance and your vision by repositioning the eyelids.

If eyelid surgery is performed for medical reasons, such as vision impairment caused by sagging eyelids, it may be partially covered by insurance. Cosmetic eyelid surgery is typically not covered.

During your consultation, Dr. Vanek will assess your individual needs and recommend the best approach, whether upper, lower, or both types of surgery. Click here to schedule your consultation today. 

If surgery isn’t the right choice for you, Dr. Vanek offers alternatives such as volume enhancement or fat transfer to address aesthetic concerns in a non-invasive way.

Visit us today!