720-765-7214Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Denver, CO
At Flourish Surgical Arts in Denver, we offer advanced eyelid surgery for patients seeking to refresh their appearance and tackle eyelid issues. As people age, the skin near the eyes may stretch and become less firm. This can cause under-eye bags and droopy lids. Nonetheless, with the help of progress in medicine, getting a rejuvenated appearance is now possible using eyelid surgery. Over 1,000 patients have trusted Dr. John R. Nesiba, our triple board-certified surgeon, to boost their confidence and accentuate their natural beauty. We are dedicated to assisting each patient in reaching their aesthetic goals by offering individualized care utilizing the latest surgical techniques.
Table of Contents
What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that improves the look of the eyelids. During this operation, Dr. Nesiba removes excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. The goal is to make the eyes look more open, awake, and youthful. Some might choose to have this procedure if they feel their droopy upper lids or baggy lower lids make them look older than they are.
Blepharoplasty surgery is used to remove sagging corners of the eyes, drooping eyelid skin, “bags” under the eyes, and “fatty hernias” on the upper eyelids. In addition, this procedure helps to eliminate skin laxity and asymmetry of the eyes, change the shape of the eyes, and restore a fresh look. Eyelid surgery can be prescribed to patients of any age, starting from 18 years old. Although it does not significantly alter the shape of eyes overall, it can be combined with other cosmetic procedures for a more complete rejuvenation.
Eyelid Surgery Techniques
At Flourish Surgical Arts in Denver, we offer various eyelid surgery techniques to suit each patient’s cosmetic needs and personal characteristics. These techniques differ in how incisions are made, how the surgeon gains access during the procedure, and what corrections are performed on the eyelid tissue. Here are some of the main techniques we provide:
Upper
Blepharoplasty
Lower
Blepharoplasty
Bilateral
Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid Surgery Procedure
At the initial consultation, our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Nesiba, thoroughly examines the patient to assess their suitability for eyelid surgery and establish the most appropriate technique for them. The doctor also decides whether local anesthesia or sedation will be required and takes pictures for use as a reference point during recovery. He also provides patients with an all-inclusive price quote for this surgery.
After that, the patient has a complete check-up to uncover any medical problems. Dr. Nesiba may ask for tests, such as blood work, an in-depth eye exam, or sometimes additional imaging studies. The results are checked to make sure it’s safe for the patient to have surgery.
There are several medical reasons why someone might not be able to have an eyelid surgery. These include:
- Severe dry eye syndrome
- Uncontrolled glaucoma
- Retinal detachment
- Thyroid eye disease
- Diabetes
- Chronic and infectious diseases
Marking and Anesthesia:
On the day of the surgery, Dr. Nesiba marks the eyelids’ perimeters for incisions. Then, an anesthesiologist delivers local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the type of eyelid surgery, so that patients remain pain-free and comfortable throughout the operation.
Incisions and Adjustment:
Our surgeon makes incisions precisely as marked before surgery. For upper blepharoplasty, he makes the incision within the upper eyelid’s natural crease. For lower eyelid surgery, an incision is created either just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach). Dr. Nesiba utilizes these incisions to eliminate or reposition surplus fat, skin, and muscle for a smoother, more youthful look.
Closing the Incisions:
Once the surgeon has finished making any necessary adjustments, he closes the incisions using fine sutures. These are carefully positioned so that scarring is as minimal as possible and the results look natural. The entire procedure generally takes between one and three hours, depending on how complicated it is and whether both upper and lower eyelids are being addressed.
Add-On Procedure: A Facelift
When patients undergo eyelid surgery, they often also decide to have a facelift as a complementary cosmetic surgery. This additional procedure helps with droopy skin, deep creases, and fatty jowls below the jawline. To perform a facelift, our surgeon lifts and tightens facial muscles underneath the skin. He then removes any excess tissue before re-draping the skin on the face and neck. Different types of facelifts are available, such as mini lifts, total (traditional) lifts, and deep plane lifts. Which one a patient has depends on their individual concerns and goals. While combining eyelid surgery with a facelift can lead to a lengthier recovery period, many patients find that the overall results are worth it as they receive a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Recovery After a Blepharoplasty
Immediate Recovery
After the procedure, we like to watch our patients to ensure the healing goes smoothly. Most of them stay in our cozy facility for a few hours after their operation, where we can look after their health as they recover from anesthesia. While they are here, our experts monitor their progress and begin the initial stages of recovery. We can provide medication and care to help minimize any discomfort, swelling, or bruising. However, experiencing some of these issues is expected after the procedure.
Initial Weeks
For the first one to two weeks after having eyelid surgery, we suggest that patients put cold compresses on their eyes to bring down any swelling or bruising. We also recommend sleeping with a head propped up slightly to stop fluid pooling around the eyes and making them puffy. Patients might find their eyes feel dry, itchy, or watery. In this case, we may prescribe ointments or eye drops to alleviate these symptoms.
Usually, stitches are removed within a week to ten days. For the first couple of weeks afterward, we recommend avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending since these activities could increase blood flow to the eyes and make swelling worse. Wearing dark sunglasses is also important to protect the eyes from sunlight and wind.
Long-Term Results
In most cases, it takes a few weeks to a few months for all swelling and bruising to disappear after an operation. Within the first few weeks, most patients see a big difference in their eyelids’ appearance. However, it can take several months to notice the final results. The outcome of an eyelid surgery can be long-lasting, especially when maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure.
Ideal Candidates for an Eyelid Surgery
This surgery aims to enhance the appearance of eyelids for a more youthful look. Patients considering it should be in overall good health and have realistic expectations. Here are some key points that would make someone a suitable candidate for an eyelid surgery:
Drooping or Sagging Eyelids
The most common patients for this surgery have droopy or sagging skin in the upper eyelids that interfere with their vision or make them look exhausted.
Under-Eye Bags
Those with puffy lower eyelids that don’t improve even with sufficient sleep and skincare may benefit from lower blepharoplasty.
Excess Skin
Patients bothered by extra skin on their upper or lower lids, which causes wrinkles or affects the natural contour of the eyelids, are good candidates.
Good Health
For good results, it is best to have good overall health, without any severe eye conditions, and with a stable medical history.
Non-Smokers
Nicotine can have a negative impact on recovery. So, patients should be non-smokers or willing to quit at least four weeks before surgery to promote optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Benefits of an Eyelid Surgery
Aesthetic Improvements
With eyelid surgery, patients can transform their appearance. The procedure removes excess skin and fat to make your eyes look wider open and less tired or old. In fact, it can take years off their fact. Blepharoplasty helps create a younger, fresher-looking look.
Functional Benefits
This facial surgery has more than just aesthetic benefits. By lifting skin that sags on the upper eyelids, the procedure can also expand side vision that’s hindered by droopy eyelids—something people may not even realize is an issue. Further, removing excess skin and fat means there’s less pitfall for skin folds or rubbing that can cause irritation or discomfort.
Boost in Self-Confidence and Overall Satisfaction
Enhancing eyelid appearance and function can significantly increase self-confidence, improving quality of life. Looking better and having a clearer vision leads to an overall sense of happiness and contentment. Numerous patients say they feel prouder of themselves and are more optimistic about everything once they have healed up.
Minimal Scarring and Downtime
Eyelid surgery is performed with great care, using exact incisions situated along eyelid creases so scars are barely visible. Patients take little time to recover, and most can go back to their regular routines in about one or two weeks. The combination of minimal scarring and quick recovery makes eyelid surgery a highly desirable option for those seeking both aesthetic and functional improvements.
Cost of an Eyelid Surgery in Denver
The average cost of eyelid surgery in Denver, CO, ranges between $3,000 and $8,000. The price covers everything you’ll need: the surgeon, anesthesia, use of the operating room, and supplies or aftercare items. Factors that can affect the overall cost include the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments, such as a brow lift or facelift, are performed in conjunction with the eyelid surgery. Patients interested in eyelid surgery should schedule a consultation with Dr. Nesiba to receive an individualized quote and discuss their specific needs and goals.
Blepharoplasty FAQs
How much does blepharoplasty cost in Denver?
Eyelid surgery at Flourish Surgical Arts ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 depending on whether the upper lids, lower lids or both are treated. Flourish Surgical Arts partners with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit for monthly payment plans, and you can use the Instant Quote tool on this site or call 720-765-7214 for a personalized estimate.
Will insurance pay for blepharoplasty?
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is not covered by insurance. Upper blepharoplasty that corrects skin obstructing your field of vision may be covered by some plans when the obstruction is documented. For self-pay procedures we offer CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit payment plans.
What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin, muscle when needed and fat through an incision hidden in the natural crease of the upper eyelid, addressing drooping that can age the face or interfere with sight. Lower blepharoplasty targets puffiness and bags beneath the eyes. Dr. Nesiba recommends the technique based on your anatomy and goals.
How long is recovery after eyelid surgery?
Most patients rest in our facility for a few hours after surgery while we monitor them. For the first one to two weeks we recommend cold compresses and sleeping with your head elevated to limit swelling and bruising; eyes may feel dry, itchy or watery during this period. Swelling settles over the following weeks and final results emerge over the next few months.
How long does blepharoplasty last?
Results are long-lasting because the excess skin and fat that are removed do not return. The eyes continue to age naturally, but most patients enjoy the refreshed appearance for many years.
Is blepharoplasty worth it?
Patients choose eyelid surgery for both aesthetic and functional reasons. It opens up the eyes and reduces a tired look, and lifting sagging upper-lid skin can restore peripheral vision that droopy lids were blocking. Incisions sit in natural creases, so scarring is minimal and downtime is relatively short.
Flourish Surgical Arts Is the Best Destination for Your Eyelid Surgery in Denver
At Flourish Surgical Arts in Denver, we take great pride in providing outstanding care from our experienced professionals. Safety and contentment are our top priorities for every patient. We create customized plans for each eyelid surgery and address each person’s specific requirements. Our facility is equipped with the latest technology, and our team uses advanced techniques. We aim to ensure that patients feel supported and valued as we help them achieve their facial rejuvenation goals–improving appearance and self-esteem.
Ready to Enhance Your Natural Beauty?
Ready to Enhance Your Natural Beauty?
