Common Mistakes Plastic Surgeons Make in Eyelid Surgery

Not every plastic surgery procedure produces the desired results. Sometimes, plastic surgeons make procedural mistakes that lead to undesirable results. Here are a few common mistakes that plastic surgeons make in eyelid surgery.

Performing an Eyelid Lift When a Brow Lift Is More Appropriate

Some plastic surgeons perform eyelid surgery to correct eyelid hooding when, in fact, they should be performing a different procedure. Excess hanging skin on the upper eyelids may be partially due to brow sagging (brow ptosis), in which the eyebrows have drooped over time. If eyelid hooding is visible from the side, the patient has brow ptosis, and this should be corrected with a brow lift, not an eyelid lift. When a plastic surgeon performs an eyelid lift where a brow lift would have been more appropriate, brow ptosis will become worse.

Failing to Combine an Eyelid Lift With a Brow Lift

Plastic surgeons may also fail to perform a brow lift with an eyelid lift when both are necessary. When excess upper eyelid skin is present along with brow ptosis, both must be corrected to prevent eyelid hooding. Typically, this will also lead to better aesthetic results and a more rested and youthful appearance.

Removing Too Much Fat

Some plastic surgeons believe that excess fat around the eyes should always be removed to prevent the appearance of sagging or puffiness. However, removing too much fat can lead the eyes to look hollow and gaunt. Very rarely, it may be appropriate to remove some fat from around the upper or lower eyelids, but most of the time, it is better to reposition the fat so that it does not bulge. This will create a more youthful appearance without hollowness.

Failing to Combine Eyelid Surgery With Complementary Treatments

Eyelid surgery can improve the structure of the eyelids and create a more youthful appearance. However, some plastic surgeons fail to take advantage of the opportunity to combine this procedure with complementary treatments such as laser resurfacing, BOTOX Cosmetic, and facial fillers. These additional treatments can further enhance the appearance of the eyes by eliminating wrinkles, filling in lost facial volume, and improving skin texture.

Michael Jazayeri, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon and has performed many highly successful eyelid surgery procedures. To schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Jazayeri, please call (714) 834-0101 or fill out our online contact form.