Eyelid Surgery Newport Beach

– NEWPORT BEACH, CA –

Of all your facial features, nothing pierces the soul more than your eyes. Science has proven time and time again how most people find the eyes to be the most striking and attractive facial feature they look for in a partner.

Eyes come in all shapes, colors, and sizes, but youthful-looking eyes that complement one’s face have always been what’s constituted as beautiful eyes.

But as you age, your skin loses elasticity — including the skin surrounding your eyes. And with the constant pull of gravity coupled with muscle weakness, the skin of your eyelids can stretch, sag, and form unsightly wrinkles, making you look tired and a lot older than your years.

You might even develop extra folds of skin hanging over your upper eyelids, obstructing your view and limiting your sight. When that happens, some people unconsciously raise their brows and keep them up all the time in order to improve their vision.

Unfortunately, no amount of sleep can get rid of those lower eyelid bags, and even concealer makeups have a hard time hiding them from plain sight. Sometimes, they aren’t even caused by age — they can be hereditary or a result of fluid accumulation.

How great would it feel if you could wake up one morning without needing eye pads or cold compresses to reduce and conceal your puffy eye bags?

Eyelid Surgery Newport Beach
Thanks to Dr. Siamak Agha of The Aesthetic Centers, you no longer need to put sliced cucumbers and various creams on your eyes to make them look alert and refreshed.

Whether you have brown, almond-shaped eyes or rounded blue eyes, a Newport Beach eyelid surgery will help eliminate the hooded skin of your upper lids and the puffiness and bags of your lower lids, bringing out rejuvenated and younger-looking eyes.

Discover how eyelid surgery can help you as you read the rest of this article.

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What is Eyelid Surgery?

As you age, your upper eyelid skin develops wrinkles and loses its crisp contour due to pockets of bulging fat.

The lower eyelids also experience similar but more profound changes. Like the upper lids, the supporting structures of the lower eyelid weaken over time, being pushed out by pockets of fat globules surrounding the eyeball. Thus, you develop lower eyelid bags due to a combination of weakened eyelid supporting structures and bulging fat.

Fortunately, you can combat these changes with an eyelid surgery — medically known as blepharoplasty. 

Eyelid surgery does three things:

  • Eliminates droopiness and heaviness from your upper eyelids
  • Reduces bagginess and puffiness from your lower eyelids
  • Improves the shape and contour of your eyes
Before and after illustration of eyelid surgery

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ 2018 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, eyelid surgery is the fourth most popular cosmetic procedure of 2018. Over 206,000 patients underwent the surgery, most of them aged 40 years old and above.

But take note that eyelid surgery will NOT eliminate the dark circles under your eyes and other facial wrinkles. It also won’t help lift sagging brows, unless you pair it with brow lift surgery.

Eyelid surgery can, however, add a crease on your upper eyelids using a procedure known as double eyelid surgery or Asian blepharoplasty.

Learn more about double eyelid surgery in this article.

Dr. Agha takes the time to know you as a person and fully understand your specific goals. He is a dear physician who communicates clearly and concisely.

Lesley L.

What are the Different Eyelid Surgery Techniques?

There are plenty of reasons why you may undergo eyelid surgery, and your reason will dictate whether you need upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. 

Dr. Agha also offers canthopexy and canthoplasty, depending on your eyelid anatomy and facial structure.

Learn more about these blepharoplasty techniques below.

Eyelid Surgery Newport Beach

Upper Eyelid Surgery

The upper blepharoplasty is ideal for patients with overhanging upper eyelids and lateral hooding — a condition in which the excess skin of your upper eyelid goes past your eyes, impeding your vision.

Dr. Agha places the incision line at the natural eyelid crease, through which he removes excess skin of the upper lid, fat, and muscle. 

Generally, upper eyelid surgery is less complex compared to lower eyelid surgery.

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Dr. Agha employs a number of different techniques for lower blepharoplasty depending on your problem.

Check out the following lower eyelid surgery techniques to get an idea on which one might work best for you:

For Bulging Fat Only: Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty


One of the most common approaches is the transconjunctival incision, which is effective in reducing lower eyelid bags and puffiness. It is perfect for people with bulging fat under the eyes and minimal skin laxity.

In this technique, Dr. Agha places an incision on the inner aspect of the eyelid and removes excess bulging fat through it. 

Because the incision is not on the skin surface, the transconjunctival approach creates no visible incision. However, no skin can be removed as well.

For Excess Skin Only: Skin Pinch Blepharoplasty


If your only problem is loose skin in your lower lids, then the skin pinch blepharoplasty might be the method for you.

In this technique, Dr. Agha only removes excess skin from your lower lids through a well-hidden subciliary incision placed in the crease under the lower lid lashes.

The skin pinch approach is best for people with strong lower eyelid support and no bulging fat, so the surgeon only needs to remove a small amount of excess skin to make the lower lids smooth and wrinkle-free.

For Bulging Fat and Excess Skin: Subciliary Blepharoplasty


If you have a combination of lax skin and fat pockets in your lower lid, then you should get a subciliary blepharoplasty. It removes any wrinkly skin in your lower eyelids and eliminates fatty bags as needed.

Though this procedure is more complicated than the previous ones, the subciliary blepharoplasty is Dr. Agha’s most frequently used method.

In this approach, Dr. Agha places the incision along the lower lid just below the lashes in a natural crease, so that it’s hidden from view by the lower lash line.

Through the incision, Dr. Agha lifts the delicate skin of the lower lid from the lid muscle. He then separates the muscle fibers to access the supporting structures of the lower eyelid. 

Afterward, Dr. Agha tightens the supporting structures of the lower eyelid to push back the bulging fat. At the same time, he trims the fat that creates the lower lid bags. 

In some cases, the arcus marginalis — a fibrous tissue attaching the lower lids to the facial bone at the eyes’ lower orbital rim — might need to be released to create a smoother transition from the lower eyelids to the upper cheeks. It can also further diminish the dark circles under your eyes.

The incision is then closed with small, meticulously-placed stitches.

Canthopexy and Canthoplasty


Both canthopexy and canthoplasty are lower eyelid procedures often done to strengthen or support the lower eyelids. 

As you age, it is not uncommon to develop looseness of the lower eyelids as its supporting muscles and connective tissue attachments weaken. As this happens, the lower lids sag slightly by one to two millimeters, showing more of the eye conjunctiva — the white part of the eyes.   

When this happens, a canthopexy or canthoplasty must be performed at the time of a lower eyelid surgery to tighten the lower lids and restore their correct anatomical position. Failure to do so may result in dry eyes. 

Canthoplasty focuses on the outer corners of the eyes — known as the lateral canthus — where the lower eyelid attaches to the eye socket. During canthoplasty, the lateral canthus is detached, shortened, and sutured to the eye socket to tighten the lower eyelid and position it slightly higher against the eyeball. 

On the other hand, canthopexy is less invasive than canthoplasty. It involves the meticulous placement of sutures to tighten the lateral canthus without the need to detach the tendon. 

Canthopexy works well for milder cases of lower eyelid laxity, whereas canthoplasty or lid shortening procedures may be necessary for moderate to severe cases.

Without these corrective surgeries, the lower eyelid may evert and show more of the eyeball after a lower blepharoplasty.

Eyelid Surgery Newport Beach

How Does Dr. Agha Do Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty is often done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can immediately go home a few hours after your surgery.

Weeks prior to your scheduled eyelid surgery, you might need to undergo the following tests:

  • Physical Examination – includes testing your tear production and measuring parts of your eyelids
  • Vision Examination – involves testing your peripheral vision, often done to support an insurance claim
  • Eyelid Photography – involves taking images of the eyes from different angles

Here’s a quick rundown of how he does it.

Preparation

Dr. Agha will give specific instructions on what to do to make sure that you do not develop any complications. You might also be asked to buy a few supplies for a smooth-sailing recovery.

Anesthesia

You will be given local anesthesia with oral or intravenous sedation before the procedure.

In some cases, your board-certified anesthesiologist may administer general anesthesia, especially if other facial surgeries are planned.

Incision

If you’re having both upper and lower eyelids done, Dr. Agha works on the upper lids first.

Dr. Agha makes incisions following the natural lines in your eyelids — in the creases of your upper lids and just below the lashes in the lower lids.

Depending on the extent of the surgery, the incisions may extend into the crow’s feet located at the outer corner of your eyes.

Removal of Excess Tissue, Fat, and Skin

Once the upper eyelid incisions are made through the skin, Dr. Agha then removes the excess skin carefully from the underlying muscle. He then proceeds to remove the excess muscle to expose the underlying fat bulges. The excess fat is then trimmed and the upper eyelid incision approximated using extremely thin sutures.

For lower eyelid surgery, Dr. Agha typically performs a subciliary blepharoplasty. First, he separates the skin of the lower lid from the underlying muscle fibers. He then teases the lower lid muscle open to access the weakened connective tissue fascia or septum of the lower lid that holds the fat around the eyeball in place.

He then detaches the weakened septum from the eye socket’s lower rim and reattaches it tightly to push the fat back. This way, he gets rid of the bags under the eyes.

He may also trim and remove or reposition some of the fat as needed.

Post-Surgery

The eyelid incisions are then closed using very fine sutures, then covered with thin ophthalmic ointment.

Eyelid surgery can take anywhere from one to three hours, depending on how extensive the surgery is. 

It can also be paired with other facial surgeries like the facelift and brow lift to reduce wrinkles and achieve a younger, fresher look. In fact, plastic surgeons recommend combining these surgeries to achieve the best results.

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How Does Dr. Agha Do Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty is often done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can immediately go home a few hours after your surgery.

Weeks prior to your scheduled eyelid surgery, you might need to undergo the following tests:

  • Physical Examination – includes testing your tear production and measuring parts of your eyelids
  • Vision Examination – involves testing your peripheral vision, often done to support an insurance claim
  • Eyelid Photography – involves taking images of the eyes from different angles

Here’s a quick rundown of how he does it.

Preparation

Dr. Agha will give specific instructions on what to do to make sure that you do not develop any complications. You might also be asked to buy a few supplies for a smooth-sailing recovery.

Anesthesia

You will be given local anesthesia with oral or intravenous sedation before the procedure.

In some cases, your board-certified anesthesiologist may administer general anesthesia, especially if other facial surgeries are planned.

Incision

If you’re having both upper and lower eyelids done, Dr. Agha works on the upper lids first.

Dr. Agha makes incisions following the natural lines in your eyelids — in the creases of your upper lids and just below the lashes in the lower lids.

Depending on the extent of the surgery, the incisions may extend into the crow’s feet located at the outer corner of your eyes.

Removal of Excess Tissue, Fat, and Skin

Once the upper eyelid incisions are made through the skin, Dr. Agha then removes the excess skin carefully from the underlying muscle. He then proceeds to remove the excess muscle to expose the underlying fat bulges. The excess fat is then trimmed and the upper eyelid incision approximated using extremely thin sutures.

For lower eyelid surgery, Dr. Agha typically performs a subciliary blepharoplasty. First, he separates the skin of the lower lid from the underlying muscle fibers. He then teases the lower lid muscle open to access the weakened connective tissue fascia or septum of the lower lid that holds the fat around the eyeball in place.

He then detaches the weakened septum from the eye socket’s lower rim and reattaches it tightly to push the fat back. This way, he gets rid of the bags under the eyes.

He may also trim and remove or reposition some of the fat as needed.

Post-Surgery

The eyelid incisions are then closed using very fine sutures, then covered with thin ophthalmic ointment.

Eyelid surgery can take anywhere from one to three hours, depending on how extensive the surgery is. 

It can also be paired with other facial surgeries like the facelift and brow lift to reduce wrinkles and achieve a younger, fresher look. In fact, plastic surgeons recommend combining these surgeries to achieve the best results.

How Do You Recover from Eyelid Surgery?

Read the general information on recovery after facial surgery.

Expect some discomfort on the first few days after your eyelid surgery. However, this will subside over time, and Dr. Agha will give you oral medications to help ease the pain as needed.

You’ll also experience bruising and swelling up to a week post-surgery. You can reduce swelling by applying ice packs to your eye area at least four times a day. It is also recommended to sleep upright for the first few days post-op, propped with extra pillows.

Some people may develop dry eyes, but it usually does not last for more than two weeks. If you experience eye dryness, let the office know.

You may also temporarily experience blurred vision, watery eyes, double vision, light sensitivity, and numb eyelids.

Stitches are typically removed at 7 days post-op, except if they are self-absorbing stitches.

Scars fade and become inconspicuous in a few months’ time. If there’s any residual bruising, you can hide them with cosmetics or dark sunglasses until it completely fades.

Here’s an estimated timeline of when you can return to your normal activities, as long as there are no complications:

TimelineActivity
Up to three days post-eyelid surgeryBruising and swelling at their peak.
5-10 daysInitial healing completed
Return to work.
Removal of sutures (if not self-absorbing).
1 weekResume daily normal activities gradually.
2 weeksLight exercises allowed.
Resume use of contact lenses as needed.

What Results Can You Expect from Eyelid Surgery?

Once you get eyelid surgery, expect:

  • Alert and refreshed eyes
  • Improved eye shape and contour
  • Reduced wrinkles around the eyes
  • Tighter and firmer skin around the eyes
  • Youthful-looking eyes
  • Improved vision, especially peripheral vision
  • Increased confidence and self-esteem

Even as you age, you can typically enjoy long-lasting results with eyelid surgery. Most patients report enjoying up to 15 years of younger-looking eyes without the need for repeat surgery.

Eyelid Surgery FAQs

How Much Does a Newport Beach Eyelid Surgery Cost?

According to Aedit.com, blepharoplasty at a high-end plastic surgery practice can cost up to $10,000. The final cost of your eyelid surgery depends on several factors, such as:

  • Location – Doing the surgery in your plastic surgeon’s own surgical facility may cost less compared to a hospital. Plus, a Newport Beach eyelid surgery might cost less than the same procedure done in New York City since the former has a lower cost of living.
  • Anesthesia – Most eyelid surgeries only require local anesthesia with sedation, costing less than general anesthesia. But if you have to correct muscle weakness or have fat pads removed, you might need general anesthesia, hiking up your total cost.
  • Type of eyelid surgery – Lower eyelid surgery is generally more expensive than upper eyelid surgery, as the former may involve fat transfer and repositioning, laser resurfacing, and eyelid tightening. However, combining both upper and lower lid surgeries will save you money.
  • Other procedures – It’s common to combine your eyelid surgery with other procedures, like forehead lift and facelift. That would naturally entail additional fees.
  • Surgeon – The more experienced and reputable a plastic surgeon is, the higher the charge. But considering that this is an invasive procedure, spending more money on a highly-skilled plastic surgeon is worth the investment as he is more experienced and capable of handling complex cases.

Other possible fees you need to take note of are lab workups, medical tests, prescription medications, and medical supplies you’ll need after the surgery.

Unless you get eyelid surgery for medical reasons, cosmetic blepharoplasty isn’t covered by insurance.

But if the condition of your eyelids is impeding your vision and it is proven by a vision test, you might qualify for health insurance. Don’t hesitate to call your health insurance company for details and clarifications.

Do You Need Eyelid Surgery?

Unhappy with your eyelids? Try to answer the following questions to see if you’re a good candidate for eyelid surgery.

  • Do you have droopy or hooded eyelids?
  • Are you having a hard time seeing things because of the sagging skin around your eyes?
  • Do your eyes make you look sleepy, tired, sad, or stressed?
  • Do you still have eyebags even though you’re getting a full eight hours of sleep?
  • Do you have fine, crepe paper-type lower eyelid wrinkles?
  • Have you developed forehead wrinkles and headaches due to constant frowning because of your hooded lids?
  • Do you dread leaving the house without any eye makeup on?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, then you might want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Agha  to ask about the possibility of blepharoplasty.

Can You Get Eyelid Surgery?

You know that you’re in dire need of eyelid surgery, but does your current situation allow you to get one? Check out the following factors that determine whether you can get a blepharoplasty or not:

Age

The majority of people who get eyelid surgery are 40 years or older, as the skin around their eyes loses elasticity and begins to sag. However, if baggy or droopy eyelids run in your family, it’s possible to have the surgery done earlier.

Good Overall Health

Like all other elective cosmetic surgeries, you need to be healthy before you can get eyelid surgery. Any severe pre-existing conditions might make your operation too risky.

Realistic Expectations

Discuss with your plastic surgeon the reasons why you want to get eyelid surgery, as well as the results you’re hoping to achieve. You should also be aware of both the benefits and risks of the procedure.

Get Your Eyelid Surgery Done in Newport Beach, Orange County​

Thinking of getting an eyelid surgery? Your choice of plastic surgeon matters if you want to achieve the youthful, refreshed-looking eyes you’ve always wanted.

Armed with 15 years of plastic surgery experience and countless positive reviews from happy patients, Dr. Agha ensures not only the best results but also the highest safety standards for your Newport Beach eyelid surgery.