Patient FAQ Fort Lauderdale

I want to have cosmetic eyelid surgery. Why do I need an Oculoplastic Surgeon like Dr. Felder?

In addition to a one-year internship and four-year residency in ophthalmology, Dr. Felder completed a one-year fellowship in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ophthalmic plastic surgeons have the most specialized training to perform eyelid surgery, and that is the only surgery performed by Dr. Felder. Those that claim they are eyelid specialists, will be Oculoplastic surgeons, no other. Dr. Felder will show you hundreds of his before and after eyelid surgery photos which is imperative in evaluating who should perform your cosmetic eyelid surgery.

Are cosmetic consultations complimentary?

If you are considering a cosmetic procedure or surgery, there will be a fee for your consultation with Dr. Felder.

Will I still look like myself after Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery?

The goal of Dr. Felder’s cosmetic eyelid surgery, is not to change what you look like or make you look like you have had surgery. He emphasizes a natural appearance after surgery. Our patients report that, upon returning to work or daily life, friends make the following remarks: “Wow you look great. Did you change your hairstyle?” or “Have you been on vacation?” Maintaining a natural yet refreshed look is the hallmark of a successful procedure, performed by Dr. Felder.

What is an Upper Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)?

The upper eyelid lift, also known as a Blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure designed to rejuvenate an aging upper eyelid. The upper eyelid lift can improve the appearance of drooping skin and puffiness in the upper eyelids. An incision is placed in the upper eyelid crease and closed with very precise small stitches. The stitches will be removed by Dr. Felder within a week.

What is a Transconjunctival Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty?

This is a technique for removing puffiness or fat from the lower eyelid that Dr. Felder prefers and has been using since 1995. A small incision is placed on the inside of the lower eyelid, and fat is removed without disturbing other structures. There are no stitches used in this technique and thus no visible scar. The most important reason for using this technique is that the eyelid shape remains the same, we do not see dry eye after this surgery and the likelihood of complications are reduced. In addition, laser resurfacing is used at the same time to tighten the skin, without any skin incision or stitches.

What is Ptosis of the Upper Eyelids?

Ptosis (pronounced “toe-sis”) is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid(s) partly covering the pupil. Ptosis causes a tired, sleepy appearance and reduces vision. Repair is intended to provide a more youthful, vibrant appearance as well as to improve your sight.

Patients with ptosis often have difficulty keeping their eyelids open. To compensate, they will often arch their eyebrows in an effort to raise the drooping eyelids. As we age, the tendon that attaches the levator muscle, the major muscle that lifts the eyelid can stretch and cause the eyelid to fall. Ptosis repair requires extensive experience. Care is needed in planning and performing the surgery.

Dr. Felder can repair the ptosis at the same time as he performs a cosmetic upper eyelid lift or blepharoplasty.

Will insurance pay for my eyelid surgery?

Dr. Felder does not accept insurance for any eyelid procedures. However, there are some surgeons that will accept your insurance for certain procedures.

How do I prepare for my eyelid surgery?

During your initial pre-operative visit with Dr. Felder, be prepared to give a complete medical history including all of your medications, vitamins, allergies and previous surgeries. You will undergo a medical examination and routine blood tests. If you are over the age of 50, we require an EKG to be performed. Photographs will be taken to aid Dr. Felder in planning and performing your custom eyelid surgery. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken prior to and after your surgical procedure.

You will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include post-operative care, and avoiding certain medications, vitamins and alcohol which can interfere with the procedure. You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your surgery. If you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform Dr. Felder so you may be examined prior to your procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

If both upper and lower eyelid are done together, the surgery generally takes one hour at our in-office operating suite. Less time is required if the procedure is performed only on the lower or upper eyelids. The upper eyelids normally take 40 minutes and lower eyelids only 30 minutes.

What form of anesthesia is used?

We perform almost all of our eyelid surgeries under twilight anesthesia (IV Sedation). On certain occasions, a patient who is having only upper eyelids or laser resurfacing may have only local anesthesia, being fully awake for the procedure. All of our anesthesia is given by an expert nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or anesthesiologist (M.D.), and you will be asleep throughout the procedure. We do not believe that general anesthesia is needed for cosmetic eyelid surgery, due to its increased risks.

Can I return home the same day?

Yes. All of our cosmetic eyelid surgery is done in our in-office operating suite. All patients leave our office within one hour after the procedure. You will not be allowed to drive home after any procedure requiring IV Sedation or twilight anesthesia, someone must pick you up after the surgery.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most patients may return to work and regular functions in less than a week. Exercise can commence two weeks from the time of surgery.

What is the recovery process?

Mild swelling and discoloration are expected following an eyelid lift, but it usually will subside in five to seven days. Following the procedure most patients will have minimal if any discomfort, which is relieved by Tylenol.

After surgery, ice compresses or frozen peas are applied to the eyelids for 48 hours. You will have no bandages or patches, however your vision may be blurred for a couple days as we do use ointments that may cause some decreased vision. Any bruising around the eyes can be disguised with lightly tinted sunglasses or special make-up. You will be given specific instructions regarding rest, sleeping position and washing your face and hair.

Upper eyelid stitches are removed seven to eight days after surgery by Dr. Felder, not a nurse or assistant. Remember that an eyelid lift cannot stop the aging process around your eyes. Although excess skin is removed and wrinkles are diminished, your skin continues to age. We can provide you with products that will slow this process down.

What are the possible complications from eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery rarely produces a serious complication. Any form of surgery will leave scars. Dr. Felder places the upper eyelid incision within the natural folds and facial lines, so that they are inconspicuous and rarely detectable. Nevertheless, you should be aware that the width, height and color of scars are not totally predictable.

Patients occasionally ask if blindness can result from this procedure. While this complication has been reported in the literature, it is exceedingly rare. Lesser complications include improper closure of the eyelids during sleep and dry eye. However, with Dr. Felder’s use of the Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty, this does not occur. It is important to enter into your procedure aware not only of the benefits, but also of the possible complications. You can discuss with Dr. Felder all the concerns that you may have regarding your eyelid surgery, during your consultation.

Which dermal fillers are right for me?

Dr. Felder uses dermal fillers such as Voluma XC™, Restylane®, Juvéderm™, and Belotero™ depending on the area that needs improving as well as the desired duration of the effect. Dr. Felder can assess your needs and direct you to which facial fillers would be best for your situation. He performs all of the injections, not delegating them to a nurse or assistant. These injections can also be performed at the same time as your cosmetic eyelid surgery.