Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) in Tampa

Upper Blepharoplasty

Key Benefits:

• Lifts droopy upper eyelids for a refreshed look
• Improves peripheral vision if sagging obstructs sight
• Enhances symmetry and natural eye contours
• Easier makeup application
• Long-lasting rejuvenation

Recovery Time:

• 7 to 10 days for most swelling and bruising to resolve
• Minimal downtime; most return to light activities in 1 week
• Use of ointments and head elevation is recommended

Discomfort Level:

• Generally mild; manageable with medication and cold compresses

Scar Visibility:

• Hidden in the natural crease of the upper eyelid; fades well

Lower Blepharoplasty

Key Benefits:

• Reduces puffiness and under-eye bags
• Smooths wrinkles and tightens sagging skin beneath the eyes
• Creates a youthful, rested appearance
• Improves lower lid support and contour
• Enhances facial harmony

Recovery Time:

• 10 to 14 days for noticeable recovery
• Swelling and bruising may last slightly longer than upper lid surgery
• Post-op care includes cold compresses and eye protection

Discomfort Level:

• Slightly more discomfort due to lower lid bruising and sensitivity

Scar Visibility:

• Concealed along the lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach)

Pre-Operative Preparation

Your surgical journey begins well before the day of your procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Markelov conducts a thorough evaluation of your eyelid anatomy, including skin quality, fat distribution, muscle tone, and the relationship between your eyelids and brows. Medical history is reviewed, and any necessary pre-operative testing is completed. In the weeks before surgery, patients receive detailed instructions to optimize healing:

• Discontinue blood-thinning medications and supplements as directed
• Stop smoking at least four weeks prior to surgery
• Arrange for transportation home and assistance for the first 24 hours
• Fill prescriptions for post-operative medications
• Prepare a comfortable recovery space with cold compresses and recommended supplies

Anesthesia and Comfort

Depending on the extent of your procedure and personal preference, eyelid surgery may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Many patients undergoing upper blepharoplasty alone opt for local anesthesia with light sedation, remaining relaxed and comfortable throughout while avoiding the effects of general anesthesia.

 Dr. Markelov discusses anesthesia options during your consultation to determine the approach best suited to your needs.

Upper Blepharoplasty Technique

For upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Markelov begins by carefully marking the natural crease of the eyelid and the precise amount of skin to be removed. These measurements are made with the patient upright to account for how gravity affects tissue position. The procedure involves:

• A precise incision along the natural upper eyelid crease
• Removal of carefully measured excess skin
• Conservative adjustment or repositioning of underlying fat when indicated
• Refinement of the underlying muscle if necessary for optimal contour
• Meticulous closure using fine sutures placed within the crease

The incision placement ensures that any resulting scar remains virtually invisible within the natural fold of the eyelid. Dr. Markelov's technique emphasizes preserving adequate skin for comfortable eyelid closure while achieving a refreshed, defined appearance.

Lower Blepharoplasty Technique

Lower eyelid surgery requires careful assessment of the degree of skin laxity, fat protrusion, and lower lid support. Dr. Markelov tailors his approach based on individual anatomy:

• Transconjunctival Approach: For patients with adequate skin elasticity but prominent fat pads, an incision is made inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible external scar. Fat is repositioned or conservatively reduced to smooth the transition between the lower lid and cheek.
• External Approach: When excess skin must be addressed, a discreet incision is placed just below the lash line. This allows for skin removal and fat adjustment while maintaining a well-concealed scar.

In both approaches, Dr. Markelov often repositions fat rather than removing it entirely, creating a natural, smooth contour that avoids the hollow appearance that can result from over-aggressive fat removal. When needed, lower lid support is reinforced to maintain proper lid position and prevent complications.

Combined Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty

Many patients benefit from addressing both upper and lower eyelids during the same surgical session. This comprehensive approach achieves balanced rejuvenation and requires only one recovery period. Dr. Markelov carefully evaluates whether combined surgery is appropriate based on your anatomy, health status, and aesthetic goals.

Completion and Immediate Post-Operative Care

Following closure, an antibiotic ointment is applied to the incision sites. Patients are monitored as anesthesia wears off and provided with detailed post-operative instructions before being discharged home. The entire procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on whether upper, lower, or combined blepharoplasty is performed.