Eyelid Surgery with Dr. Alison R. Tendler
What is Blepharoplasty?
Did you know that eyelid surgery is one of the most commonly-performed cosmetic surgeries? Eyelid surgery can refer to the entire area around the eye, including the eyebrows and the skin, muscles, and fat pads surrounding the upper and lower eyelids. Not only can excess skin or drooping eyelids make you appear older than you are, but can also obstruct how you see the world. Eyelid surgeries provide an awakened, brighter appearance and can address functional concerns including impaired vision. Does this sound like a condition that might be bothering you? No worries! We’ll walk you through what eyelid surgery looks like at ART Vision and how it can help you.
What’s the first step?
The first step is calling to set up an appointment at ART Vision! You do not have to have a doctor referral to make your appointment. When you call, we will connect you with one of our team members who can address your medical history and concerns and answer any questions you may have. This will help our team ensure you are set up for the correct appointment type for your particular needs. From there, you will be set up with an in-office evaluation to undergo a thorough exam and any necessary testing for your condition. If you are interested to see if insurance coverage is met, you will also undergo a visual field test. After that, it’s time to meet with Dr. Tendler. During the evaluation, Dr. Tendler will assess the skin surrounding your eyes, take measurements, develop a plan for your particular condition, and discuss both surgical and nonsurgical options with you.
At ART Vision, we pride ourselves on working with patients from start to finish of their surgical journey and beyond. This means we really get the opportunity to get to know one another!
How are blepharoplasties performed?
Dr. Alison R. Tendler is the owner and founder of ART Vision and a skilled ophthalmologist, especially in the performance of oculoplastic procedures. Her skill set is not only in helping you look better, but truly helping individuals see better as well. Dr. Tendler and the team at ART Vision ensure individuals looking into eyelid surgery undergo an in-depth consultation to discuss goals, expectations, and realistic solutions. Dr. Tendler also provides her patients with surgical and non-surgical options that can best fit your concerns and goals.
What does eyelid surgery actually entail?
What does surgery day look like at ART Vision?
The day has finally arrived - surgery day! On the day of your procedure, you will arrive at our office at ART Vision, located at the Galleria on the corner of 69th and Western in South Sioux Falls. You should anticipate being in our beautiful facility for two to three hours on surgery day. Don’t stress! Before surgery, our team of experts will go through all post-operative instructions, answer any questions, and start your anesthesia.
One of the best parts? Typically no IV is required for surgery! Generally, oral anesthesia is all that is needed, allowing you to breathe independently during your procedure. You will be brought back into our in-office surgical suite, where one of our team members will administer a numbing injection into and around the area to be treated. After this, your eyelid area will be cleaned and prepped thoroughly to minimize any risk of infection…first and foremost, we prioritize your safety at ART Vision. Then, it is time for Dr. Tendler to perform the surgery. Post-operatively, you will be moved to the recovery area and you will have cold packs on your eyes for approximately 15-20 minutes.
Check out this patient’s before and after:
What are the Aftercare Instructions?
Patients should adhere to the provided aftercare instructions and attend each scheduled visit so our team can monitor their recovery. You are encouraged to use cold compresses frequently for any discomfort and to decrease swelling and bruising. This can last up to 10-14 days but differs from patient to patient. It is normal for most individuals to have mild discomfort initially. This will get better! Everyone’s healing progress is different, but most people can plan to return to work or drive in a few days. When everything goes as planned, there is typically only one required visit to ART Vision around 10 days after the surgery to remove the sutures if needed. Patients often report a near-immediate improvement in their vision and confidence!
Why ART Vision?
Dr. Tendler and the team at ART Vision pride themselves on providing a full continuum of care throughout your surgical process and beyond. Because we offer a boutique-style clinic, you will encounter the same team members before, during, and after your surgery, adding to your comfort and putting you at ease. At ART Vision, Dr. Tendler is more than just the hands performing the surgery. She is the physician who will see you for your evaluation, create your surgical plan, perform your procedure, and see you for your post-surgical follow up care, creating a cohesive and comforting surgical experience.
Looking for answers?
If you are currently feeling frustrated with how excess skin and tissue around your eyes looks or how it is impacting your vision, give us a call at 605.306.2020.
