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Category: Eyelid Surgery

How Eyelid Surgery Improves Vision and Appearance
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids to enhance vision and appearance. The procedure addresses drooping eyelids, puffiness, and under-eye bags. It works for both functional and cosmetic issues.

Eyelid surgery is popular and widely adopted. In 2020, over 325,000 Americans underwent the procedure according to The American Society for Plastic Surgeons. This high number places blepharoplasty among the top five most-performed cosmetic surgeries. This trend highlights an increasing awareness and demand for both functional and aesthetic improvements, reflecting the surgery’s dual appeal for enhancing vision and appearance.

Whether addressing age-related changes or seeking a refreshed look, more people are choosing eyelid surgery to achieve their desired outcomes.

Eyelid Surgery for Vision Improvement

Over time, eyelid skin can sag, blocking your vision. This can happen with age or genetic factors. When the upper eyelids droop, they can obstruct your field of view, especially in the upper and peripheral areas. Eyelid surgery lifts the skin, improving vision by clearing the line of sight.

By effectively lifting the sagging skin, an eyelid lift improves vision, providing a clearer and unobstructed view for those affected by drooping eyelids.
- Improves Peripheral Vision: Excess skin can obstruct your view. Removing it restores normal vision.
- Restores Upper Vision: Drooping eyelids can reduce vision in the upper field. Surgery lifts the eyelids and clears this area.
- Prevent Further Vision Loss: If untreated, sagging eyelids can worsen. Surgery prevents this progression.
In some cases, insurance may cover the procedure if it’s deemed medically necessary due to vision impairment.

Eyelid Surgery for Aesthetic Enhancement

Eyelid surgery also improves the appearance of the eyes. Drooping or puffy eyelids can give a tired or older appearance. The procedure removes excess fat and tightens the skin, offering a more alert and youthful look.
- Reduces Puffiness: Fat removal smooths the under-eye area, reducing bags.
- Restores Youthful Look: Tightening the skin reduces sagging, creating a firmer appearance.
- Improves Symmetry: Surgery can balance uneven eyelids, enhancing facial symmetry.
Patients often see a dramatic difference in how their face looks, with more open, brighter eyes.

Eyelid Surgery Procedure

The procedure begins with a consultation with your plastic surgeon. During this visit, the surgeon will assess your eyelids and discuss your goals. They will create a personalized plan based on whether you need upper or lower eyelid surgery or both.

What the procedure entails:
- Upper Eyelid Surgery: The surgeon makes small incisions along the natural creases of your eyelids to remove excess skin, muscle, and fat.
- Lower Eyelid Surgery: The surgeon may make an incision just below the lower lash line or inside the lower eyelid. This allows for the removal of excess fat and skin or to tighten the area.
The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery time for eyelid surgery is relatively short compared to other surgical procedures. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Healing: You may experience swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort for the first few days. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication can help manage these symptoms.
- Stitches Removal: Stitches are usually removed within five to seven days after surgery.
- Return to Normal Activities: Most people return to work and normal activities within 10 to 14 days. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for about four to six weeks.
- Full Recovery: While initial healing occurs quickly, it may take six weeks to three months for the final results to fully appear as the skin and tissues continue to settle.
- Wear Sunglasses for Sun Protection: During the healing process, it is important to protect your eyes from sun exposure. Sunglasses not only shield the healing areas from harmful UV rays but also help prevent irritation from bright light and wind.
Follow-up visits with your plastic surgeon will ensure the healing process is going smoothly.

Eyelid Surgery in Richmond

With extensive experience in cosmetic procedures, Dr. Kitto offers expert plastic surgery in Richmond, ensuring personalized care and exceptional results for each patient.

To see the transformative effects of eyelid surgery, be sure to view the before and after photos of Dr. Kitto’s patients, available on her website, showcasing her skill and dedication to achieving exceptional results.

If you are considering eyelid surgery in Richmond, contact Kitto Plastic Surgery for a consultation by calling (804) 294-1777.
December 5, 2024
Eyelid Surgery or Brow lift: Which one is right for you?
The eyes and forehead are the first places people notice saggy skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. They give the face an older and tired look. In some cases, the saggy skin of the eyelids can interfere with your vision. If you are not happy with the way your eye area and upper face look, then you are probably considering eyelid surgery or a brow lift procedure.

At Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond VA, we perform both eyelid and brow lift surgeries. But, these procedures have their own uses and benefits. Check out their unique features below to find the treatment that can best accommodate your needs.

What to Expect With Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a cosmetic procedure designed to refresh the appearance of aging, tired-looking eyes. It is a highly individualized treatment that can be performed for reconstructive or cosmetic reasons, often both.

Patients can choose upper and lower eyelid surgery Richmond VA to decrease the bagginess and remove the excess skin. This surgery takes about 2 hours. If it is a procedure done only on the lower lid or just the upper lid, then it can take about 1 hour.

If you want larger and more attractive eyes, then you might consider a double eyelid surgery Richmond VA. Double eyelid surgery, also known as Asian blepharoplasty, is a procedure that can give you almond-shaped eyes with a more symmetric and larger appearance. The surgery alters the outer and inner corners of the eye to enhance the width of the eyes.

Benefits of Eyelid Surgery

If your goal is to improve the appearance of the lower eyelids, upper eyelids, or both, then eyelid surgery can be a practical choice. With upper and lower eyelid surgery Richmond VA, you can make your eyes appear more alert and youthful.

This treatment can correct:
- Droopy eyelids
- Puffy bags under the eyes
- Hooded eyes
- Puffiness in the upper eyelids
- Loose skin hanging from the upper eyelids
- Extra skin that hides the natural fold of the upper eyelid
- Fine wrinkles and excess skin on the lower eyelid
What to Expect With Brow Lift Surgery

With old age, the brows tend to move down. And since the soft tissues stretch out, they lose their ability to get back into place, thus shortening the distances between the eyelashes and eyebrows. A brow lift is a cosmetic procedure that raises eyebrows and rejuvenates the forehead.

Different types of brow lift procedures are available. That includes a direct brow lift, coronal brow lift, and endoscopic brow lift surgery. A direct brow lift can be a useful procedure for individuals who have baldness or receding hair. Endoscopic brow lift surgery involves the use of an endoscope. This procedure has minimal and well-hidden scars. Our experts work with multiple internal structures of the forehead to give the brows a more lifted look. A coronal brow lift is an older procedure that’s less common than the other procedure types. It can raise the internal structure of the brow and treat the lines between the brows.

At Richmond plastic surgery, our surgeons offer the best quality experience. How long the brow lift procedure lasts depends on the type of surgery you get. Sometimes it can last longer if you are getting complementary procedures. Talk with our experts at west end plastic surgery to find the treatment that can suit your goals.

Benefits of Brow Lift Surgery

A brow lift procedure can address multiple problems with the eyebrows. It tightens the skin and helps open up the eyes. This is a popular treatment for patients who have misshapen eyebrows because of sagging.

This treatment can correct:
- Wrinkles or creases on the forehead
- Hooded eyes (saggy eyebrows)
- Frown lines (glabellar lines)
- The appearance of a high forehead (depending on the placement of the incision)
Get Eyelid or Brow Lift at Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA

While an eyelid surgery focuses only on the eyelids, a brow lift can help smooth the forehead and lift the eyebrows. Blepharoplasty can be a solid choice for fixing saggy eyelids and getting a more refreshed and rejuvenated look. A brow lift is designed to fix the sagging or low brows, thus decreasing the signs of aging, such as the “worn-out” look. Regardless of what procedure you go for, at Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond VA, you can get a specialized treatment that can give you the results you need.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537078/

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/treatments/eyelid-surgery

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/brow-lift/about/pac-20393257
January 6, 2023
The Ultimate Guide To Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty

As we age, the muscles around our eyelids get weaker, leading to sagging excess skin and fat around the upper and lower eyelid. The result is under-eye bags and smaller-looking eyes giving the face an aged, tired look. In addition to making our faces look aged, sagging eyelids also impair sight and can make it difficult to perform tasks that require good vision. Eyelids can be restored to a more youthful appearance by performing blepharoplasty to give them a lift and restore a youthful appearance as well as correct sight problems.

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is an operation performed by a plastic surgeon to correct defects in the eyelids. It is also performed to aesthetically modify the eye region of the face and sometimes to help with sight complications. The procedure corrects typical signs of aging affecting the eyes and the skin around them. These signs of aging include drooping eyelids, fatty deposits that make eyes look puffy, sagging or bags, and wrinkles under the eyes. This type of surgery will tighten and lift the skin to make the eyes appear more open as well as reduce excess fat.

Patients can opt for upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both.

Who Should Have a Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a good solution for those who are uncomfortable with their drooping eyelids, bags under the eyes, and fat deposits that cause their faces to appear aged and tired. If you are interested in this surgery you should be in the good physical condition and not have any eyesight problems.

Blepharoplasty Techniques

There are many different blepharoplasty techniques. Your surgeon should be able to come up with a customized solution for your particular problem by selecting a technique that is suited to your individual needs.

Upper blepharoplasty, which is surgery of the upper eyelid, is done by incisions to remove excess skin and fat. A stitch is used to bring the skin together to create an eyelid crease.

For lower eyelid surgery, incisions are made in the lower eyelid and the surgeon removes excess skin and fat. The skin is then sewn back together to create a more refined, firmer look.

If you would like guidance in deciding on either upper blepharoplasty surgery in Richmond, VA, or lower blepharoplasty in Richmond, VA, contact us for more information or continue reading our guide.

How Do You Prepare For A Blepharoplasty?

Before scheduling blepharoplasty, you will meet with a healthcare provider at our Richmond plastic surgery clinic. This healthcare provider could be a plastic surgeon, an eye specialist, or a plastic surgeon specializing in surgery around the eye area. They will take your medical history and discuss your goals and expectations from the surgery. This information will help to decide your suitability for the procedure. When scheduling, staff will do a physical exam and eye tests to take measurements, check for injuries and test peripheral vision.

What To Expect During The Procedure

The first step is anesthesia. The surgeon will decide whether to put you on general anesthesia or intravenous sedation based on consultation data. An incision site is then chosen where the resulting scar can be hidden and blended into the natural eye contours. For upper eyelid blepharoplasty, the incision is made in the eyelid crease; for the lower eyelid, the incision is made in the lash line or inside the eyelid. Fat deposits are then repositioned, muscles tightened and the extra skin is removed. The third step is closing the incisions by stitching or skin glue.

What to Expect After The Procedure

Blepharoplasty is minimally invasive and is performed as an outpatient procedure. You will spend some time in the recovery room being monitored for complications. You will then continue healing at home. Expect swelling, bruising, discomfort, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Use the medications that your surgeon will provide for pain and ward off infections. A cool compress should help with the swelling.

Results are visible 7-14 days after your surgery. Bruising and swelling will lessen within two weeks and scars could take a few months to fade.

Contact Us

Are you considering upper and lower eyelid surgery in Richmond, VA? Contact us at our Kitto plastic surgery practice for a consultation.

December 26, 2022
Which Is Better—Brow Lift Or Blepharoplasty?

As we age, areas of our face sag and droop, causing wrinkles, fine lines, under-eye bags, and more. A common area of concern for individuals is their eyes. However, there are many ways to address these concerns of appearing tired, sad, and angry. An upper blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or an eyebrow lift surgery can help make your eyes appear more youthful and awake. At Kitto Plastic Surgery, we offer both blepharoplasty and eyebrow lift surgeries, but each has its specific uses, and the one that is best for you will vary. Read more to determine which is right for you.

What is an Eye Brow Lift Surgery?

An eyebrow lift surgery is performed to remove excess fat and skin below the eyebrow. As we age, our brows tend to droop—creating a crease on the upper eyelid and, in some cases, obstructing our view. This drooping can cause you to appear tired, angry, or sad and force you to raise your eyebrows more frequently. When you lift your eyebrows regularly, your forehead and the area between your eyebrows can wrinkle and crease—creating an older appearance.

The goal of an eyebrow lift is to remove the excess skin causing these problems and give you a younger, more awake look. To do this, an incision is made directly below the eyebrow’s tail, and a strip of skin and fat is removed. Then, the surgeon will lift skin from the upper eyelid area and join it together under the eyebrow. This is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in-office with local anesthesia.

What is an Upper Blepharoplasty?

In contrast to an eyebrow lift, an upper blepharoplasty is used to lift the upper eyelid. Similar to our eyebrows, as we age, our eyelids can droop and sag, causing us to appear tired and occasionally obstruct our vision. With an upper eyelid surgery, the skin of the upper eyelid is removed in a thin line on the eyelid. The remaining skin is then brought back together to create an eyelid crease. The result is a more awake and youthful eye appearance.

Upper Blepharoplasty vs. Eyebrow Lift Surgery

As you can see, both an eyebrow lift and an upper blepharoplasty are used to treat tired, aging, and drooping eye appearances. However, the main difference between the two is the actual skin causing the problem. Those who proceed to get an upper blepharoplasty are actually struggling with drooping eyelid skin instead of drooping eyebrow skin. While those who get an eyebrow lift were struggling with eyebrow sagging.

In some cases, individuals struggling with their eye appearance actually are having problems with both their eyelid and their eyebrow. In these cases, an upper blepharoplasty and an eyebrow lift are appropriate. A board-certified plastic surgeon should be able to tell you which one is causing the problem and address it appropriately.

Kitto Plastic Surgery—Offering Eyebrow Lifts and Blepharoplasty in Richmond, VA

Are you struggling with appearing tired, having an obstructed view, or drooping eyes due to your eyebrow or upper eyelid? Dr. Kitto may be able to help. Dr. Kitto is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in Oculoplastic Surgery and Facial Aesthetic Surgery. After carefully looking at your face and eye area, Dr. Kitto can accurately determine what is causing your problem and formulate a plan to fix it. She has helped numerous individuals gain confidence through her blepharoplasty and eyebrow lift surgery in Richmond, VA.

Contact us to set up a consultation today! If you’re considering plastic surgery in Richmond, VA, Dr. Kitto’s expertise can provide the solution you’re seeking.

September 12, 2022
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Blepharoplasty?

Individuals looking to achieve a brighter, younger, and smoother eye appearance can find the result they are looking for in a blepharoplasty. This surgical procedure is performed on the upper and lower eyelids in an effort to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, eliminate under-eye bags, and re-shape the eyes. Because this surgery is performed in a sensitive area, a careful recovery is required. But how long exactly does it take to recover from a blepharoplasty? At Kitto Plastic Surgery, we perform blepharoplasties in Richmond, VA, so we understand the recovery process. Allow us to walk you through it and ensure you know what to expect.
What is a Blepharoplasty?

As we age, our skin loses its elasticity. The loss of elasticity can cause wrinkles and fine lines. An area of our face that is particularly susceptible to this loss of elasticity is the eyes. A blepharoplasty is an eyelid surgery that is used to reduce signs of aging, change the appearance of the eye, or change the eye shape. People looking to get eyelid surgery can have the procedure performed on both their upper and lower eyelids or on just the lower or just the upper eyelids.

Blepharoplasty Basics

If you are interested in blepharoplasty, there are a few things you need to know prior to seeking out the surgery. Because this procedure is considered cosmetic, it is not covered by most health insurance companies. As such, most individuals have to pay for it out of their own pocket. A typical eyelid surgery cost in Richmond, VA is between $2,000 and $5,000, with the average being $4,000.

Because this procedure can be costly, it is important that you know what to expect prior to undergoing the surgery. If you are looking for a particular appearance, check out the plastic surgeon’s eyelid surgery before and after pictures. This will give you an idea of the results you can expect.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from an Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery?

Your eyes are very sensitive and delicate. Any surgical procedure around them comes with a list of possible side effects and risks. In general, it takes about a week or two to recover from an upper and lower eyelid surgery. After 5-7 days post-operation, any stitches or sutures should be removed. At around 7-10 days post-op, you are free to use makeup around your eyes. After two weeks, you should be ready to go out with your results, and 6 months after surgery, you can expect any redness or puffiness to be completely gone.

Can I Speed Up My Recovery?

The best way to properly recover from eyelid surgery is to follow the aftercare instructions. The recovery process after a blepharoplasty should be relatively easy and quick, but if you are looking to speed up your recovery the best way to do that is by preparing beforehand. By following a healthy lifestyle prior to your surgery, your body will be more prepared to fight off any possible infections and recover quicker. This includes eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. After your surgery, it is critical that you continue to abide by this healthy lifestyle and follow the aftercare instructions.

Where to Get Eyelid Surgery in Richmond, VA

Ready to discover a more youthful, lifted, smooth, and bright appearance? Work with Dr. Kitto to achieve this look. If you are considering getting eyelid surgery in Richmond, Virginia, Kitto Plastic Surgery is the premier choice. Dr. Kitto is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in oculoplastic surgery and eyelid rejuvenation. With her attention to detail, Dr. Kitto is able to provide natural results that seamlessly blend into the surrounding eye area. If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto or wish to schedule a consultation, call us today at 804-294-1777 or schedule online. Additionally, if you’re interested in plastic surgery in Richmond, VA, our practice offers a wide range of cosmetic procedures to enhance your appearance.

July 6, 2022
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost in Richmond Virginia?

Eyelid surgery is an oculoplastic procedure that aims to lift, smooth, and reduce the appearance of aging around the eyes. This procedure is not covered by most health insurance providers, so many people are interested in knowing the cost before going into the surgery. As a board-certified plastic surgeon located in Richmond, Virginia Dr. Kitto has performed a variety of eyelid surgeries and understands the importance of knowing the cost prior to the procedure. This blog aims to reveal some of the reasons people choose to get eyelid surgery and the average cost of the procedure.

What Is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can be used to reduce signs of aging around the eye, change the appearance of the eye, or change the shape of the eye. This surgery can address concerns of both the upper and lower eyelid, or it can address concerns with each individually.

How Does It Work?

Upper and lower eyelid surgery can remove any excess skin, lift under-eye bags, or reduce fat pockets that droop in the eye. An upper blepharoplasty removes the excess skin on the upper eyelid and brings together the remaining skin to achieve a flawless eyelid appearance. Similarly, a lower blepharoplasty removes excess fat or skin from the lower eyelid and lifts the remaining skin to create a lifted, smooth appearance.

What Are The Benefits?

As you age, your skin begins to lose its elasticity. This causes drooping or sagging of the skin as well as wrinkles and fine lines. Eyelid surgery can address concerns and provide you with a more youthful appearance.

Reduce Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Upper and lower eyelids develop wrinkles as you age. With eyelid surgery, excess skin is cut away which allows for the fine lines and wrinkles to be pulled taut. This reduces the appearance of these flaws.

Elimination of Under-Eye Bags

Similar to wrinkles and fine lines, excess fat deposits located on the lower eyelid can create under-eye bags. These bags can cause you to look tired and are a predominant sign of aging. With lower eyelid surgery, these under-eye bags are eliminated or significantly reduced.

Youthful Appearance

As mentioned above, excess skin and fat can heighten the effects of wrinkles, fine lines, under-eye bags, etc. When you get eyelid surgery, these aging effects are reduced and help to create a more youthful look. In addition, when you eliminate these flaws, your eyes appear more awake and aware, which also contributes to a younger appearance.

Eyelid Surgery Before and After

Many people who pursue eyelid surgery want to see visuals of the results they can expect. At Kitto Plastic Surgery, we have compiled visuals of our many clients where you can see the results of eyelid surgery before and after. In general, patients who undergo this surgery can expect to see reduced puffiness, less droopiness, smaller under-eye bags, decreased sagging, reduction of fat deposits, and an overall more youthful, natural appearance.

How much does an Eyelid Surgery Cost in Richmond Virginia?

Eyelid surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and because of this, it is not covered by health insurance. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of cosmetic eyelid surgery is $4,120. This cost does not include the cost of anesthesia, operating room costs, or other expenses associated with the surgery. In addition, the eyelid surgery cost can be more or less than the average based on the location and surgeon. In general, eyelid surgery in Richmond, Virginia will fall near the average range.

Eyelid Surgery in Richmond Virginia

If you are considering getting eyelid surgery in the Richmond, Virginia area, Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA is the premier choice. Dr. Kitto is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in oculoplastic surgery and eyelid rejuvenation. Dr. Kitto aims to provide natural results that seamlessly blend into the surrounding eye area. When you need a gentle touch with a keen eye for detail Dr. Kitto is the surgeon for you. If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto or wish to schedule a consultation, call us today at 804-294-1777 or schedule online.

May 6, 2022
Upper and Lower Eyelid surgery – Can it be performed simultaneously?
Eyes are often the first thing that gets noticed and are a prominent feature. In addition to helping us communicate through expressions, our eyes allow us to see the world and connect with others. However, the natural aging process, environmental factors, genetics, and more can all take their toll on the appearance of our eyelids.
Eyelid surgery is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed today and there are many benefits to combining both upper and lower surgery into the same procedure.

If you are considering eyelid surgery in Richmond, VA, you should learn more about the procedure, its benefits, and recovery time from an expert. Dr. Kitto is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience completing eyelid surgery, she can help customize your treatment plan to help you reach your cosmetic and functional goals.

What is eyelid surgery?

The delicate skin around the eyes is often the first area to show visible signs of aging. Over time, the tone, texture, muscles, and shape of the skin around our eyes can change. This can be due to genetics and face shape or can be caused by a loss of volume and elasticity in the skin.

Upper and lower eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids. The procedure can correct the appearance of thin, wrinkled, or loose skin, both for aesthetics and to correct vision issues.

If eyelid skin begins to droop, it can easily begin to impact vision and the eyelid surgery may be more functional than cosmetic.

Upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, targets the skin in the upper eye area. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat that falls over the natural crease in the eyelid, which often creates a hooded eye appearance.

As we age, our facial skin loses elasticity, so removing loose skin can improve the overall appearance of the eye by creating a younger look.

To complete the upper eye surgery, Dr. Kitto places an incision along the natural crease in the eyelid and then removes the excess skin and tissue that is causing either functional or aesthetic concern.

On the other hand, lower eyelid surgery, or lower blepharoplasty, really focuses on reducing the appearance of puffiness from under the eye. Aging skin can impact the contour of the eyelid and give the appearance of droopy skin or heavy undereye bags.

A lower lid surgery normally involves an incision just below the lower lash line. Excess skin and fat is then removed and the skin is lifted and tightened to give a smoother and more youthful appearance.

Both upper and lower eyelid surgery require general anesthesia and the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Patients undergoing the procedure are released the same day, but will need someone to drive them home and stay with them for at least 24 hours post-procedure.

Some swelling and bruising are normal post-op symptoms and should subside within a couple of weeks. Typically, results from eyelid surgery are instantly noticeable and can last for several years

What are the benefits of undergoing upper & lower eyelid surgery simultaneously?

Choosing to have an upper or lower eyelid surgery can give you stunning results towards your goals. Both provide immediate improvement to the appearance of eyes and can last for several years.

Often, surgeons will recommend having both upper and lower eyelid surgery done simultaneously. There are several benefits to this treatment path.
- Having both procedures completed in one surgery reduces the need to go under anesthesia twice and eliminates the need for two operating room appointments, saving time and money.
- Combining the procedures also reduces preparation time and recovery time. One surgery means one recovery period. This simultaneous recovery can also help give eyes a balanced appearance as the healing takes place together.
If you are considering getting upper and lower eyelid surgery either separately or simultaneously, take a look at Dr. Kitto’s before and after gallery to see some of the results you can expect.

Whether you are looking to eliminate puffiness, remove a hooded eye appearance, or lift skin that may be impairing vision, an eyelid surgery near you in Richmond, VA may be the best choice to reach your goals.

If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto, or wish to schedule a online consultation, call us today at 804.294.1777.
February 2, 2022
EYELID SURGERY: Why it is the most demanding & popular cosmetic procedure.

Whether it’s through aging, the slowdown of collagen production, or genetics, eyelids can begin showing our age by drooping or sagging. Eyelid skin is thinner than other areas of the face, so these changes tend to be more noticeable sooner.
In addition to making us look older, drooping eyelids can impact vision and even impede daily tasks and activities. You don’t have to live with the signs or symptoms of aging skin, though.

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of the most common and in demand cosmetic procedures and continues to grow in popularity!

A blepharoplasty often called an upper and lower eyelid surgery, is an outpatient procedure that removes excess fat, skin, and muscle that can gather above and below the eye. It doesn’t require overnight stays in a hospital, but you will receive specific after care instructions. Most patients can return to normal daily activities including strenuous exercise within 1-2 weeks.

Dr. Kitto is a leading plastic surgeon in Richmond, VA with years of experience completing eyelid surgery, she can help customize your treatment plan to see results from this in-demand procedure!

If you have been considering a blepharoplasty, here are four reasons why the popular procedure may be right for you:

1. Results are very customized.
If you take a look at eyelid surgery before and after photos, you’ll notice that each client has a very unique result. Every face is different, and your procedure will be customized to you.

To achieve targeted results based on your personal goals, your plastic surgeon will determine whether you should have upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery or double eyelid surgery.

2. The visual impact is substantial.
Eyes are often one of the first features that our companions notice and the appearance of sagging brows, under eye bags, and drooping eyelids can create an older appearance.

As our faces age, the thin skin around the eye loses the ability to bounce back through our expressions. This creates a loose appearance and showcases fine lines and wrinkles. Cosmetic eyelid surgery helps to alleviate these concerns – the removal of excess tissue can create a stunning before and after.

3. Vision obstacles can be addressed.
The deterioration of skin around the eyes can also create vision problems, such as a decrease in peripheral vision. Functional eyelid surgery can address these concerns.

By removing excess tissue, upper and lower eyelid surgery restores the function of the eye while also providing a more open and smooth appearance.

4. Eyelid surgery is universally helpful.
Since our faces show our age sooner than we’d like, almost everyone is a good candidate for an eyelid surgery. Both men and women have enjoyed stunning results from the procedure.

As long as you are in overall good health and do not have any serious eye conditions, the Kitto Plastic Surgery team can assist you with your eyelid goals.

Whether you are looking to brighten a tired appearance, minimize under eye dark circles or “bags”, or lift skin that may be impairing vision, an eyelid surgery near you in Richmond, VA may be the best choice to reach your goals.

If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto, or wish to schedule a online consultation, call us today at 804.294.1777.

December 28, 2021
Now treat your droopy eyelids and look years younger

Age, like gravity, tends to pull things down. One keeps our feet planted to the ground, the other affects our body’s natural elasticity, causing saggy skin, droopy eyelids, and loosening over time. For many, the areas most impacted by this effect are eyelids. While we can’t bring these natural influences to a screeching halt, eyelid surgery—or blepharoplasty—is a perfectly valid way to sidestep those side effects and rejuvenate your skin.
Interested in eyelid surgery or another cosmetic procedure? Get in touch with our office today to schedule a personalized consultation

What Is a Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, a cosmetic procedure that is performed to improve the appearance of droopy eyelids. Don’t be fooled by the term “cosmetic procedure.” While this surgery can be performed for aesthetic purposes, blepharoplasty is also used to help thousands of people see clearly. For these reasons, the procedure is commonly broken into two categories: functional and cosmetic.

Functional

Over time, droopy eyelids can block a patient’s sight, including their peripheral vision. A functional blepharoplasty is used to repair or remove the excess eyelid skin that impairs a patient’s vision.

Cosmetic

Where functional eyelid surgeries correct a medical complication, cosmetic eyelid surgeries are performed for primarily aesthetic reasons—typically to provide patients with a younger appearance.

How Does Blepharoplasty Differ From Other Procedures?

Blepharoplasty is one of many procedures that can give the gift of a more youthful appearance, so it’s no surprise that there’s some confusion when it comes to this surgery and others. People may occasionally confuse blepharoplasty with a brow lift, or even with a facelift. The three surgeries are quite different, sharing minimal similarities.

Facelifts

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that repairs the visible signs of aging in and around the face, including the neck. This surgery tackles more than just the skin around your eyes, targeting the forehead, cheeks, jawline, and neck instead.

Brow Lifts

A brow lift is used to reduce the appearance or prominence of wrinkles in the forehead and raise sagging brows that may be “leaning” over the eyelid.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

You’ll be happy to know that blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure, meaning you’re in and out in the same day. The surgery itself only takes a few hours, if that, but you’ll be monitored before and after to ensure success.

As we mentioned earlier, eyelid surgery removes excess skin, fat, and muscle that gathers above and below the eyelid, resulting in sagging brows, drooping lids, and under-eye bags. While genetics can cause these effects in anyone, they are primarily brought on by age.

This procedure can be performed on upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both—it all depends on what you’re in need of and the treatment plan developed by the surgeon.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery Tips & Risks

There are inherent risks associated with any surgery. Those risks can be minimized by working with a board-certified plastic surgeon and following post-operative instructions carefully.

To that end, here are a few general risks and eyelid surgery recovery tips to help you better understand the blepharoplasty process:

Risks

Typical complications include asymmetry, blurred vision, scarring, and numbness. Following pre-operative instructions and maintaining good relative health can help you avoid some of the rarer complications. If you notice any side effects outside the norm, contact your surgeon immediately.

Recovery

Good things come with time. While you may see bruising and swelling right after surgery, those side effects should dissipate within two weeks. We recommend ice packs to help numb the pain and swelling that immediately follows surgery. After a few days, a moist, warm towel may be used to help alleviate bruising.

Most people return to normal activity about a week after eyelid surgery, but it may take weeks or months for your new appearance to come into focus. In the meantime, avoid rubbing your eyes, remember to use your prescriptions in full, and sleep at an incline for a few days following your procedure. Follow these eyelid surgery recovery tips to return to good health in next to no time.

Ready to revitalize your look? Call us at 804-294-1777 or Schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeons today to learn more about the benefits of blepharoplasty.

October 19, 2021
How eyelid surgery can help you

How eyelid surgery can help you

There are a number of things that can cause your skin to droop. As you age, the production of collagen and elastin begins to slow, meaning your skin won’t be as “bouncy” as it once was. Without that extra support, it starts to droop and sag.

Other factors that can affect your skin

Age isn’t the only factor involved. Your genetics can be partially to blame. And external elements such as sun and wind damage, pollution and cigarette smoke can cause your skin to lose elastin, as well as making it look dull and lifeless.

The eyes have it

Your eyelids are particularly sensitive to damage because the skin is so delicate and thin. As your eyelids stretch, the muscles supporting them also can become weak, allowing extra fat to gather above and below your eyelids. This can cause sagging eyebrows, droopy upper eyelids, and “bags” under your eyes.

How you look and how you see

Even if you are still chronologically young, drooping eyelids can make you appear much older than you are and give the appearance that you are constantly tired. It can also affect your peripheral vision if the lids start to sag into your line of site, especially at the corners of your eyes.

Eyelid surgery in Richmond, Virginia

There is a procedure called blepharoplasty where a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Inzhili K. Kitto can expertly remove excess skin and fat from your eyelids to make you appear younger and more alert. It can also aid in restoring any lost peripheral vision you may be encountering.

How much does a procedure like that cost?

According to 2019 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average blepharoplasty cost is $3,282. This is a national average, so the cost of your procedure may vary based on the cost of living in your area, your surgeon’s level of expertise, and other factors.

Blepharoplasty before and after

Eye surgery before and after information will help you to better prepare for your surgery and eyelid surgery recovery. For example, you will be directed by your doctor to stop taking all medications associated with excess bleeding.

These medications can include warfarin, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen sodium (Aleve), naproxen, and other types of medications or herbal supplements.

Before the procedure

Before the procedure, your surgeon will inject a numbing medication into the area(s) to be treated. You may also be given intravenous medication to help you stay relaxed during the surgery. The procedure can normally be done as outpatient surgery, so you will be able to return home shortly after it has been completed.

After the procedure

You will be monitored in a recovery room to make sure there are no complications. If no complications present, you will be able to leave shortly after to fully recover at home.

You may notice slightly blurred vision if lubricating ointment as applied to your eyes. You may also experience watering eyes, sensitivity to light, double vision, swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for your eyes following the surgery, including using ice packs to help with the pain and swelling, wearing sunglasses to help with light sensitivity and avoiding strenuous activities for a week following the surgery.

Getting started

When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Kitto, she will speak with you about your medical history and will listen to what you would like to achieve with your blepharoplasty surgery. She will also perform a medical exam, a vision exam, and will take several pictures of your eyes for reference.

Dr. Kitto will also provide you with feedback on the surgery she would like to perform to help you achieve the results you want. She will gladly address any questions or concerns you have about the surgery itself, what you should do after the surgery for optimal results and when you should be able to return to normal activities.

Schedule your consultation today

You can schedule your consultation by visiting Dr. Kitto’s Contact page. Simply complete and submit the online form and her office will contact you shortly afterward to choose the best date and time for you to come by her office and meet in person.

March 11, 2021