Expert cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, eyebrows, and tear ducts
Oculoplastic surgery is a specialized subspecialty of ophthalmology that focuses on the delicate structures around the eyes. Dr. Levine completed a fellowship in oculoplastic surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine, providing him with advanced training in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures around the eyes and face.
Oculoplastic surgery requires an intimate understanding of the intricate anatomy around the eyes, including muscles, nerves, tear drainage pathways, and delicate skin. As both an ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Levine brings unique expertise in preserving and enhancing both the function and appearance of your eyes while prioritizing your vision and eye health.
Cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery to remove and reposition excess skin, fat, and muscle from upper or lower eyelids.
Surgical correction of drooping upper eyelids that can obstruct vision and create a tired appearance.
Correction of eyelids that turn outward (ectropion) or inward (entropion), causing irritation and tearing.
Surgical procedures to open blocked tear drainage pathways and resolve chronic tearing problems.
Elevation of drooping eyebrows to improve vision, reduce forehead wrinkles, and create a more youthful look.
These surgeries are medically necessary to correct conditions that impair vision or eye health. They are typically covered by insurance.
These elective surgeries enhance appearance and are typically not covered by insurance, though they may have functional benefits.
Immediate Recovery: Some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal. Cold compresses help reduce swelling. Most patients can perform light activities. Sutures may be absorbable or removed at follow-up.
Early Healing: Bruising begins to fade. Swelling continues to improve. Non-absorbable sutures are typically removed 5-7 days after surgery. Most patients can return to desk work. Avoid strenuous activity.
Visible Improvement: Significant reduction in swelling and bruising. Incision lines begin to fade. Most patients can resume normal activities including exercise. Results become more apparent.
Final Results: Incisions continue to fade and mature. Final results emerge as all swelling resolves. Scars become barely visible. Full healing is complete. Optimal cosmetic outcome achieved.
Oculoplastic surgery may be right for you if you experience:
When performed by an experienced oculoplastic surgeon, these procedures are designed to improve or maintain your vision, not compromise it. In fact, many procedures like ptosis repair and upper blepharoplasty actually improve vision by removing obstructions. Dr. Levine's dual expertise as an ophthalmologist ensures your vision and eye health remain the top priority.
Incisions for eyelid surgery are carefully placed in natural skin creases and folds, making them virtually invisible once healed. Upper eyelid incisions hide in the natural crease, while lower eyelid incisions can often be placed just below the lash line or inside the eyelid. Most patients find scars are barely noticeable within a few months.
Insurance typically covers medically necessary procedures that affect vision or eye health, such as ptosis repair that blocks vision, ectropion/entropion correction, tear duct surgery, and tumor removal. Purely cosmetic procedures are generally not covered. We'll help you navigate insurance coverage and provide documentation to support medical necessity when applicable.
Results from oculoplastic surgery are typically long-lasting. While aging continues naturally, most patients enjoy their results for 10-15 years or more. Functional repairs like ptosis correction and eyelid malposition surgery often provide permanent improvement. Individual results vary based on age, skin quality, and genetics.
Oculoplastic surgeons are ophthalmologists (eye doctors) who complete additional fellowship training specifically in eyelid, tear duct, and facial surgery around the eyes. This specialized training focuses exclusively on the delicate structures around the eyes. We understand the complex anatomy, prioritize vision preservation, and can address both cosmetic and functional concerns in one comprehensive approach.
Discover how oculoplastic surgery can improve your vision, comfort, and appearance. Dr. Levine will evaluate your concerns and recommend the best treatment approach for your individual needs.
Book Consultation Call (301) 977-2300