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Leading Facial Plastic Surgeon and Facial Nerve Specialist: Dr. Tessa Hadlock

While it’s commonly sought after for cosmetic enhancement, it’s also a valuable option for patients with functional issues due to sagging upper eyelid skin or the impact of facial palsy. Dr. Tessa Hadlock specializes in delivering this procedure as an in-office treatment with only local anesthetic injections. This minimally invasive approach cancels the need for general anesthesia or sedation, ensuring a comfortable experience for patients while achieving refined, natural-looking results that leave you looking refreshed and youthful.

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What is an Upper Blepharoplasty?

Our upper eyelid surgery in Boston addresses various concerns, including excess skin, drooping eyelids, puffiness, and wrinkles around the upper eye area. At the Hadlock Center for Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer this procedure as an in-office treatment, emphasizing patient comfort and convenience. The decision to perform the procedure without general anesthesia or sedation is rooted in Dr. Hadlock’s expertise and commitment to providing safe, effective, and comfortable care.

What Can I Expect During My Upper Eyelid Surgery?

The procedure begins with local anesthetic injections to numb the treatment area, ensuring you won’t feel any discomfort during the surgery. Once the anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Hadlock will make discreet incisions along the natural creases of your upper eyelids. These incisions are strategically placed to ensure minimal scarring and are virtually imperceptible once healed.

Next, Dr. Hadlock will remove excess skin and, if necessary, reposition or remove fat deposits to create a smoother and more youthful appearance. The muscles responsible for lifting the eyelids are typically left untouched, preserving your natural ability to open and close your eyes.

Am I a Candidate for Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Most patients will qualify to receive upper blepharoplasty, provided that they are healthy, non-smoking individuals with realistic expectations. In general, good candidates:

  • Have drooping skin in the upper lids
  • Experience vision impairment due to low-hanging lids
  • Are unhappy with their upper eyelid appearance
  • Struggle with a tired, angry, or sad facial expression due to sagging upper eyelid skin

Upper blepharoplasty is not recommended for those with dry eyes or other eye disorders. The surgery cannot correct crow’s feet or drooping eyebrows. However, our team can suggest other cosmetic procedures that can help you achieve your goals if upper eyelid surgery is not right for you.

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Discovering Dr. Hadlock's Favorite Procedures: A Glimpse Into Expertise and Passion!

What are the Benefits of Upper Eyelid Surgery in Boston?

The decision to perform upper eyelid surgery in-office, using only local anesthetic injections, reflects Dr. Hadlock’s dedication to providing a safe and comfortable experience for her patients. This in-office upper blepharoplasty in Boston offers several advantages:

Minimized Risk

Anesthesia and sedation carry inherent risks. Without the need for these agents, the likelihood of complications is significantly reduced, ensuring a safer procedure.

Quick Recovery

Patients who undergo upper eyelid surgery in our Boston office typically experience a quicker recovery compared to those who have surgery under general anesthesia. You can usually return to your daily activities within a few days.

Reduced Costs

In-office surgery tends to be more cost-effective, as there are no fees associated with anesthesia or a surgical facility. This makes upper eyelid surgery an accessible option for many patients.

Enhanced Precision

Performing the procedure in-office allows Dr. Hadlock to maintain clear communication with you throughout the surgery. This ensures she can address your concerns and achieve ultra-refined outcomes that align with your unique goals.

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Will I Have Natural Looking Results?

One of the primary goals of our upper eyelid surgery in Boston is to provide natural-looking results. Dr. Hadlock’s expertise in facial plastic surgery and artistic approach enables her to create a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance that enhances your natural beauty rather than drastically altering it. You’ll look like yourself, only more rested and youthful. The incisions placed in the procedure are meticulously closed, and any residual scarring is minimal and discreet.

Dr. Hadlock’s precision and commitment to achieving ultra-refined outcomes are evident in every step of the surgical process. Upper eyelid surgery at the Hadlock Center for Facial Plastic Surgery is a remarkable in-office procedure offering a safe, comfortable, cost-effective solution for patients seeking refreshed and natural-looking results.

Dr. Tessa Hadlock’s extensive experience, commitment to patient satisfaction, and dedication to providing state-of-the-art care make her the top choice for upper eyelid surgery in Boston. If you’re considering this procedure to address cosmetic concerns or functional issues with your upper eyelids, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hadlock and discover the transformative benefits of upper eyelid surgery.

What is Recovery Like After Upper Eyelid Surgery in Boston?

After surgery, you will receive detailed recovery instructions along with prescription pain medications. Patients who have received general anesthesia or IV sedation will need a friend or helper to drive them home and assist them for the first night after blepharoplasty. Vision may be slightly blurry at first due to eyelid sutures, which are removed after one week. Within around 2 weeks, patients can resume their normal activities and wear contact lenses again if needed.

Postoperative swelling can be relieved by using a cold compress or ice pack for the first few days after surgery. Dr. Hadlock may also prescribe an eye lubricant. Remember to wear dark glasses when outdoors to protect the eyes against harmful UV rays. Always avoid rubbing, touching, or massaging the eyes as they heal.

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Why Choose Hadlock Facial Plastic Surgery for Your Upper Blepharoplasty in Boston? 

The Hadlock Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Boston, MA, led by Dr. Tessa Hadlock, is a trusted destination for upper blepharoplasty. Dr. Hadlock brings a wealth of expertise to the procedure, ensuring precision and natural-looking results for her patients. With a strong emphasis on patient safety and aesthetic outcomes, the center is known for its exceptional care and skilled approach to facial surgery.

Credentials of Dr. Tessa Hadlock: 

  • Board-certified in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
  • Board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
  • Director of the Harvard International Facial Nerve Center for over 20 years
  • Consistently recognized as a “Top Doctor” in Boston for the last 15 years
  • Honored as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2009
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Upper Eyelid Surgery FAQ

How long will my upper eyelid surgery results last?

What risks are associated with upper eyelid surgery?

Are there any non-surgical alternatives?

Is upper eyelid surgery painful?

What should I avoid after upper eyelid surgery?

Will upper eyelid surgery leave visible scars?

How soon can I wear makeup after upper eyelid surgery?

How long will my upper eyelid surgery results last?

The longevity of cosmetic results varies based on factors such as age, health, lifestyle, and sun exposure. In general, patients can expect their upper eyelid surgery results to last from 5 to 7 years.

What risks are associated with upper eyelid surgery?

Complications are rare when choosing a double-board-certified plastic surgery like Dr. Hadlock. However, every cosmetic procedure comes with certain risks. For upper blepharoplasty, these include bleeding, infection, scarring, dry eyes, irritation, and temporary blurred vision. Some patients might also experience temporary sensitivity to light after surgery and difficulty closing and opening their eyes.

Are there any non-surgical alternatives?

Non-surgical treatment options such as laser therapy, dermal fillers, or neuromodulators can produce some minor improvements in the eye region by smoothing away lines and creases and improving the skin texture. However, these methods are generally insufficient when it comes to combating loose, drooping skin in the upper lids. Surgical blepharoplasty is the only way to dramatically improve the upper facial appearance for a brighter, friendlier, and more youthful-looking presentation.

Is upper eyelid surgery painful?

Upper blepharoplasty is performed under anesthesia or IV sedation, so you will be completely comfortable during the treatment process and you will not experience any pain. After surgery, you may encounter bruising, swelling, and soreness. These side effects are well-controlled with prescription pain medications. You can also apply a cold compress to the eyes along with lubricating ointment to help further diminish discomfort.

What should I avoid after upper eyelid surgery?

After upper blepharoplasty, it’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes, heavy lifting, or strenuous exercise for at least 2-3 weeks to allow the healing process to proceed smoothly. You should also avoid excessive sun exposure and smoking, as these can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.

Will upper eyelid surgery leave visible scars?

Scarring is a natural part of any surgery, but the incisions made during upper blepharoplasty are strategically placed within the natural creases of the eyelids. This helps to minimize visibility. Over time, the scars typically fade and become less noticeable, though they may never completely disappear. Proper post-operative care, including avoiding sun exposure, can help ensure optimal healing and reduce the appearance of scars.

How soon can I wear makeup after upper eyelid surgery?

Patients are typically advised to avoid wearing makeup on or near the eyes for at least 1-2 weeks after upper eyelid surgery to reduce the risk of infection and irritation. Once the incision sites have healed sufficiently and the swelling has diminished, makeup can be gradually reintroduced. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice on when it is safe to start applying makeup again.

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