Eyelid Surgery & Eyebrow Surgery

Aesthetic & Functional Procedures


As we age, the delicate skin around the eyes may begin to sag and wrinkle. Excess skin and fat under the eyes can cause puffiness, giving you a tired and aged appearance. In more extreme cases, sagging upper eyelid skin can even impair vision.  

As a board-certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologist with extensive training and experience in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Ethan Tittler has been performing cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery for over two decades. He customizes these services to reflect each patient’s unique anatomy, skin condition, aesthetic concerns, and lifestyle – an approach that consistently delivers excellent results.

For Natural-Looking & More Youthful Eyes


Dr. Tittler performs both upper and lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and can sculpt or re-drape the fat from puffy upper and lower eyelids for a more rested and youthful appearance.  

Dr. Tittler can also perform a brow lift or mid-facelift to enhance the results of the eyelid surgery, if desired. He is adept at delivering results that appear completely natural. After surgery, his patients look like more youthful and attractive versions of themselves, not like those who have had “work done.”

Functional Eyelid & Eyebrow Surgery


A doctor marking a woman's eyelids for eyelid surgery in Stockton, CADr. Tittler performs functional eyelid and eyebrow surgeries to improve vision that is obscured due to the following conditions:

  • Allergies or thyroid disorders
  • Weakened eyelid, eye muscle, or facial muscle
  • Eyelid rotation or eyelash abnormalities
  • Excessive eyelid skin
  • Drooping eyelids, eyebrows, or face
  • Eyelid and facial lumps, bumps, or cancers

How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed?


On the upper eyelid, a small incision is made in the natural crease. This conceals any visible scarring. Muscles are tightened as needed, fat is repositioned, and excess skin is trimmed. Unless fat is abundant, it is repositioned rather than removed. We are careful when it comes to eliminating fat, as the goal is a completely natural-looking rejuvenation.

On the lower eyelid, we place the incision just below the lower eyelash or sometimes within the inside of the eyelid. This depends on the patient’s individual characteristics. Additional skin may be removed on the lower eyelid if it is causing puffiness and excessive wrinkling beneath the eye.

How Is Eyebrow Surgery Performed?


Dr. Tittler offers various options for these surgeries and tailors the technique used to address your unique issues. For example, a “temporal brow lift” targets more sagging on the outer half of the brow. On the other hand, a “central brow lift” moves the focus to the droop of the inner brows. 

If possible, we also strive to use endoscopic methods for all surgeries. This approach creates far less scarring and makes for an easier recovery.

Eyelid Surgery Candidates


Almost everyone over the age of 40 could benefit from blepharoplasty. This is especially true for those living around Stockton and Modesto, thanks to our endlessly sunny skies.

Due to constant exposure to the sun and environmental factors, the eyelids and surrounding tissues can age significantly. Anyone with droopy, saggy eyelids and bags under their eyes may want to consider the surgery.

Brow Lift Candidates


A doctor lifting a woman's brow before eyebrow surgery in Modesto, CAMost people have some degree of sagging across the brows and forehead; that’s just a reality of aging. However, for some, sagging is so extreme that it impairs their field of vision. Most of our Central Valley brow lift patients are between 45 and 60 years old.

There’s a simple way to see if a brow lift could help with that perpetually tired countenance. Stand in front of a mirror and place the lower palms of each hand just above your eyebrows on each side of your head. Slightly pull the palms outward and upward, and you’ll see how a brow lift will reposition your sagging skin and tissues.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery


When you return home after your surgery, your eyelids will be covered with light gauze.

We will provide you with a cold compress and eyedrops to keep your eyes moist. If you’re diligent about using the compress, it can significantly reduce your swelling and bruising. Pain is not severe and can usually be handled with over-the-counter pain medication.

After one week, your stitches will be removed. You may experience some on-again, off-again light swelling, but this usually resolves within a few weeks. You can generally return to work in just 3-5 days.

Brow Lift Recovery


Your recovery will depend on the type of brow lift you have undergone. Regardless of the technique, though, you can expect swelling and bruising, which may spread to your cheeks and around your eyes. While unpleasant, this should run its course in a week to 10 days. For the first two or three days after your surgery, you’ll need to keep your head elevated, even while sleeping.

Traditional brow lifts involve more numbness and discomfort along the incision. Initial numbness will be replaced by itching that can last up to six months. Often, the hair near the incision will fall out or become thin, but normal hair growth should return within a few weeks or months.

Endoscopic brow lifts may also cause some numbness due to tissue manipulation, but there is far less itching compared to a traditional lift. That’s another reason we use this method whenever possible. 

Most patients can return to work within 10 days, but they should avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for around a month. You need to try and keep your blood pressure from elevating in the forehead area.

Why Choose Central Valley Eye Center for Eyelid or Eyebrow Surgery?


Central Valley Eye Center is the only general ophthalmology practice in the San Joaquin Valley with an all-fellowship-trained, board-certified team, including specialists like Dr. Ethan Tittler, who trained in oculoplastic and orbital surgery at Stanford.

Our physicians are dedicated to improving life through sight and bring advanced knowledge to every procedure, including eyelid and eyebrow surgery. We also teach and contribute to leading ophthalmic resources, ensuring our patients benefit from the latest techniques.

FAQs


Is It Possible to Have Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery at the Same Time?

A woman with pre-surgery markings for eyelid surgery.Yes, upper and lower eyelid surgery can be performed during the same procedure. Many patients choose this option to address issues like drooping upper lids and puffy under-eye bags simultaneously.

When performed together, these surgeries can produce a more balanced and refreshed appearance. They also streamline the healing process for those looking to improve the look of both eyelid areas. During your consultation, Dr. Tittler will evaluate your anatomy, goals, and health history to determine if this approach is right for you. 

What Should I Avoid Before Undergoing Eyelid or Eyebrow Surgery?

In the days leading up to eyelid or eyebrow surgery, patients are typically advised to:

  • Stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil (unless otherwise directed by their physician).
  • Avoid smoking, as it can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
  • Limit or stop alcohol consumption, as it can increase bleeding risk and impede recovery.
  • Pause certain skincare products or treatments, such as chemical peels, laser therapies, and retinoids.

Patients must also disclose their full medical history and follow all preoperative instructions. This helps to ensure a smoother procedure and a faster recovery.

Are There Any Risks or Complications Associated With Eyelid or Eyebrow Surgery?

Portrait of 50 year old woman looking at camera, lifting her forehead wrinkles with guidelines showing lifting directionAs with any surgical procedure, eyelid and eyebrow surgeries carry potential risks. Common side effects include:

  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Temporary discomfort

Less common but possible complications include:

  • Infection
  • Dry eyes
  • Asymmetry
  • Visible scarring
  • Changes in eyelid or brow position

In rare cases, issues such as difficulty closing your eyes completely or changes in your vision may occur. Choosing a qualified and experienced provider helps reduce these risks.

Will I Have Visible Scars After Eyelid or Eyebrow Surgery?

Most patients have minimal visible scarring after eyelid or eyebrow surgery, especially when incisions are carefully placed along natural creases or within the hairline. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable.

While no surgery is entirely scar-free, the incisions used in these procedures are generally small and discreet. Most patients find the final cosmetic outcome to be well worth any subtle scarring.

Sun protection is crucial during the healing process, as UV exposure can cause scars to darken and make them more visible. 

Schedule an Eyelid or Eyebrow Surgery Consultation


If sagging eyelids, under-eye bags, or drooping brows are affecting your comfort or confidence, eyelid or eyebrow surgery may be worthwhile. At Central Valley Eye Center, we’re committed to helping patients in Stockton, Manteca, and Modesto achieve a refreshed, natural appearance with advanced surgical care.

Reach out to schedule your consultation and learn more about your options for eyelid or eyebrow surgery in California’s Central Valley. Call 1.800.244.9907 or submit our contact form.


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If you would like to learn more about Eyelid Surgery & Eyebrow Surgery call 1-800-244-9907 to make an appointment at Central Valley Eye Medical Group.

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