FAQ
My eyelids look tired. Will insurance pay for my eyelid surgery?
Medical insurance will sometimes pay for upper eyelid blepharoplasty, but only in patients who have so much excess eyelid skin that it is blocking a significant portion of their vision. In these instances, the surgery is termed functional blepharoplasty and the goal of the surgery is to improve vision. While the appearance of the eyelids often does improve after a functional procedure, this is not the main goal of the surgery. Several steps of a cosmetic procedure, which improve the appearance of the eyelids, such as removal of excess eyelid fat or formation of an eyelid crease, are not typically performed. Insurance never pays for lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Insurance does typically pay for ptosis surgery and there are in office assessments that need to be performed by Dr. Braunstein to determine if you qualify. Please call 973-998-8701 for an appointment.
Why pursue eyelid surgery over other types of cosmetic surgery?
When we look at a person's face, the largest part of our attention is subconsciously focused on the eyes. As a person ages, excess skin and fat accumulate around the eyes and result in a "tired" appearance, often many years before significant signs of aging are visible on the rest of the face. Rejuvenation of the eyelids not only makes a person look younger, but more awake and energetic.
Do I need a referral from my insurance company to see Dr. Braunstein?
It depends. If there is a medical reason why you think you need surgery, you may obtain a referral from the ophthalmologist who does your regular eye exams, a dermatologist or from your primary care physician. If your main interest is in improving your appearance, you are encouraged to come in for a cosmetic consult for a flat out-of-pocket fee of $150. If you decide to have surgery, the cost of the consultation will be subtracted from your cost of your procedure.
What is an oculofacial plastic surgeon?
What types of surgeons perform cosmetic eyelid surgery?
What if I have already had cosmetic surgery and am unhappy with the results?
There are a variety of reasons why patients may be unhappy with the results of cosmetic surgery. Dr. Braunstein performs a large number of eyelid surgeries each year and is uniquely qualified to treat patients who are unhappy with prior surgery.
How are dark circles under the eyes treated?
Does Dr. Braunstein perform non-cosmetic surgical procedures?
Yes. Dr. Braunstein has a large functional (non-cosmetic) surgery practice. She performs a wide range of procedures on the eyelids, orbit (the space behind the eyes) and lacrimal (tear drainage) system. A partial list of procedures is located under the reconstructive surgical procedure page.
What will my surgical experience be like?
Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis while patients are awake. Local anesthesia, similar to the Novacaine used in dental procedures, is used for local pain control and a certified anesthesiologist provides intravenous sedation to make sure you are relaxed and comfortable throughout the surgery. This type of anesthesia is known as monitored anesthesia care and provides many of the benefits of general anesthesia with much less risk. Most patients are able to leave the hospital or surgery center less than one hour after surgery.
What can I do before surgery to reduce my chances of bruising?
Detailed instructions are provided. The most important factor prior to surgery is to discontinue the use of all blood-thinning medications with permission of your primary care physician. Typically, aspirin, plavix and non-steroidal medications such as ibuprofen, Motrin, Alleve, naprosyn and Celebrex are stopped for two weeks prior to surgery. Vitamin C, vitamin E, multivitamins and all herbal medications should also be stopped two weeks prior to surgery. Patients on coumadin typically stop this medication five days prior to surgery. Again, you need permission from your primary care physician before making any changes to your daily medication regimen. All medicines can usually be resumed 1-3 days after surgery. If you are having a procedure with intravenous sedation, your primary care physician will need to complete a history and physical prior to surgery. Many of my patients also elect to take Arnika Forte tablets before and after surgery to minimize bruising. This supplement has varied results in the cosmetic scientific literature but very limited downside and anecdotally my patient’s feel it helps to minimize their downtime.
What is the usual recovery time after surgery and how long do I need to take off from work?
The recovery after surgery varies considerably from patient to patient and is difficult to predict before surgery. There is often a considerable amount of swelling which peaks at 1-2 days after the procedure and gets better each day afterward. Some patients may get "black and blue" bruises in their eyelids and cheeks from the breakage of small blood vessels. Most people feel comfortable returning to work 7-10 days after surgery, but some people go back to work as early as the day after surgery, especially if they are able to work from home. There is often a small amount of residual swelling, which persists for 2-3 weeks after surgery.
A.K.
Patient Testimonials
One word! AWESOME!!
J.G.
You’ve been a great doctor. Keep doing what you do to help so many people. I was overcome with thankfulness when I thought of how much the surgery you gave me changed my life. Thank you so much for the great care and surgery you performed on me.
D.H.
Dr. Braunstein is nothing short of AMAZING. Went to her for chalazion surgery. She performed it in the office - it was quick, painless and absolutely perfect! She has such a pleasant and calm demeanor and wonderful bedside manner. She is highly skilled as is evident by my wonderful results. Not a drop of bruising and no pain afterwards at ALL. Best doctor hands down!! Thank you Dr. Braunstein!