FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Eye Surgery

What is an Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon?

An Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon is a board certified ophthalmologist with separate specialized (fellowship) training in cosmetic plastic surgery of the forehead/eyebrows, eyelids, midface (cheeks), and reconstructive surgery of the same areas, tear duct and orbits (bones which protect the eyes). This is a highly specialized field within plastic surgery with specific expertise in the eyes and areas around the eyes.

Why should I see an Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon?

You should see an Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon because you should only trust your eyes to the most experienced and best trained specialist within the field. If you were to need an evaluation of your heart for medical reasons – you would see a heart specialist (a cardiologist) – not a generalist. The same should hold true with your cosmetic surgical needs. You should only put yourself in the hands of an expert in the field.

Why should I see Dr. Massry for my surgery?

Dr. Massry is a well respected and experienced ophthalmic plastic surgeon. His reputation is that of honesty, integrity and compassion. Dr. Massry strives for “natural looking” surgical results and has a track record of consistently achieving this outcome. Dr. Massry performs thorough patient evaluations. He is straightforward in his opinion regarding what is best for the patient – whether it be surgery or not having surgery. Dr. Massry feels having surgery is a serious decision which should not be taken lightly. It is better to do nothing than to potentially cause a problem. Dr. Massry has a passion for his work, and is only satisfied when the patient is satisfied.

What procedures do I need to have done?

This is the most common question Dr. Massry is presented with. There is no “black and white” answer. There are typically a variety of options available to most patients to attain their desired outcome. The best way to identify what is in the patients best interest is to have a complete evaluation with Dr. Massry. We can assure you that you will leave the appointment satisfied, and with all the information you need to make the most appropriate decision for yourself.

Is cosmetic surgery painful?

In general, pain is not a concern with the procedures Dr. Massry performs. In the few procedures which are associated with a slight degree of discomfort, Dr. Massry administers appropriate medications intra-operatively and post-operatively to make the experience more comfortable for the patient.

How long will it take for me to recover from surgery?

This depends on the procedures you are having done. As a general rule, most of the bruising and swelling from surgery are gone within 10 days to 2 weeks after surgery. However, you are typically able to go about your daily activity (except exercise) within 2-3 days after surgery. There are no dressings or bandages placed after surgery.

Are brow lifts lengthy and involved surgeries?

Modern brow lift surgery is performed in a minimally invasive manner (endoscopically). In the hands of an experienced endoscopic surgeon, surgery takes approximately one hour, without shaving of hair, with very few small incisions behind the hairline, and few potential complications. This is a significant advancement from the older techniques of surgery which gave the brow lift operation the reputation of being involved and complicated.

Is cosmetic eyelid surgery risky?

All surgery has inherent potential risks and complications. Cosmetic eyelid surgery has advanced to the point that it is a relatively straightforward and a very safe surgery when performed by an appropriately trained person. In Dr. Massry’s hands, surgery is typically quick, painless, uneventful, and successful. Dr. Massry’s patients are generally very pleased and, along with physicians in the community, are the primary source of referrals to his practice.

I’m afraid of looking different after surgery. Can this happen?

The best way to avoid the unnatural or operated look to the eyes is to see a specialist like Dr. Massry. There is no better way to ensure the best possible outcome to surgery than to see a specialist within the field. It’s one of Dr. Massry’s main goals of surgery to not change the shape of your eyes. In your consultation with Dr. Massry, he will explain to you why unnatural results occur and how he avoids them.

Am I going to have visible scars after surgery?

Anytime an incision is made, it heals by forming a scar. For this reason it is especially important to see a specialist in eyelid surgery when having surgery in this area. Dr. Massry artistically places the fine incisions necessary for surgery in locations which are typically not visible after healing from surgery. Brow lift and mid-face surgical incisions are small and hidden (behind the hairline and inside the mouth respectively) where they can never be seen. Upper eyelid incisions are very fine and within the natural upper eyelid crease; while lower eyelid incisions are typically inside the eyelid. For these reasons scars are hidden and rarely even noticed. Dr. Massry prides himself on his ability to make surgery “natural appearing” and without evidence of ever having been done.

Can I get hollow under eyes after surgery?

To avoid the “hollow look” of lower eyelid surgery, Dr. Massry can perform surgery in such a way as to preserve your natural lower eyelid fat (puffiness) and place it in areas which are deficient in fat. This surgical procedure is called lower lid fat repositioning. Dr. Massry can tell you if you are a good candidate for it in your consultation with him.

What are the potential side effects of facial fillers?

Side effects with all fillers are uncommon and are primarily related to bruising and swelling. No allergy test is needed with any of the hyaluronic acid gels as they are a normal part of the human body. A great benefit of Restylane, Restylane Lyft and Juvederm is that they can be reversed with an injection if a patient does not like the results.