Blepharoplasty & Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery encompasses the following procedures:

Blepharoplasty (upper & lower eyelid)
Ptosis Correction (upper eyelid)
Double Eyelid Surgery

Excess skin and fat naturally accumulate in the upper eyelid as we age. Commonly referred to as bagginess, patients are uniformly displeased with the aged and fatigued look that this extra tissue conveys. In extreme cases, the weight of eyelids becomes substantial and vision is partially obstructed, limiting the performance of everyday activities. Additionally, the thin muscle that controls upper eyelid elevation can stretch with time leading to an unopposed lowering of the eyelid. This also connotes a tired appearance and can obstruct the visual field when severe. All of these components are examined and addressed during your upper eyelid blepharoplasty consult and correctable during surgery. The goal is to restore a refreshed and natural appearance.

The transition between the lower eyelid and cheek is an important facial landmark and target for rejuvenation procedures. Even the slightest discordance between these areas connotes an aged appearance. Excess fat in the lower eyelid produces a visible bulge, or “bag,” causing patients to appear tired. Additionally, as we age, volume in the cheek diminishes, causing a visible recess or deepening around the eye. Light reflects off this area and creates a hollow, aged appearance that is displeasing to patients. Injectable filler placed in and around the tear trough region temporarily and often incompletely disguises this problem. Unfortunately, non-surgical methods cannot address the excess skin that accumulates in the lower eyelid.

Undoubtedly, a more resilient, long lasting improvement is achieved through surgery. Excess fat in lower eyelid is removed or repositioned, smoothing the transition with the cheek. Additionally, excess skin is addressed through a discrete incision hidden beneath the lower eyelashes. Lower eyelid sagging (also called lower eyelid malposition) is also corrected with re-suspension and tightening, restoring a youthful vitality. Lower eyelid surgery is frequently combined with a facelift procedure and/or chemical peel to synergistically rejuvenate the face.

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Learn About The Surgery

Eyelid & Ptosis Correction Procedure

REFRESHED & NATURAL

The eyes convey age and emotion. Removing excess skin, repairing drooping eyelids and smoothing bags or tear trough depressions (dark circles) can have a profound and rejuvenating affect. Eyelid surgery is routinely combined with a facelift, browlift or chemical peel to synergistically rejuvenate the face.

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What to Expect

All procedures are done in a balanced and natural esthetic.

Consultation

The purpose of the consultation is to create a treatment plan that addresses your goals and fulfills your expectations. Surgical and non-surgical options for periorbital rejuvenation will be discussed, taking into consideration that each individual is unique and may require a combination of treatments or surgical techniques. At the end of the consultation, my hope is that you will have a thorough understanding of eyelid rejuvenation, how it restores a youthful appearance to the upper third of the face and what option(s) will best meet your individual needs.

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Surgery

Surgery is performed at an accredited surgery center in Newport Beach, California, USA. Under the care of a Board Certified Anesthesiologist, upper eyelid procedures are typically performed under sedation with local anesthesia. I find that patients are very comfortable with this type of anesthesia, which allows them to breathe on their own while remaining pain-free and comfortable. On the other hand, general anesthesia (fully asleep) is used during lower eyelid blepharoplasty in order to ensure maximal comfort and safety. Lower eyelid procedures are often a bit more involved and stimulating, thus requiring a deeper level of anesthesia.

The incisions for both upper and lower eyelid procedures are placed in the natural eyelid creases, rendering them imperceptible during daily conversation.

PRE-OPERATIVE GUIDANCE

General Instructions

1. Stop all Aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, Fish Oil, Supplements with Omega 3, Ginger, Garlic, Ginkgo Biloba and Turmeric – as these will thin the blood and complicate the surgery. You may take Tylenol as needed.
2. Medications – please notify us of any medications or supplements that you take regularly so that we may advise you appropriately.
3. Please fill all prescriptions prior to surgery so that they may be started immediately upon returning home.
4. Please no recreational drug use or smoking 4 weeks prior to and after the surgery.
5. Please have lab work completed 1-2 weeks prior to surgery.
6. Contact us immediately if you have any change in your health between your pre-operative visit and the surgery date.
7. Arrange for a driver to pick you up from the surgery center. Uber or Lyft are not acceptable. The driver does not have to remain onsite during surgery. they will be called when you are ready to be discharged from the recovery unit.
8. Make sure you have a responsible adult stay with you for the first 24-48 hours following surgery – this is for your safety.
9. DO NOT EAT OR DRINK AFTER MIDNIGHT THE NIGHT BEFORE SURGERY.

Create a “Wish Picture”

Visualizing the volumetric breast change on your own body can be invaluable to the surgical planning process! The Mentor™ 3D Breast Simulator app will facilitate the creation of a “wish picture” prior to your pre-operative visit and works best for augmentation and/or lift procedures. Simply take three pictures as instructed and begin simulating the desired look of your new breasts. When finished, you can securely send your photos to us at info@donaldmowldsmd.com.

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Morning of Surgery

1. Take a shower using anti-bacterial soap – No lotions, hair products, powders, perfumes or makeup.
2. Wear loose comfortable clothing to the surgery center. We recommend wearing zip-up or button-up shirts and loose, comfortable pants.
3. Female patients will be given a urine pregnancy test at the surgery center.

We are here to help you through your recovery. Please do not hesitate to call our office.

Recovery

Patients are discharged home the same day and generally experience very minimal discomfort and bruising, often returning to work in the days following surgery. Upper eyelid sutures are removed painlessly in the office one week following surgery. Absorbable sutures are used in the lower eyelid, disappearing within a week as the scar fades into the lower lash line.

POST-OPERATIVE GUIDANCE

General Instructions

1. Prescriptions provided at your pre-operative appointment should be filled prior to surgery and started when you arrive home. Take the first antibiotic dose at dinner time.
2. Please take a daily stool softener (e.g. Colace) or laxative (e.g. Senokot) while taking the pain medication. Stop if stools become loose.
3. Do not take Aspirin, Motrin, Aleve or herbal medications as these interfere with your blood’s ability to clot.
4. Bruising is a normal part of surgery. Over-the-counter Arnica can help expedite its resolution.
5. You may temporarily have trouble closing your eyes while you sleep. Apply over the counter artificial tears before bed and as needed for irritation.
6. For the first 24 hours following surgery, apply ice cold compresses at 20-minute intervals.
7. Continue to remain hydrated following the surgery.
8. Resume your regular diet, there are no restrictions. If you become nauseous, carbonated beverages and crackers may help settle the stomach. Zofran (Ondansetron) will be prescribed and can be taken as well.
9. Make sure you have a responsible adult stay with you for the first 24-48 hours following surgery – this is for your safety.
10. Sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first week to protect the incisions and improve swelling.
11. Ambulate throughout the day to prevent blood clots in your legs.
12. Do not lift anything heavier than a purse and no pushing, pulling, exercise or any activity that may raise your blood pressure until cleared.
13. It is ok to shower 24 hours following surgery. Do not rub or wash your eyes.
14. No smoking – this inhibits wound healing, causing undesirable complications.
15. Driving – Do not drive or perform any tasks that require coordination or judgement for at least 72 hours after general anesthesia or while taking narcotic pain medication. This is particularly important following eyelid surgery as swelling may affect the visual fields.
16. Please call the office if you experience fever, chills, increased pain, wound drainage or if you have any concerns. Our office hours are Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm and Friday 9am-12pm. To reach me after hours, please call the office and follow the prompts.

Results

The results are intended to be long lasting; however, the process of aging cannot be stopped and may impact the robustness of the result over time. As such, excess skin may gradually re-accumulate. This is unavoidable, however easily addressed during a second procedure. Regardless, patients are uniformly pleased with the natural and refreshing look that this procedure provides.

FAQs

What can I expect to look like after surgery?

Although you will be pain-free, you will be swollen. I instruct my patients to ice their eyes and sleep upright for at least the first 24 hours. Your eyelids will feel tight, a sensation that will improve in the days following surgery as the swelling diminishes.

What can I expect to look like after surgery?

During the initial healing process, the upper eyelid incision may be visible, primarily when the eyes are closed. Upon full healing, the thin scar blends into the natural upper eyelid crease, rendering it imperceptible during normal conversation. The lower eyelid incision is placed beneath the lower lash line. With time, this thin scar becomes the natural crease beneath the eyelashes, rendering it invisible at a conversational distance.

Will lower eyelid surgery change the shape of my eyes?

Extreme care is taken during surgery to make sure downward tension is not placed on the lower eyelid, thereby preserving the shape of the eye.

Before & After

Stunning, natural results from patients.

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EYELID SURGERY

Receive an in-depth consultation where we will thoroughly review your goals to personalize a plan focused on a natural and aesthetic result. Dr. Donald S. Mowlds, MD is located in beautiful Newport Beach, CA but is also available via a virtual consultation for out-of-town patients.

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Facial Procedures

All procedures are done in a balanced and natural esthetic.

Face & Neck Lift

A lower face and neck lift restores youthfulness through careful repositioning of your natural facial volume. Excess skin is removed in a balanced fashion to create a natural esthetic that avoids an overdone appearance.

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Neck Liposculpture

Liposculpture uses various liposuction techniques to address the excess fat tissue of the neck, jowls and chin to provide an enhanced contour. The targeted approach that liposuction affords is unparalleled and results in customized contouring of the neck and jaw. Mild skin laxity is also improved during the healing process following liposuction.

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Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

A surgical as well as non-surgical rhinoplasty “nose job” should be performed in harmony with the patient’s existing facial contours and ethnicity, creating the most natural result. We will devise a comprehensive plan that balances the objectives with your natural facial features in order to achieve a beautiful, long-lasting result.

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Chin Augmentation

The chin is the centerpiece of the lower face and as such conveys excess or deficiency in this area. A chin augmentation utilizes a small silicone implant placed through a discrete incision to create a more balanced profile and structure to the jaw and lower face.

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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Excess skin and fat naturally accumulate in the eyelid as we age. Commonly referred to as bagginess, patients are uniformly displeased with the aged and fatigued look that this extra tissue conveys.

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Brow Lift

Eyebrow lifts reposition the eyebrows to the ideal location, refreshing the upper eye region. Brow lift surgery is often combined with upper eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, to achieve a maximal rejuvenation in this area.

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Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Ear rejuvenation aims to restore a natural, symmetric and aesthetic appearance to the ears. Abnormally shaped ears can be inherited at birth and cause distress throughout the adolescent years and beyond.

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Patient Reviews

Scarlett A.

Neck Liposculpture

Dr. Mowlds did liposuction under my neck to get rid of my double chin and define my jawline. It was the best decision I have ever made. He made me feel so much more confident and the results were more than I could have ever hoped for. The surgery was easy and recovery was smooth. Dr. Mowlds checks up on his patients every 2-3 weeks to make sure the results are perfect. Highly recommend this surgery and Dr. Mowlds!!

Scarlett A.

Abigail S.

Skin Tightening & Scar Revision

After consulting with numerous plastic surgeons I decided on Dr. Mowlds for my c-section scar revision and Renuvion skin tightening. I had 3 emergency c-sections that had left me with a terrible looking scar. After a virtual consultation, I knew Dr. Mowlds was the right choice. The added bonus was that he has the Renuvion skin tightening machine which is the gold standard in skin tightening and I am amazed at my results just 3 weeks out. I am so happy with my decision and would highly recommend Dr. Mowlds for any cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.

Abigail S.

Kinda H.

I am absolutely thrilled with my results! I have seen a number of surgeons around the world and Dr. Mowlds is by far THE BEST. Not only is he knowledgeable and meticulous, he’s a great listener. As a result, he put a thoughtful and innovative plan together for my case that no other surgeon had considered before and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Very little pain post surgery and he put me at ease from start to finish. Mallory, his office manager, is also wonderful and was always available to answer my questions. I highly recommended him and his team.

Kinda H.

Jessica T.

Tummy Tuck & Breast Implants

I am SO HAPPY with my new body!! January 2021, Dr. Mowlds replaced my breast implants and gave me a full tummy tuck. My scars are so minimal! The man has good hands! He took so much time to listen to me, care about my concerns and really understand the results I was hoping for. Can I just say, THIS MAN DELIVERED!! He actually gave me better results than I was hoping for. Finally a man who keeps his word! Hahahaha! His assistant, Mallory, also took so much time with me, checked in, listened, always responded to my messages right away and was just so sweet!! Two of my friends have also gone to him for breast augmentation because of how pleased I am with my experience and results. Thank you, Dr. Mowlds, for my reconstructed body-ody!! It’s amazing now bc of your skill and artistic craftsmanship!

Jessica T.

Daisy M.

Dr. Mowlds is by far the BEST to say the least. I’m glad I came across him. His staff is AMAZING, always a phone call or text away pre and post op. I had gone to several consults in which they didn’t make me comfortable or confident to choose them. Dr. Mowlds and I met. I explained to him my complicated case, my concerns and showed him what he had to fix. He shared his thoughts, knowledge and was up for the challenge. He was very detailed in his explanations and sure did deliver. I have no regrets picking him as my surgeon. HE IS THE BEST!

Daisy M.

Andrea R.

Breast Revision

Dr. Mowlds is the absolute BEST at what he does. I had a botched breast augmentation, which was causing me serious health concerns, chronic chest and back pain. I was extremely nervous as I didn’t think my issue could be resolved, let’s just say my breasts needed a lot of work. I loved that Dr. Mowlds never treated me like a patient, but rather a friend who he wanted to have the best experience and results possible. He is a true artist in his field, and my breasts are proof of that. Dr. Mowlds was professional, warm, knowledgeable, talented, and great at listening to my concerns and helping me understand everything along the way. I have already recommended a few of my girlfriends to go see him.

Andrea R.

Merdith V.

Skin Care & Non-Surgical Procedures

Dr. Mowlds was extremely professional and made me feel very comfortable in what would typically be a very nervous, uncertain situation around needles. He took his time and was very patient answering all my questions. I’ve been seeing him for Botox, lip + laser treatments and will not go to anyone else. Dr. Mowlds is very meticulous, gentle, honest and has good, conservative taste. So grateful to have found him!

Merdith V.

Samira H.

I met Dr. Mowlds for the first time back in April of 2023 and knew right away that I could trust him with my procedures. He was very personable, informative, and a great listener. He made me feel at ease and catered to exactly what I was looking for. His staff was very friendly, always available and would respond to my questions very quickly before and after my surgery. My surgery was a complete success. I am very happy with the results and I would highly recommend Dr. Mowlds to all my family and friends. Truly an exceptional experience! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 🥰❤️🙏🏻

Samira H.

Ulyana F.

5 stars is not enough for Dr. Mowlds and his team! Dr. Mowlds is a highly qualified and skilled cosmetic surgeon. His work and meticulous attention to detail is exceptional! Mallory the patient coordinator is always so helpful and pleasant. Brittany the PA is professional and very sweet. From the consult to the post-op appointments, I always feel like I am Dr. Mowlds’ only patient. His professionalism, knowledge, expertise, bedside manner, kindness, attentiveness along with my results are all beyond my highest expectations.

Ulyana F.

Nicole K.

Breast Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. Mowlds is a phenomenal surgeon and I feel so blessed to have had him do my surgery!! I had symmastia breast reconstructive surgery done by Dr. Mowlds. I had lived the last 15 years with my breasts looking like a “uni-boob.” I felt so self conscious for many years. I also breast fed 2 kids so I had a lot of rippling and loss of saline in my old implants. Dr. Mowlds was extremely honest, caring and helpful with making the decision to fix my breasts. He listened to exactly what I wanted and his staff was absolutely amazing!! In order to reconstruct my breasts he used galaflex absorbable mesh to separate my breasts and make them normal again. I went with silicone implants this time and could not be happier with my results. Everyday I feel so thankful I can look in the mirror and feel normal. Dr. Mowlds is the ABSOLUTE BEST SURGEON!!

Nicole K.

Melanie M.

Dr. Mowlds and his staff provided me with outstanding and professional healthcare. He always treated me with kindness and respect during our patient visits. It was quite evident Dr. Mowlds takes a lot of pride in the work that he performs! I underwent an extensive back surgery and was not only concerned with the physical results, but additionally, the functional results of an extensive surgical closure. I am so grateful my neurosurgeon recommended and works in collaboration with Dr Mowlds. I am extremely pleased with the aesthetic results of my surgery and would not hesitate to recommend this professional practice.

Melanie M.

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