Thinking about making a change? We spoke with Corinne Howard about her decision to have an eyelid lift surgery (Blepharoplasty) with Dr. Scioscia at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery.
Why did you decide to have blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) surgery?
I am proud of my Norwegian heritage and genetics, but my genetically heavy eyelids were causing people to make comments like “you look tired” or “your eyes look puffy today.” By the end of the day, my lids actually felt heavy, and my makeup would also crease in my eyelid and create a very obvious line.
How long had you been thinking about getting the surgery before you made your first appointment?
The look of my heavy eyelids really started to bother me in high school. I remember using cucumbers and trying different home remedies to alleviate the puffiness. I distinctly remember this on the day of my senior pictures. My eyelids, especially in photos, bothered me for about 10 years before I realized there was something that I could do. When I saw before and after photos, I decided to get serious about plastic surgery.
How was your recovery time?
The short recovery time for such a significant result was so worth it! I was under anesthesia for the surgery, but only for about 45 minutes. I used cold compresses for the first 48 hours following surgery for comfort and swelling. My sutures were removed after about five days, and then surgical tape was placed over the incisions for about 2-3 more days. I returned to work on day five, I felt great, and I was able to do just about anything.
How do the results of your surgery change the way you feel about yourself?
I have always been a confident person, but I don’t feel self-conscious about my eyes at all anymore. I actually like seeing my own photos now and I enjoy putting on make-up now. My eyelashes even look longer because they are not being weighed down by my lids. We have enough things to worry about as aging women. I am all about doing things that improve how we feel about our own appearance.
Did you tell your friends and family about your plans to move forward with the surgery? What kinds of reactions did you receive?
I told a few people that I planned to have the surgery. I was surprised when I got reactions like “Why would you do that? You are so young,” and “Aren’t you concerned about having surgery on your face?” I didn’t let that deter me, however, because I had done my research and was certain that I had chosen the very best, board-certified plastic surgeon in town. It’s ironic because patients often tell me that they “don’t want to have that deer in the headlights look” without even realizing that I had the surgery. Quite honestly, unless you knew me before surgery, you would never know I had it done…well until now, it is on the internet! I have absolutely no regrets. Bottom line, blepharoplasty was absolutely the right surgery for me, and Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery was the right place for me to have it done.
What about the cost?
Even though my drooping eyelids were not considered medically necessary by my insurance company, I feel the cost of this cosmetic surgery was worth every penny! My before and after pictures speak for themselves! I chose to have my procedure done at the Ponte Vedra Ambulatory Surgery Center so it actually cost me less than a hospital and was very affordable.
What would you say to someone who has been wanting to change their appearance but is still unsure about it?
Educate yourself. Do your research. Look at before and after photos. Only consider surgery with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Plastic Surgeons are held to the highest standards in the realm of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. It can be very overwhelming but just schedule a consultation. There may even be new technology that can address your appearance without surgery. The board-certified plastic surgeon you chose should be able to speak to you about traditional as well as cutting-edge technologies that can help you improve your appearance.
Where can someone go to learn more about blepharoplasty surgery?
I had my surgery at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery. I could not be happier with my experience. You can see my clinical before and after photos at www.pvps.com. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is also a great resource for finding a doctor and starting research at www.plasticsurgery.org.
