Questions and Answers

What is the difference between an Oculoplastic Surgeon (Specialist) and a Plastic Surgeon (Generalist) for eyelid surgery?

Because the eyes are the most delicate and intricate part of the human body, experts recommend an oculoplastic surgeon for surgery performed around the eyes. An oculoplastic surgeon is board certified with training in ophthalmology and plastic surgery. Through advanced training, Drs. Cole, Murphy and Baylin are qualified to address disorders of the eyelid and even repair complications caused by previous cosmetic surgeons. There are thousands of plastic surgeons in the world, but there are only a few hundred oculoplastic surgeons. Dr. Cole is quadruple board certified in ophthalmology, laser surgery, ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery, and cosmetic surgery. Dr. Murphy is certified in ophthalmlogy, ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery, and cosmetic surgery. Dr. Baylin is a board certified ophthalmic surgeon with extensive training in oculofacial plastic surgery. Dr. Baylin performs cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face with a focus on plastic surgery around the eyes.

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How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?

The results of an aesthetic eyelid surgery typically last about nine to ten years, then gravity can start to pull your eyebrows down. The longevity of results vary according to elasticity, sun exposure and genetics. To get the most out of your surgery for the longest period of time, Drs. Cole, Murphy & Baylin recommend a healthy lifestyle with limited sun exposure. They also advise patients to use sunscreen to minimize further photoaging and wear sunglasses to avoid squinting.

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What can I take or do before surgery to enhance my results?

Do’s — multi-vitamins, vitamin C 500 mg twice a day, skin care program, exercise, healthy diet, and sunscreen. Don’ts — aspirin two weeks before surgery, vitamin E over 250iu, smoking, alcohol, and sun exposure.

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How can different surgeons charge different fees for the same surgery?

Surgeons’ fees reflect many different aspects of their practice. If a surgeon has not performed many eyelid surgeries, he or she will lower their fees to attract patients and gain experience (the hidden expense). An experienced and well trained surgeon’s fees will reflect this advanced training and experience.

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How much recovery time will I need before I can get back into my normal routine?

You should schedule your surgery during a period when you can devote yourself to healing. During your consultation, we will advise you of the healing time required related to the procedures you chose to have performed. The recovery time can vary from three or four days to two to three weeks, depending on the procedure.

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What is the difference between the older scalpel eyelid procedures and the new aesthetic laser eyelid procedures?

The laser offers precise excision of excess eyelid skin and fat pads with less bruising and swelling than the older scalpel procedures. The laser seals blood vessels as the excess skin and fat pads are removed, thus making the surgery “bloodless.” The laser allows Drs. Cole, Murphy & Baylin to remove puffiness and wrinkles from your lower eyelids without an exposed incision. Through these advanced procedures, the eyelid shape is not changed as compared to the older scalpel procedures which affected the shape of your eyes and left visible scars. Laser procedures are less invasive, safer and have shorter recovery times.

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how long have Drs. Cole, Murphy & Baylin been performing surgery and how many eyelid procedures have they performed?

Dr. Cole has been performing eyelid surgery for over 14 years and has performed more than 14,000 procedures. He specializes in eyelid surgery and wrinkle resurfacing. Dr. Murphy began his practice 11 years ago and has performed more than 10,000 surgical procedures. Dr. Baylin has been an Oculoplastic Surgeon since 2004 and has performed 5000 surgeries.

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Where do Drs. Cole, Murphy & Baylin perform surgery?

Drs. Cole, Murphy & Baylin are on the medical staff of several local hospitals. In order to provide patients with the best possible care, Atlanta Oculoplastic & Cosmetic Surgery features its own private surgical facility, Specialty Surgery Center. The facility meets hospital standards and is fully accredited by the Joint Commission of Accreditation on Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO).

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How long does it take to perform surgery?

It takes about three to four hours from when you arrive at Specialty Surgery Center until you go home. This includes your pre-operative consultation, surgery and your post-surgery recovery period.

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What is the procedure for the morning of surgery?

Patients arrive at Specialty Surgery Center one hour before surgery so we can review their surgery as well as operative and post-operative care. They are given a mild sedative when arriving to keep them relaxed before surgery. You may bring a CD for us to play before and after surgery for your relaxation and enjoyment. After all of the material has been reviewed with you, our anesthesiologist will take you back to the surgery suite and start your I.V. to minimize any discomfort. You will receive some medicine through the I.V. and before you know it, you will awaken from your “twilight” sleep and your surgery will be completed. After surgery, you will rest in the recovery room. We will place ice on your eyelids and monitor your progress. About 30 minutes to one hour after your surgery, we will give you a final evaluation and let you go home. We will contact you the evening of your surgery and the next day to review your progress.

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