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Laser Blepharoplasty Vs. Surgery

asked 3 years ago by katya in Cincinatti
Latest answer by Rod J. Rohrich, MD
Question viewed 22,182 times
Tags: technique

I want to have Blepharoplasty for the upper and lower eyelids. I have 2 choices of technique: by laser or by scalpel. Which one is better and last longer?

40 answers to Laser Blepharoplasty Vs. Surgery

+3

Laser vs. Scalpel for Blepharoplasty

A laser can be used as a cutting tool just like a scalpel. A laser placed in the wrong hands can produce major problems, but in the proper hands can be safely used as a tool in blepharoplasty. Therefore, one is not necessarily better than the other. Lasers seem elegant to the general public and are generally marketing ploys to attract patients for blepharoplasty (and other) surgery. The experience of the surgeon is a more important factor in surgery than the tool employed! more
James M. Kurley, MD

Champaign Plastic Surgeon
+3

Laser Blepharoplasty Vs. Surgery

A good Blepharoplasty can be performed using the laser or scalpel.  There are also other instruments that can be used like an Ellman unit or Colorado needle.  The ultimate goal is to get the best result with the least amount of bleeding and swelling.  The most important factor is your surgeon.  Your surgeon probably has tried multiple techniques and uses the one that gives him the best results with the least complications.  Ultimately, your surgeon needs to make... more
Sam Goldberger, MD

Beverly Hills Oculoplastic Surgeon

www.neweyelids.com

+2

Laser vs. Scalpel: It's the Surgeon's Skill That Matters Most

It is rare that either laser or scalpel will have special advantage in Blepharoplasty: this has been studied widely and there is no appreciable difference in quality of results or recovery time, even though there have been claims that seem to indicate otherwise. The skill (and therefore, the preference) of your surgeon is what matters most in assuring you the best possible results.
Paul C. Zwiebel, MD

Denver Plastic Surgeon
+2

Laser surgery can heal with faster recovery

I have been using the CO2 laser for eyelid surgery since 1992. It coagulates as it cuts, and so there is definitely less bruising after surgery. Studies have shown less bruising and faster recovery, but an equal outcome after the passage of time. I think doctors who feel that laser surgery is no better than scalpel surgery should not give an opinion if they have not had experience with both modalities. I have done both, and still do scalpel surgery when teaching the residents how to do... more
Jeffrey Schiller, MD

New York Oculoplastic Surgeon

www.beautifuleyes.com

+2

Results from "Laser" blepharoplasty is the same as scalpel.

Blepharoplasty has the same reults whether done with laser or scalpel as the "cutting" instrument. The technique your surgeon has the most experirnce with will probably give the best results.
Debra Irizarry, MD

Crestone Plastic Surgeon
+2

Laser is a tool, just like the scalpel

A laser is simply a surgical tool. It is used to cut skin and coagulate blood vessels. Both can be done with various surgical instruments (scalpel or laser) equally well. It really depends on the type of tools your surgeon prefers to use. I would make your decision about which surgeon to choose based on which one you feel understands your goals and most specializes in this type of surgery. Ask to see before and after photos and speak to friends who have had the procedures, before you make... more
Thomas Buonassisi, MD

Vancouver Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.8west.ca

+2

No difference between laser and scalpel for blepharoplasty

The idea of using a laser instead of a scalpel for blepharoplasty has been around for at least 15 years, and no real benefits have been convincingly demonstrated with the laser. There are a number of uses for lasers that do justify the additional expense, but this probably isn't one of them.
Richard Baxter, MD

Seattle Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser vs. Scalp Blepharoplasty

There is no data to show that the laser blepharoplasty is any better. There are additional risks of laser around the eyes. They both last approximately the same time which is 10-15 years. As of today, scalpel (or traditional excision) blepharoplasty remains the gold standard.
Rod J. Rohrich, MD

Dallas Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser vs Scalpel

Both are acceptable if used to cut tissue. The result however, is based on the technique and expeirence of the surgeon. Find a board certified plastic surgeon
Raj S. Ambay, MD

Tampa Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser surgery versus scalpel for blepharoplasty

Early in my career, I used the laser technique. Now, I have switched back to the blade because I have found that patients heal faster, with less risk of wound separation. Both techniques will last for the same period, the differences are in the acute period of wound healing. There is no proven evidence that there is less bruising and swelling with the laser.
Patrick M. Flaharty, MD

Fort Myers Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.azulbeauty.com

+1

A laser blepharoplasty is surgery

Instead of a scalpel, a surgeon can use the carbon dioxide laser to make the incisions. I used to use it a lot in the late 90's but went back to a scalpel for the upper lid skin incision and cautery or scalpel for the lower lid incision inside the lid. I occasionally use the laser now on the lower lid. Other than a little less bruising, there is no advantage and the wounds take longer to heal.
Stuart H. Bentkover, MD

Worcester Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser blepharoplasty or traditional scalpel

The skill and experience of the doctor is most important. what technique will be used. skin removal, fat removal, repositioning, set back. muscle suspension, canthopexy. this is all more important
Jed H. Horowitz, MD

Orange County Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser vs scalpel

Either the laser and scalpel will have good long lasting results. In the short term, the laser surgery may result in less bruising and swelling and a faster recovery however both will "last" the same amount of time. Some surgeons prey on the public's belief that "laser mus be better" and use it as a marketing ploy however aside from the slightly less bruising and swelling, there is essentially no difference in outcome. There have been some studies where one eyelid was... more
Chris Thiagarajah, MD

Washington DC Oculoplastic Surgeon
+1

Laser blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery

The Laser is just a tool, in this case acting like a cautery. Your surgeon's skills and experience are what matters most. Laser blepharoplasty is sometimes touted as being superior becasue of people's perception of Lasers as High-tech devices which provide superior results. Although this perception is sometimes used for marketing purposes, it is not warranted, certainly not in the case of blepharoplasty. In my opinion blepharoplasty with a scalpel is likely to be associated with... more
Mark Samaha, MD

Montreal Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Blepharoplasty - laser vs. scalpel

Hi Katya. Thank you for your question. There is no evidence to suggest that either technique is superior over the other or leads to longer-lasting results. The skill of your surgeon has much more to do with the success of your blepharoplasty. Good luck.
James M. Pearson, MD

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Blepharoplasty how to perform the surgery laser vs. knife

There is no advantage in performing a blepharoplasty with a laser. The skin must be cut with either process and the fat removed. There is little or no tissue damage with a knife while with a laser there is thermal tissue damage. I would advise you to choose your surgeon who has the best reputation and results.
Gary H. Manchester, MD

San Diego Plastic Surgeon

www.manchesterclinic.com

+1

Scalpel v. laser, clash of the titans.

I want to have Blepharoplasty for the upper and lower eyelids. I have 2 choices of technique: by laser or by scalpel. Which one is better and last longer? the only thing I can say in favor of laser is that it affords the opportunity to laser the skin after the blepharoplasty is completed, other than that, cuttung is cutting. the surgeon is the more important variable.
Rafael C. Cabrera, MD

Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon
+1

Scalpel vs. laser for blepharoplasty

The important variable here is who is wielding the tool.  The laser is an instrument just like a scalpel is an instrument.  The laser may sound more sexy, and like any tool has advantages and disadvantages.  The key is how they are used.  Take time to check out the surgeon.  Ask to see photos.  Ask about advantages and disadvantages.  Good idea to see multiple surgeons.  Remember this is elective surgery, you are in charge. 
Jeffrey Roth, MD

Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon
+1

It is the athlete not the equipment!

When looking at blepharoplasty, the surgeon is the most important variable not the equipment used.  Lasers can be dangerous, as they cause heat and heat can lead to burns that can distort the eyelids or injure the eyeball.  Make sure your surgeon has experience, significant experience, before he/she does your surgery.  Sometimes, both techniques can be used together, using the laser to tighten the skin of the lower eyelid instead of removing it. 
Julius W. Few, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

fewinstitute.com

+1

Laser Blepharoplasty Vs. Surgery

While there may be a difference in some surgeons' experience, I'm not sure a good study (randomized, double-blinded study) has ever been done to answer this question objectively. I think most agree that the long-term results are the same. The term "laser" is often used as a marketing tool and in some arenas (like skin resurfacing) it has been more than just hype. Be careful as a consumer.
Anand D. Patel, MD

Austin Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Choice of Scalpel VS Laser Blepharoplasty

Regarding: "Laser Blepharoplasty Vs. Surgery I want to have Blepharoplasty for the upper and lower eyelids. I have 2 choices of technique: by laser or by scalpel. Which one is better and last longer?" The quality of a Blepharoplasty is NOT dependent on the tool but rather on the hand that guides the tool. I am sure that I would lose every  tennis game holding the most expensive tennis racket made if I faced any of the top 10 players facing me holding only a... more
Peter A. Aldea, MD

Memphis Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser vs. Scalpel Blepharoplasty

The simple and short answer is that there is no advantage of using a laser during a blepharoplasty.  In fact, heating the tissue  can result in thermal damage which would negatively affect scaring.  The time test approach of using a scalpel to make the incision is still the standard. 
Amir M. Karam, MD

San Diego Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.drkaram.com

+1

Laser eyelid surgery vs scalpel

The upper eyelid blepharoplasty is best and almost always done by scalpel. In my office they are done under local anesthesia and take 15 minutes each eye. The lower eyelids however can often best be done by erbium laser especially if the problem is mostly skin and not fat bags. This not only gets rid of the excess skin but smooths out the fine wrinkles nicely. This approach can be combined with a transconjunctival blepharoplasty to remove the fat. This combined approach of... more
Richard Galitz, MD

Miami Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

LASERs versus Scalpel in Lower Eyelid Surgery

LASERs always sound better in medical and surgical jargon.  However, the use of LASERs in lower blepharoplasty is used in the following situations: As a substitute for a scalpel- There really is no difference here between LASER and scalpel here.  A LASER does have extra risks including heat transfer to surrounding areas and potential damage to the eye.  I prefer a scalpel because I feel in my hands it is the best instrument for scarring. As a skin tightener-... more
Anil R. Shah, MD

Chicago Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser vs scalpel for eyelid surgery

I am not a big fan of laser surgery in the eyelid area.  Certainly in some cases it can tighten the skin.  However, in my experience, a blepharoplasty is a lot more than tightening up the skin.  Eyelid surgery is rearranging the complex juxtaposition of skin, fat and muscle that surrounds the eye.  I am a surgeon and prefer a scalpel for maximum control and my best results.  Pick a qualified , board certified plastic surgeon.  Also, I have seen many pigmentation... more
Talmage J. Raine, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+1

Blepharoplasty Without a Laser is Definitely Better

In circumstances of upper or lower eyelid surgery, one option is to use a CO2 laser as a cauterizing instrument. CO2 lasers transmit a tremendous amount of heat energy, which correlates with a rather slow recovery. A scalpel, although old fashioned, has the distinct advantage of a lack of "collateral damage", and healing is typically much faster. The term "laser Blepharoplasty" is purely a marketing concept which is designed to seduce the patient into believing the... more
Stephen Prendiville, MD

Fort Myers Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.drprendiville.com

+1

Laser blepharoplasty is just marketing.

Hi! 1)  There are no advantages to laser blepharoplasty.  Surgical blepharoplasty works well. 2)  Your only important choice is who the surgeon is.   That makes a huge difference.  Ask to see lots of before and after pictures.
George J. Beraka, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Less bleeding with laser, but more swelling and takes longer to heal

A laser is just a thermal cutting instrument for performing the same surgery as with a scalpel. It is safer to use a scalpel than a laser light beam. If the laser were to come in contact with the eye it could immediately blind a patient. The exact same surgery is being performed with a laser versus a scalpel as the laser is only a cutting tool, just like a scalpel. The only advantage is there is less bleeding at the time of the surgery. The disadvantage is that because it is a thermal... more
William Portuese, MD

Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.seattlefacial.com

+1

Bleph with laser or scalpel

It is not the want but how it is used.  Whether one uses a laser to burn or a scalpel to cut, a Blepharoplasty can be performed either way.  It really is no big deal, but more likely a marketing tool by the doctor with the laser.
Steven Wallach, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

It is the surgeon that counts in Blepharoplasty

The most important tool in any facial plastic surgey procedure in the surgeon. His or her experience and results will be the deciding factor in your outcome and you don't want to base your decision on whether someone uses a laser or a scalpel to make the incision. Studies have shown that the results with the same person suturing up both a laser and scalpel incision are the same. Good luck.
Andrew Miller, MD

Edison Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.associatesinplasticsurgery.com

+1

Laser is hype

The blepharoplasty requires cutting. The blade or the laser will do it equally well. The laser sounds cool and new, so in the end, it is all about the HYPE!
Robert M. Freund, MD

New York Plastic Surgeon
+1

Scalpel or laser makes no difference for blepharoplasty

The laser acts as a cutting tool similar to a cautery or knife. Surgeons will use whatever they are comfortable with as the cutting tool. There is no difference in any as far as outcome. There are other surgical considerations that matter.  
Christopher L. Hess, MD

Fairfax Plastic Surgeon
+1

It all depends on your anatomy

Katya, There are many "tools" for performing blepharoplasty. Even though laser sounds more exciting, traditional blepharoplasty may be better. However, it all depends on your anatomy. Also, laser is being marketed for performing blepharoplasty in different ways. Lasers can be used similar to a cautery. Laser can be used to resurface the skin. A laser probe can be placed under the skin and melt the fat. So, there are many uses of many lasers. These are all questions that you need to... more
David Shafer, MD

New York Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser is just a fancy cautery

The result is much more from the skill of the surgeon and the quality of your starting point than from lasers or scalpels. Personally, I don't use scalpels or lasers at all. I like to use a very fine tipped electrocautery device (Colorado tip) for the whole surgery, so you can see that there are many ways to do the operations. The cautery and lasers are used to try to prevent bruising and swelling and make the recovery faster, they don't make the result necessarily better than someone... more
Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS

Seattle Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser or Scapel Blepharoplasty

Just like every powerful tool, the impact comes from the craftsman, not the tool. The laser, like the scalpel is a cutting tool. Studies have shown less bleeding during the procedure, and less swelling the first two days when the laser is used. The ultimate healing and results are the same given that the surgeon is skilled. Bleeding is well controlled with scalpel blepharoplasty. Choose your surgeon based on results, other patients recommendations, and your gut feeling. You want a... more
Michael A. Persky, MD

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Lasers don't always make sense

While there are many situations in which lasers can produce results that can not be achieved by other means, blepharoplasty is not one of them. Substituting a laser for a scalpel does not, in my opinion, add any significant benefit. Lasers generally work by heating the target tissue in order to produce their effect. In most instances, there is what's called a zone of thermal injury, in which the heat produced by the laser causes a variable amount of surrounding tissue damage. This effect... more
Richard W. Westreich, MD

Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Scalpel or laser does not make any difference

The result of the procedure depends on your surgeons technique, not the tools. The scare more depends on your tissue than the laser or scaple. Please get more than one consultation.
Kamran Khoobehi, MD

New Orleans Plastic Surgeon
+1

No difference between surgical and laser blepharoplasty

If you have a laser, you want to use it to pay for it.  In the long run, and even I believe the short run, I see no advantage to using a laser for either long term results, or which is "better".
Scott E. Kasden, MD

Dallas Plastic Surgeon
+1

Laser and scalpel blepharoplasty should give same results

Laser blepharoplasty (which I use) and scalpel blepharoplasty, if done correctly by a skilled surgeon, should give you equal results. The reason I use the laser is that the laser seals blood vessels in the incision, thus I find that there is less bleeding, less bruising, quicker procedure, and quicker recovery than blepharoplasty done with a scalpel. I use a transconjunctival laser incision on the inside of the lower eyelid because this approach preserves the support of the lower eyelid and... more
Brooke R. Seckel, MD

Boston Plastic Surgeon

www.drseckel.com

+1

Laser Eyelid Rejuvenation for an Eyelid Lift

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed from both the outside (transcutaneous) or inside (transconjunctival) of the eyelid. 99.9% of the 3000 cases I have performed as an Ocular Plastic Surgeon in Sterling Hieghts, Michigan have been transconjuctival. The advantage of my technique is: NO stitches, NO skin incision, and NO Scalpel blade. I perform the procedure with the MIXTO laser. This carbon dioxide (CO2) laser allows me to gently remove the fullness (fat) from the inside of the... more
Mark Berkowitz, MD

Sterling Heights Oculoplastic Surgeon

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