Address
1520 East Plaza Boulevard, National City, CA 91950
Office Hours
8:00AM - 5:00PM
Monday - Friday
Phone
Meet our Surgeon
Emma McDonnell, M.D., is a board certified Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. She specializes in adult and pediatric reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid surgery (i.e. Blepharoplasty), brow and forehead lifts, facial and orbital surgery. Dr. McDonnell is trained to diagnose and manage diseases of the eye socket and the lacrimal drainage system, and thyroid eye diseases, and to treat facial trauma and eyelid injuries. Dr. McDonnell attended University of Southern California where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, earning her Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Healthy and Humanity. After that, she attended Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore and Sinai Hospital of Baltimore. Dr. McDonnell did her residency in Ophthalmology at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and fellowship in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Wilmer Eye Institute at John Hopkins Hospital. She has multiple publications and was voted 2nd best research paper by a Resident by University of Southwestern. Following her extensive training, Dr. McDonnell became board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. She is a member of North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society, and Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology. Dr. Emma McDonnell is originally from Southern California and she is very excited to be back to serve the community. During her free time, she enjoys running and reading. Dr. McDonnell is proficient in Spanish and English.
What is Lower Eyelid Surgery?
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, or lower eyelid surgery, is a popular surgical cosmetic procedure that improves the overall appearance of the under-eyes by removing excess skin, removing excess fatty deposits, and tightening facial muscles that may have weakened over time. Patients who choose to undergo lower eyelid surgery typically wish to refresh and rejuvenate their overall look while feeling more confident about their appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Expect During My Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty?
A lower eyelid blepharoplasty is performed with either local or general anesthesia and is typically completed in about an hour. Your skilled physician will determine the method of your procedure by the amount of fat and tissue that needs to be removed, the location of that fat and tissue, and how tight to make the lower eyelids. The details of your individualized treatment plan will be discussed during your one-on-one consultation and may include the following:
- Transconjunctival lower eyelid blepharoplasty. This technique is often chosen when no skin needs to be removed to achieve your desired results. A transconjunctival lower lid blepharoplasty uses an incision on the inside of the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scar following surgery.
- Transcutaneous lower eyelid blepharoplasty. A transcutaneous lower lid blepharoplasty requires an incision be made along the lower lashline to remove excess skin and fat from the treated area. Also known as a pinch technique, this is a popular procedure for men and women with moderate under-eye concerns.
- Transconjunctival arcus marginalis release. A transconjunctival arcus marginalis release moves the fat within the lid to maintain some volume in the soft tissue. It prevents the ridge of orbital bone from becoming too prominent, which causes the eyes to look hollow and the face to appear older.
What Is Recovery Like After My Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty?
Immediately following your lower eyelid surgery, you can expect to experience swelling, bruising, tenderness, and sensitivity in your treated areas. This is normal and typically resolves on its own within a few days of your lower eyelid surgery. Patients typically make a full initial recovery within five to seven days of treatment and are able to return to their normal daily activities including their exercise routines and work within two weeks. We ask that you avoid wearing contact lenses and eye makeup for at least two weeks following your procedure to ensure a swift and easy recovery.
What Results Can I Expect From My Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty?
While you will be able to see some results of your lower eyelid surgery immediately following treatment, the full results of your procedure will become visible as swelling and bruising subside and continue to improve for up to a year after surgery. The lower eyelid blepharoplasty procedure is designed to produce long-lasting results. While surgery cannot prevent the eyes from aging, most patients are satisfied with their results and do not seek a repeat procedure.
Am I A Good Candidate For Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty?
If you are unhappy with the loose, sagging skin or puffy bags beneath your eyes, lower eyelid blepharoplasty with one of the expert ophthalmologists at American Eye Associates and California Retina Associates may be right for you. Ideal candidates for this procedure are in good general health, do not smoke, and do not have any serious health issues. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations of their results before undergoing a lower eyelid blepharoplasty procedure. If you’re still unsure whether lower eyelid blepharoplasty is right for you, we encourage you to come in for a private consultation with one of our skilled doctors today.