The Art of Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Rizzuto offers top of the line plastic and reconstructive surgery specifically tailored to each patient’s needs and desires. Below are some of the procedures he has an expertise in. Call our office for a consultation.
Understanding Eyelid Surgery
Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
Droopy, Saggy, Tired Eyelids
A Blepharoplasty restores a youthful appearance around the eyes, decreases the feeling of heavy eyelids and can help improve vision in serious cases. This procedure involves removing excess skin and tissue from the upper eyelid, with an incision made at the eyelid crease. This results in a natural looking and younger appearance. Reasons for acquiring an Upper Blepharoplasty may be cosmetic or functional.
Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty (Lower Eyelid Lift)
Droopy, Saggy, Tired Lower Eyelids, Bags, And Dark Circles
A Blepharoplasty restores a youthful appearance around the eyes, decreases the feeling of heavy bags and can help improve vision in serious cases. This procedure involves removing or repositioning the excess skin and tissue on your lower eyelid’s natural crease. This creates a more awake and youthful appearance.
Entropion
Eyelids That Turn In
Entropion is an inward turning of the eyelid toward the eyeball, resulting in irritation of the eye by the eyelashes. The procedure to fix Entropion involves an incision to be made on the outside of the eyelid, then tightening of the skin/muscle. A graft or a small piece of tissue is then surgically placed on the eyelid and in result, causes a reposition of the eyelid and stops the pull and irritation the patients feel.
Ectropion
Eyelids That Turn Out
Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid turns outward, which leaves the inner eyelid exposed and easily irritated. The procedure to fix Ectropion involves tightening of the tendons that would normally be holding the eyelid into the correct position and placing a skin graft or tissue on the lid to reposition it.
Ptosis
Eyelids That Droop
A drooping eyelid is called ptosis or blepharoptosis. In ptosis, the upper eyelid falls to a position that is lower than normal. In severe cases of ptosis, the drooping eyelid can cover part or all of the pupil and interfere with vision, resulting in amblyopia. Treatment of Ptosis is usually a Blepharoplasty Surgery.
Eyelid Twitching (Blepharospasm)
Blepharospasm is an abnormal contraction in the eyelid muscles. These involuntary eyelid twitches can be caused by a number of things, such as: an allergy, an irritation of the eyeball, crying, caffeine, anxiety, or an acute emotional event. Treatments for this are reducing stress or cutting out caffeine, botulinum toxins and in some cases surgery. Dr. Rizzuto's recommendation is botulinum toxins.
Periocular Skin Cancers (Basal Cell/Squamous Cell Carcinoma)
Skin Cancers Around The Eye
For skin cancers around the eye, delicate excision of the lesion with precise reconstruction with or without and possible MOHs surgery are the most common treatment plans. MOHs surgery is a specialized tissue sparing surgical technique used to treat skin cancer on the face. By removing and examining layers of the dermis the skin cancer can be removed while preserving delicate eyelid structures as well as minimize residual scarring on the face.
Skin Cancers Around The Eye
After undergoing Mohs surgery, a specialized and precise surgical procedure for removing skin cancer, reconstruction is the next vital step in the healing process. This phase focuses on restoring the affected area's appearance and function while minimizing scarring. The primary goal of reconstruction after Mohs surgery is to achieve optimal cosmetic results while maintaining the wound's structural integrity.
Functional vs. Cosmetic Eyelid Concerns
Eyelid conditions often fall into two categories—functional and cosmetic—though many patients experience a combination of both.
Functional concerns affect the health, comfort, or performance of the eyes. These may include:
- Drooping eyelids (ptosis) that interfere with vision
- Excess skin blocking the visual field
- Eyelids turning inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion)
- Chronic irritation, dryness, or excessive tearing
Cosmetic concerns relate to the appearance of the eyes and surrounding area, such as:
- Sagging or loose eyelid skin
- Under-eye bags or puffiness
- A tired or aged appearance
Because the eyelids serve both protective and aesthetic roles, treatment often addresses both function and appearance. Dr. Rizzuto carefully evaluates each patient to determine the most appropriate approach for balanced, natural-looking results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between An Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon And A General Plastic Surgeon?
An oculofacial plastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist who has completed additional fellowship training focused specifically on the eyelids, orbit, and surrounding facial structures. This background provides a deeper understanding of eye function and anatomy. As a result, procedures are performed with both visual health and aesthetic outcomes in mind.
How Do I Know Which Eyelid Procedure I Need?
The appropriate procedure depends on your specific concerns, whether they are cosmetic, functional, or both. Conditions such as excess skin, under-eye bags, or eyelid malposition are evaluated during a consultation. A personalized treatment plan is then developed based on your anatomy and goals.
Can Eyelid Conditions Worsen If Left Untreated?
Some eyelid conditions, such as ptosis, entropion, or ectropion, may progressively worsen over time. This can lead to increased irritation, dryness, or even vision obstruction. Early evaluation allows for timely treatment and helps prevent further complications.
Will Eyelid Surgery Affect My Vision?
In many cases, eyelid surgery can improve vision by removing excess skin or correcting droopy eyelids that obstruct the visual field. Functional procedures are designed to restore proper eyelid position while maintaining eye health. Care is taken to protect vision throughout the surgical process.
Are These Procedures Performed On An Outpatient Basis?
Most eyelid and periocular procedures are completed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day. The setting is designed for safety, comfort, and efficiency. Specific details will be discussed prior to your procedure to ensure you are fully prepared.
Why Choose Dr. Philip Rizzuto for Cosmetic Eye Surgery?
Dr. Philip Rizzuto is a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with specialized training in ophthalmology and reconstructive eyelid surgery, making him uniquely qualified to treat both the functional and cosmetic aspects of the delicate eye area.
He completed his medical degree at The University at Buffalo, followed by an ophthalmology residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and a fellowship in oculofacial plastic surgery at The Kresge Eye Institute. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology, he brings a high level of surgical precision and expertise to every procedure.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Rizzuto has served for over 20 years as a Professor of Surgery at Brown University, reflecting his ongoing commitment to education and advancing the field.
Precision Eyelid Procedures in Providence & Middletown, RI
Eyelid and periocular procedures can address both aesthetic concerns and functional issues that affect daily comfort and vision. With advanced training and a specialized focus on the eye area, Dr. Rizzuto provides precise, individualized care designed to achieve natural-looking results.
To learn more or take the next step, call our office today at 401-274-6622 to schedule your consultation.