Q&A With Dr. Core

Patients at our plastic surgery practice often ask how techniques have evolved to keep results natural while maintaining function. Here are Dr. Core's quick answers to two popular questions.

First question is:

"I have a number of friends who have had eyelid surgery that looks very unnatural. How has eyelid surgery changed over the years?"

There have been two major changes in eyelid surgery over the past 10-15 years. First, we now preserve fat in both the upper and lower lids. Earlier techniques routinely removed fat pads, which often left patients hollow. When you look at youthful eyelids in photographs, they still have fullness because the fat is supported by healthy fascia and muscle.

The second change is an emphasis on support. Rather than excising so-called excess skin, modern surgeons reinforce the muscular sling so the lid maintains its structure. Fascia in this area can be thin, so muscle-based support tends to be more reliable. Dr. Core has developed customizable methods, especially for lower eyelid surgery. In the upper lid, a crisp crease plus fat preservation and light resurfacing keeps the result refreshed.

Second question is:

"I underwent a rhinoplasty several years ago and when I breathe the sides of my nose collapse making it difficult for me to breathe in forcibly. What can be done to correct this?"

This is a common condition with older style rhinoplasties where the lower lateral cartilages were over resected. That approach was popular decades ago but leaves the airway unsupported. Today we focus on preserving cartilage whenever possible so the nose keeps its framework.

The good news is that we can correct the collapse without major surgery. A small piece of cartilage taken from the septum or ear is placed inside the nose through hidden incisions to brace the lower outer walls. Recovery is rapid and does not require packing or splints.

Have a question we did not cover? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Core to discuss your goals.