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Why Your Eyelids Deserve an Eyelid Expert

When contemplating eyelid surgery, whether for cosmetic enhancement or to address medical issues, a crucial decision is choosing the right specialist. Should you choose a general plastic surgeon or an oculoplastic surgeon? Both types of professionals perform cosmetic and reconstructive procedures but differ significantly in their focus, training, and expertise. Below, we outline these differences to help you make an informed choice.


What is an Oculoplastic Surgeon?

An oculoplastic surgeon (often called an eyelid expert) is a double-board-certified physician in ophthalmology and eyelid and facial plastic surgery. This unique credentialing reflects years of specialized training concentrated on the delicate tissues around the eyes.

Ophthalmic Training

  • Before specializing in plastic surgery of the eyelids, an oculoplastic surgeon completes four years of medical school and a residency in ophthalmology
  • This residency focuses on the health, function, and anatomy of the eyes

Oculoplastic Fellowship

  • After residency, an oculoplastic surgeon undergoes advanced fellowship training
  • This training zeroes in on reconstructive and cosmetic procedures of the eyelids, orbit, tear ducts, and surrounding facial structures
  • These fellowships are highly competitive and involve rigorous hands-on mentorship, ensuring an intimate understanding of the eye region

Dr. Anaïs Carniciu, for example, has this dual expertise. As a board-certified ophthalmologist and an ASOPRS (American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)- certified oculoplastic surgeon, she is uniquely qualified to address both the functional and aesthetic aspects of eyelid surgery.

What About a Plastic Surgeon?

A plastic surgeon typically completes a residency in either general surgery or a broad plastic surgery program. While plastic surgeons are highly trained in procedures covering the entire body—from breast augmentation to body contouring—they often do not receive the same depth of training explicitly devoted to the eye area.

Board Certification in Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgeons who focus on the face can develop strong skills but do not spend years treating the complex structures around the eyes.

Broad Approach vs. Targeted Specialization

Although many plastic surgeons are skilled in facial rejuvenation techniques, they typically lack the specialized training in orbital anatomy, tear ducts, and eyelid function that an oculoplastic surgeon receives through fellowship and advanced ophthalmic education.

Why Choose an Oculoplastic Surgeon (Eyelid Expert) for Your Eyelid Surgery

  • Subspecialty Focus on the Eye Area: Oculoplastic surgeons have a focused approach to eyelid anatomy, ensuring surgical results that are both beautiful and functionally sound.
  • Enhanced Precision and Safety: Detailed knowledge of the eye’s delicate architecture helps minimize risks and increase the likelihood of optimal outcomes. This is especially important for procedures like ptosis repair, blepharoplasty (eyelid lift), or eyelid reconstruction.
  • Comprehensive Eye Care: If eye health issues arise before, during, or after surgery, an oculoplastic surgeon’s ophthalmic background is uniquely suited to diagnose and address those concerns immediately.
  • Refined Aesthetic Results: By harmonizing eyelids with the natural contours of the face, oculoplastic surgeons prioritize subtle transformations that enhance, rather than dramatically alter, appearance.


Meet Dr. Anaïs Carniciu, Your Eyelid Expert

At New York Eye and Face, Dr. Anaïs Carniciu exemplifies the gold standard of oculoplastic surgery. She is:

  • Double Board-Certified in both ophthalmology and oculofacial plastic surgery
  • An ASOPRS-Certified Specialist recognized worldwide as an authority on eyelid and facial procedures
  • Dedicated to delivering natural, age-defying results while safeguarding eye health and function

Dr. Carniciu’s dual expertise equips her to treat the most intricate eyelid concerns while prioritizing your safety, comfort, and final outcome. Patients can rest assured they are in expert hands—an “eyelid expert”—and receive premium care from consultation to post-operative follow-up.

Putting Your Vision First

Eyelid surgery focuses not only on improving your appearance but also on preserving and enhancing the function of your eyes. By choosing an oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Carniciu, you benefit from specialized ophthalmic expertise, ensuring that the procedure addresses aesthetics, functionality, and overall eye health.

If you’re considering eyelid surgery, ask yourself: Do I want a specialist whose training and focus are entirely dedicated to the eyes and surrounding facial structures? Given the impact of your eyes on your appearance and daily life, the advantages of selecting an oculoplastic surgeon are evident.

For more information about eyelid surgery or other oculofacial procedures, please contact us at New York Eye and Face. We look forward to helping you achieve refreshed, natural-looking results that inspire newfound confidence.


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