Eyelid Reconstruction in San Diego

Name: Eyelid Reconstruction
Brand: San Diego Eyelid Specialists
Rating: 4.9 (221 reviews)

Eyelid reconstruction restores both function and appearance after trauma, skin cancer removal, or other complex eyelid conditions.

Expert Eyelid Reconstruction in San Diego With Dr. Srinivas Iyengar

At San Diego Eyelid Specialists, patients receive expert-level care for even the most complex eyelid injuries and defects. Whether reconstruction is needed after Mohs surgery for skin cancer or following trauma, Dr. Srinivas Iyengar specializes exclusively in eyelid procedures and has performed thousands of successful reconstructions. His advanced techniques protect the eye, restore natural appearance, and minimize scarring. If you have been referred for eyelid reconstruction in San Diego, schedule your consultation today.

What Is Eyelid Reconstruction?

Eyelid reconstruction is a specialized surgical procedure that repairs and restores eyelids following trauma, tumor removal, or other damage. Because the eyelids are vital for protecting the eye and maintaining vision, reconstruction requires not only technical precision but also artistry to ensure natural results.

As San Diego’s only practice dedicated exclusively to eyelid surgery, Dr. Iyengar performs these reconstructions every week. His fellowship training in oculoplastic surgery gives him unique expertise in preserving eyelid function while achieving seamless cosmetic outcomes.

When Is Eyelid Reconstruction Necessary?

Eyelid reconstruction is often required when the eyelid structure is compromised and cannot heal properly on its own.

Common situations that require this procedure include the following:

After Mohs surgery for eyelid or facial skin cancers
Following eyelid trauma or accidents
Correction of defects from prior surgeries
Severe infections that damage eyelid tissue
Repair of congenital eyelid abnormalities

Each case requires an individualized surgical plan to ensure both protection of the eye and restoration of appearance.

Benefits of Eyelid Reconstruction

Eyelid reconstruction is more than repair—it restores confidence, comfort, and vision. Benefits of this procedure include the following:

Protection of the eye and cornea
Restoration of natural eyelid contour
Preservation of blinking and eye closure
Minimized scarring for discreet results
Improved comfort and appearance
Enhanced quality of life after trauma or skin cancer treatment

Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Reconstruction in San Diego?

You may be a candidate for eyelid reconstruction in San Diego if you have experienced eyelid trauma, undergone skin cancer removal, or have a defect that affects eyelid function or appearance.

Ideal candidates are in good overall health and want results that not only restore normal eyelid mechanics but also blend naturally with their facial features.

“Dr. Iyengar’s office was prompt and professional in their communications. He did an incredible job on my lower eyelid Moh’s reconstruction and made the process quick and painless. I cannot even see the trace of where the surgical scar was. I would definitely go back to him again for any eyelid surgery and would highly recommend him to my friends and family.”

Katie Marie

Your Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Iyengar carefully evaluates your eyelid anatomy, the type and extent of damage, and your overall eye health. He reviews your medical history and prior treatments, and collaborates with dermatologists when reconstruction is performed after Mohs surgery. Patients appreciate his honest, straightforward recommendations, which ensure that the surgical plan prioritizes both safety and aesthetics.

What to Expect During Your Procedure

Eyelid reconstruction is typically performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation depending on the complexity of the repair.

Dr. Iyengar uses advanced microsurgical techniques to reposition tissue, graft skin if necessary, and recreate the natural structure of the eyelid.

His approach emphasizes precise alignment of the eyelid margin, lash line, and crease, helping patients achieve results that look natural while preserving blinking and eye closure. For patients who are in the public eye, his goal is results that are virtually undetectable.

Recovering After Eyelid Reconstruction

Recovery after eyelid reconstruction in San Diego depends on the complexity of the repair, but most patients can expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for the first week. These side effects improve steadily and can be managed with cold compresses and over-the-counter medication. Stitches are usually removed within 5–7 days. During the initial healing phase, patients should avoid strenuous activity, bending over, or heavy lifting to minimize swelling and prevent bleeding. Sleeping with the head elevated and applying ice packs in the first 48 hours helps reduce bruising. Protecting the eyes from the sun and wind with sunglasses is also recommended. Dr. Iyengar provides detailed post-operative instructions, including how to clean the incision sites, apply prescribed ointments, and recognize signs of irritation. Contact lenses should be avoided until healing is complete, though most patients can resume regular daily activities within 1–2 weeks. Full healing, including fading of scars, continues for several months. Follow-up visits with Dr. Iyengar are a key part of recovery, ensuring that the eyelid heals properly, retains full function, and achieves a natural appearance. Patients often remark on the boutique level of personal follow-up care they receive, which offers reassurance throughout the healing process.

How Much Does Eyelid Reconstruction Cost?

The cost of eyelid reconstruction depends on the complexity of the case, whether skin grafting is required, and whether or not insurance coverage applies. Many reconstructions performed after skin cancer removal are at least partially covered. A personalized cost estimate will be provided during your consultation.

Meet Your Provider Dr. Srinivas Iyengar

Dr. Srinivas Iyengar is a fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon and board-certified ophthalmologist specializing exclusively in eyelid surgery. A San Diego native, he has been named a Top Doctor in the region for over a decade and has performed eyelid surgeries in more than 20 countries. Dr. Iyengar is trusted by physicians, public figures, and dermatologists for his skill in providing artistic and safe results from cosmetic eyelid surgery.

San Diego Specialists Office Tour

Why Choose San Diego Eyelid Specialists?

San Diego Eyelid Specialists is the region’s only practice dedicated solely to eyelid surgery. Led by Dr. Srinivas Iyengar, a fellowship-trained eyelid expert, the practice delivers results that protect eye health while restoring confidence. Patients—from physicians to high-profile individuals—trust our boutique practice for specialized care, natural artistry, and uncompromising safety. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions Eyelid Reconstruction

Is eyelid reconstruction painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort, which is managed with oral pain medication.

Will I have visible scars after eyelid reconstruction?

Dr. Iyengar uses meticulous techniques to minimize scarring, often placing incisions within natural creases.

How long does recovery take?

Initial healing occurs within one to two weeks, though full healing and scar fading continue for several months.

Do I need to stop working during recovery?

Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within a week, though social downtime may be longer.

Can eyelid reconstruction be combined with cosmetic procedures?

In some cases, reconstruction can be performed alongside cosmetic eyelid surgery for improved aesthetics, though safety and function always come first.