The Patient Experience - Malena Amato MD FACS
×

The Patient Experience

My goal is to listen to the patient, provide expert care, and together come up with an individualized plan that is in the best interest of the patient for a safe, excellent outcome.

Your Consultation

Your first visit with your Doctor: All patients should feel at ease from the moment they enter our office. With convenient, free parking and her friendly staff, you will be greeted, and your medical information will be obtained. During your initial consultation with Dr. Amato or Dr. Somogyi, a detailed history, exam, vital signs, photographs, and measurements are taken. A careful discussion with your doctor including the recommended plan that best suits you will be discussed with an outline of risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. Some risks of surgery include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, need for more surgery, and vision problems. Sometimes, treatment can be offered in the office such as Botox®fillers or an office procedure.

Preparing for Surgery

Dr. Malena Amato's surgical team, wearing scrubs and masks

Upper and lower eyelid and facial surgery are often performed under local or IV sedation in an outpatient setting with minimal pain afterward. Patients will have a preoperative evaluation of their medical conditions and should be in stable health or medically cleared by their primary physician to undergo surgery. Patients taking blood thinners will be asked to stop 1-2 weeks before surgery with permission from their physician to avoid the complications of bleeding. Drs. Amato & Somogyi along with their team strive to provide a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere during this stressful time for our patients. Arrangements can be made for out of town patients to stay in Austin around the time of surgery. Most surgeries last 1-2 hours.  Occasionally, surgery is performed in a hospital setting, for sicker patients, longer more extensive surgery or for an overnight stay.

Most patients do remarkably well during and after surgery, and there are few risks. However, it is crucial to undergo surgery with an experienced surgeon and for the patients to be aware of the possible complications of the eyelid and facial surgery. These risks will be discussed with the patient before surgery by your surgeon. The significant risks of eyelid surgery are bleeding, infection, scarring, wound infection, asymmetry of fat or skin removed, and nerve damage or loss of vision. Removal of too much skin around the eyes can cause serious problems relating to the inability to close the eyelids and severe dry eye problems completely. Severe bleeding around the eye is a rare complication, but it can affect vision and should be reported to the physician immediately. In Ptosis surgery, many factors determine the overall outcome of the eyelid position, and consequently, an adjustment of the eyelid may be necessary for some patients to achieve symmetry or proper place.

Ready to book your procedure?

If you are ready to take the next step, or simply want more information about a procedure, please contact our team! Dr. Amato and Dr. Somogyi look forward to speaking with you soon!

After Surgery

All patients need a driver. After surgery, patients will stay in the recovery until they feel alert with pain controlled with ice packs and will receive postoperative care instructions. Frequent use of ice packs and head elevation on 2 pillows or a recliner are essential to help with bruising, swelling and comfort in the first 48 hours. We are available 24/7 for our patients after surgery and we encourage our patients to contact us directly for any concerns. Most patients have blurred vision after surgery due to eye ointment and swelling. It is recommended not to drive for the first few days after surgery. Bruising and swelling is worse the early few days, and can last typically up to 2-3 weeks. Small bumps can appear on the scars, which can be improved with massage a few weeks after surgery and healing cream. You will see subtle changes in healing over the next 6-12 months.

Sometimes, unforeseen problems occur after surgery such as prolonged swelling, infection, abnormal scarring, or asymmetry, which can be frustrating. Occasionally, revision surgery is needed. Though this is rare, we have the experience and expertise to manage complications around the eyes and face. We will be there every step of the way and address and treat your concerns so that you can still achieve an optimal result

There is no greater joy than a happy patient.