For Eyelid Surgery, Toronto Facial Plastic Surgeon Works with Eye Doctors

Dr. Richard Rival emphasizes the important union of health and beauty for his facial cosmetic surgery patients. That’s why he coordinates patient care with other physicians like eye doctors to improve his patients’ lives.

Toronto, Ontario (May 2010) – Dr. Richard Rival, a facial plastic surgeon performing eyelid surgery in Toronto, is working closely with other medical specialists in order to make sure his patients’ surgical outcomes are as comprehensive as possible.

“Working with doctors from other disciplines helps me ensure that the surgical decisions I make are in line with a patient’s broader health needs,” explains Dr. Rival. “Surgeries like eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty are often as much about function as they are about aesthetics, so it’s important for me to use every resource possible to ensure excellent results. I believe a multidisciplinary approach is always in the best interest of the patient.”

In the case of eyelid surgery, Dr. Rival says collaboration is particularly important because even cosmetic procedures that reshape the eyelids for a more youthful appearance still may require the surgeon to address functional concerns. Even small variations in surgical technique can affect how well the eyelid works, making it one of the more complex cosmetic surgery procedures in Toronto.

“Eyelid surgery can improve a patient’s vision, especially when excess skin in the upper eyelid is causing ‘hooding’ of the eye, which can block peripheral vision,” notes Dr. Rival. “And if I’m planning to perform surgery for a patient who is also being seen for an eye disease or eye disorder, I need to coordinate care so their vision remains as clear as possible.”

Collaboration also can occur as part of other facial plastic surgery procedures in Toronto, such as rhinoplasty. Before performing nose surgery, Dr. Rival may check with a patient’s allergy specialist or other practitioner so that he has a full picture of a patient’s health history.

“As a facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist, I’m well versed in the anatomy and physiology of the ears, nose and throat,” says Dr. Rival. “That said, I often find it helpful to consult with a patient’s other doctors so that I understand and special circumstances and can plan properly for a rhinoplasty procedure. By coordinating care, my patients end up healthier and – in the case of nose surgery – can actually breathe easier.”

As part of every new patient consultation, Dr. Rival reviews a patient’s health history, asks patients detailed questions, and follows up with the patient’s other medical specialists when he has concerns or needs additional clarification. Checking on a patient’s health is as important prior to a cosmetic procedure as it is for any other type of invasive surgery.

“I have performed advanced reconstructive surgeries where I have worked side-by-side with other surgeons, but not every collaboration has to be that involved,” he notes. “In some cases a simple phone call is all it takes to ensure I am selecting the most appropriate treatments and methods for a particular patient.”

The best way to find out if you are a candidate for eyelid surgery in Toronto is to consult with Dr. Rival. We encourage you to request a consultation by filling out and printing our online consultation certificate, or call us toll-free at (866) 229-3223.