My Journey to Refreshed Eyes with Dr. Ponsky
For years, I've helped people feel confident in their wardrobes, understanding the power of presentation. But recently, I started noticing something in my own reflection that was bothering me – my eyes. The skin around my eyelids was becoming crepey, and those fine lines on my lower lids were making my makeup settle in all the wrong places. Even my upper eyelids felt a bit heavy. It wasn't a dramatic droop, nothing that impaired my vision, but those subtle changes were making me look more tired than I felt. Botox in my brows just wasn't cutting it anymore. That's when I started considering facial rejuvenation.
What Prompted My Decision?
My initial thought was a simple upper blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) and maybe a little lower lid skin pinch. I did my research on how to minimize bruising and swelling – loading up on arnica and bromelain beforehand and skipping alcohol. My main goal was to look refreshed, like a better version of myself.
When it came to choosing a doctor, there was really only one name in my mind: Dr. Ponsky (a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Cleveland with over two decades of experience in cosmetic surgery of the head and neck region). Over the past five years, I've entrusted her with other procedures, and each time, I've been so impressed by her approach. She truly listens to my concerns, carefully considers the best plan, and always prioritizes a natural-looking result. Her philosophy of "less is more, we can always do more later" resonates with me. Plus, I appreciate that she's not afraid to offer her professional recommendation, even if it differs from my initial thoughts. I never feel pressured, which is so important.
Beyond Dr. Ponsky's expertise, her entire team is incredible. They were always available to answer my questions, checked in on my healing progress, and even had me send photos. A few months post-treatment, I had a minor healing issue, and they were so responsive, immediately prescribing a cream that helped. That level of care and attention made all the difference.
Of course, I had a few butterflies leading up to the procedures. I wasn't too worried about pain, knowing Dr. Ponsky would keep me comfortable based on past experiences. My main concerns were looking different and how long I'd be "out of commission." As someone who is regularly on TV and in photos for my work, timing was crucial. I decided to be upfront with my clients about it. In fact, I even had a closet appointment the very next day!
I am going to share my whole experience as a patient of Dr. Ponsky’s, from consult all the way through the recovery. You can also learn all about my eye rejuvenation treatments with Dr. Ponsky from her own perspective in this blog post!
The Day Of: My Experience
The day of the procedures went smoothly. Dr. Ponsky gave me a relaxing pill, which definitely helped calm my nerves. For the upper blepharoplasty, she used topical numbing, and honestly, I didn't feel a thing. If eyelid surgery had been the only procedure, it would have been a breeze! However, Dr. Ponsky, after carefully studying my photos, felt that a skin pinch wouldn't fully address my lower eye concerns. She recommended a chemical peel instead. (Dr. Ponsky explained that while I initially thought a skin pinch would work, she felt a chemical peel would better address the crepeiness and texture of my lower eyelid skin, allowing her to get closer to the lash line without a lower lid incision.) She did prepare me that it would be a longer recovery, but that the overall results for the lower eye area would be worth it.
Coming out of the procedures, let's just say I looked a bit like an alien! Thankfully, the discomfort was minimal – the peel was definitely more noticeable than the bleph. Ice packs, Tylenol, and sleeping propped up became my best friends. While I looked scary, I wasn't in much pain.
I followed Dr. Ponsky's post-operative instructions to the letter. Why go through all that and then not do exactly what she says? It just doesn't make sense!
The Recovery Timeline
Highs and Lows
The first week of recovery was the toughest. I definitely needed my hat and sunglasses whenever I ventured out. Again, most of the swelling and redness came from the peel; the bleph recovery was much easier. I was thrilled when I could put my contacts back in after just a few days.
Fitting It All In: My Busy Schedule
Fitting this into my busy schedule required careful planning and a willingness to be open about my appearance during the initial recovery.
Nine days after the procedures, I had an in-person presentation. I went to a makeup artist who specializes in post-operative makeup (how cool is that?!), and he did an amazing job of helping me feel more presentable. I didn't look exactly like myself, but it wasn't alarming.
Two weeks later, I filmed a partnership campaign, and by 18 days post-procedure, I was filming a TV pilot, and no one suspected a thing! Even looking back at my Thanksgiving photos (about six weeks post-procedure), I can still see a tiny bit of swelling after traveling, but I'm probably the only one who notices it.
This was me the day I had the procedure done!!
See My Recovery Day-By-Day
Warning: It’s not pretty!!
18 days post-procedure - I filmed a TV pilot
6 weeks post-procedure!
The Results Are In!
Now, five months out, I am absolutely thrilled with the results.
The peel recovery was a bit longer than I initially anticipated. My skin around my eyes feels incredibly smooth, like a baby's bottom! It took some time, though. The new skin was quite delicate, and I experienced some minor sores and redness (easily covered with concealer) for a while. But the upper bleph recovery was a breeze, and the scar is barely visible, which is saying a lot because I tend to scar easily.
Results of an upper blepharoplasty and chemical peel with Dr. Diana Ponsky
Confidence Boost? Absolutely!
This experience has definitely boosted my self-confidence. My eyes look more awake and smooth, and I couldn't be happier!
My Skincare Routine: Then and Now
My daily skincare routine has always included sunscreen, but now I'm hyper-vigilant about it – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses are my go-to. It's funny, I actually need less eye makeup now because of the surgery, but I do use a bit more concealer around my eyes as the skin is still a touch pink at times. Of course, my concealer has SPF for extra protection.
Would I Recommend Dr. Ponsky?
A million times yes! You can learn more about Ponsky Facial Plastic Surgery here. Her facial plastic surgery practice is located in Beachwood, Ohio and she’s simply the best. If you schedule a consultation, be sure to tell her that I sent you!!
How Much Does It Cost?
Ponsky Facial Plastic Surgery is very transparent about pricing - which I love!!! They have a page that covers the average price of their facial treatments and procedures. Click here to view pricing.
My Advice to Others
My advice to other women considering this? Do your research and make sure you truly connect with your doctor. Don't just look for the cheapest option – this is your face we're talking about! No Groupons here! Diligently follow all pre- and post-operative instructions. And most importantly, communicate with your doctor. They're not mind readers, so express your concerns and how you're feeling. Also, manage your expectations – it takes time to heal, and there might be setbacks, but a skilled doctor like Dr. Ponsky will work to make it amazing.
My Philosophy on Aging
My overall philosophy on aging gracefully is to do what feels right for you. There's absolutely no shame in considering surgical interventions. Sometimes, less is more, or doing things in stages can lead to the most natural-looking results – it should still look like you, just a more refined version. For me, this journey with Dr. Ponsky has been exactly that, and I'm so glad I took the leap.