Dr. Jill Melicher is an ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery specialist at Minnesota Eye Consultants. She specializes in surgery of the upper and lower eyelids, the tear drainage system and the orbit. Dr. Melicher also provides an array of facial rejuvenation services, including cosmetic upper and lower eyelid surgery, small incision endoscopic forehead lifts, filler and Botulinum toxin injections for wrinkle reduction.
Dr. Melicher’s surgical philosophy is that the best result is one that makes patients look and feel better, not different. Her conservative approach to surgery will help patients achieve a well-rested, natural look.
Dr. Melicher attended Concordia College in Moorhead, MN for undergraduate degree and went on to medical school at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She finished residency training at the University of Minnesota Medical School where she rotated with the Minnesota Eye Consultants physicians. Dr. Melicher completed her fellowship training under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Nerad at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, IA and Cincinnati Eye Institute in Cincinnati, OH.
Dr. Melicher is Board Certified in Ophthalmology, a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. She has completed a two year, Ophthalmic Plastic, Orbit and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship training through the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors Society and was awarded the Harry Plotke Award at the University of Minnesota Medical School, as well as medical scholarships at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She has authored numerous publications and textbook chapters. She has a passion for training the next generation of Ophthalmologists by teaching upper and lower eyelid surgery at national conferences every year. She has served as the President of the Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology and on multiple committees through the American Academy of Ophthalmology and American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Dr. Melicher feels like her patients are a part of her extended family. From a patient’s first consult to their final postop appointment, Dr. Melicher works hard to provide the best experience for her patients.
Originally from Fargo, North Dakota, Dr. Melicher, her husband and their three daughters call Minnesota home. Outside of work, Dr. Melicher spends her time driving her kids around to their many activities. And after a long hiatus from the sport, she is back to working on her backhand and the rest of her tennis game.
Eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and lax muscles on the upper and lower eyelids.
LEARN MOREPtosis is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both eyes. When the edge of the upper eyelid falls, it may block the upper field of your vision.
LEARN MORECorrection of mild to moderate brow ptosis can be accomplished through incisions directly above the brows, in the forehead creases, or at the hairline. These techniques are most effective if the brow ptosis involves predominantly the central area of the forehead.
LEARN MOREDCR, or dacryocystorhinostomy, is a surgery performed to create a new tear drain between the eye and nose when your current tear drain becomes blocked or obstructed.
LEARN MOREOphthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery is a specialized area of ophthalmology that deals with the management of disorders of the eyelids, lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (the bone cavity surrounding the eye), and the adjacent face.
LEARN MOREEctropion is an outwardly turned or sagging lower eyelid and entropion is a condition in which an eyelid turns inward, rubbing against the eye, making it red, irritated, and sensitive to light and wind. Learn more about how we treat them.
People with hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid glands) may experience changes around their eyes. The most common abnormalities are prominent eyes, a staring expression, and infrequent blinking.
LEARN MOREWe provide an array of aesthetic services at Minnesota Eye Consultants, including BOTOX and facial fillers. Fill out our Consultation Form to learn which treatment is right for you.
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Q. What can I expect during my initial visit?
A. The initial visit is an opportunity to meet Dr. Melicher and discuss your concerns and oculofacial goals. During this thorough evaluation, Dr. Melicher will walk through your recommended treatment options and answer any questions you may have.
Q. If I decide to have surgery, when can it be scheduled?
A. Dr. Melicher will explain how and when you can schedule surgery. The scheduling depends on availability, and for certain cases, insurance pre-certification.
Q. How much is the surgery going to cost?
A. Many eyelid procedures are covered by insurance. An upper eyelid lift is often covered by insurance if vision is obstructed by sagging lids. Special testing is performed to determine if you would be a candidate for insurance coverage. Financing is available for non-covered services. Dr. Melicher and her team will discuss any fees for non-covered services.
Q. How much time should I plan to take off work following surgery?
A. Patients often feel comfortable returning to work and resuming their social activities in about one to two weeks. This may vary depending on your type of procedure and how quickly you heal.
Q. How long will my bruising and swelling last?
A. Keep in mind these are averages, each patient will have a different experience based on their individual healing, skin texture and skin tone.
Sometimes swelling lasts 4-6 months, or longer, depending on the patient. Warm compresses can be helpful in decreasing swelling by dilating the lymphatic channels that drain the eyelid.
Patients often report that it takes 4 months for them to feel like their eyelids are their “own.” Numbness and tingling can last above and below the incision line for 6-12 months.
Q. What can I do to improve my bruising and swelling faster?
A. Keep your head higher than your heart for the first week. Sleep in a recliner if you have one, otherwise sleep in bed on three or more pillows. Ice as much as possible for the first two days. If you still feel like your swelling and bruising is increasing at two days, continue icing. If your swelling and bruising has stabilized, switch to warm compresses to promote dilation of the lymphatic channels.
Q. How long will the numbness last?
A. You may notice numbness and tingling in the eyelid after surgery, including the eyelash line. This may be present for 6-12 months.
Q. What should I avoid during my recovery period?
A. Refrain from doing any activity that has the potential to raise your blood pressure such as exercising, bending, lifting, and brisk walking. Do not drink alcoholic beverages. Do not take medicines or supplements which thin the blood. The doctor will inform you when it is safe to resume these activities.
Q. When will I need to have this surgery repeated?
A. Our surgeons can “turn back the clock”, but cannot “stop the clock.” You may need surgery repeated after time due to the continued effects of aging. The timing of repeat surgery is patient dependent and is heavily influenced by genetics and life experiences. Overall, you can expect your results to last 5-10 years.
Dr. Melicher is is very punctual and professional. She’s a good listener and very empathetic. She’s very competent and I respect her decisions. I feel fortunate to have her as my physician. Thank you very much!!
- JoAnn Z.
Dr Melicher is an outstanding Physician / Specialist & Occuplast. Talented, experienced & a perfectionist who cares for her patients and is warm & personable. Her expertise is second to none and I have seen several Occuplasts and she is Top Gun!
- Charles R.
Yes with strong recommendations! Dr. Melicher is very thorough in her examinations, spends the time to explain procedures or conditions and answers questions presented. She is welcoming and pleasant in her professional demeanor. She is knowledgeable in her area of expertise. I have no hesitation in recommending her to friends and family and have done so.
- Anonymous
With four locations throughout the Twin Cities metro area, Minnesota Eye is among the largest eye care providers in the Midwest. Schedule your oculoplastic evaluation today with Dr. Jill Melicher!
9801 Dupont Ave S
ASC: Suite 100
Laser Procedures: Suite 120
Clinic: Suite 200
Bloomington, MN 55431
