Eyelid
Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Overview
What is eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)?
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic and functional surgical procedure that enhances the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle. The procedure can:
- Reduce droopy upper eyelids that create a tired or aged appearance.
- Eliminate under-eye bags and puffiness for a refreshed look.
- Improve vision if sagging eyelid skin obstructs sight.
Eyelid surgery is a popular anti-aging procedure, as the eyes are often the first area to show signs of aging. The result is brighter, more youthful, and alert-looking eyes.
How does blepharoplasty improve facial appearance?
Eyelid surgery:
- Lifts sagging upper eyelids to create a more open, youthful expression.
- Removes excess skin that contributes to a tired or heavy look.
- Eliminates under-eye bags and puffiness.
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.
- Enhances facial symmetry and balance.
How common is eyelid surgery?
Blepharoplasty is one of the most popular facial plastic surgeries, with over 325,000 procedures performed annually in the U.S.. It is frequently done alone or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures.
Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?
The ideal candidate for blepharoplasty:
- Has sagging, droopy upper eyelids or excess skin that affects vision.
- Has under-eye bags, puffiness, or wrinkles.
- Is in good overall health and has realistic expectations.
- Does not have serious eye conditions such as dry eye syndrome or glaucoma.
- Does not smoke or is willing to quit before and after surgery.
Procedure Details
Types of Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty can be customized to address the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
1. Upper Eyelid Surgery
- Removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids.
- Corrects droopy lids that make the eyes look tired or obstruct vision.
- Often combined with a brow lift for optimal results.
2. Lower Eyelid Surgery
- Eliminates under-eye bags and puffiness.
- Tightens loose or sagging skin below the eyes.
- May involve fat repositioning to smooth hollows and shadows.
3. Double Eyelid Surgery (Asian Blepharoplasty)
- Creates a defined upper eyelid crease for patients with a monolid.
- Enhances eye shape and contour for a more awake appearance.
Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Eyelid Rejuvenation
- Surgical Blepharoplasty – Provides long-lasting, dramatic improvement.
- Non-Surgical Options (Fillers, CO2 Laser, RF Skin Tightening) – Can improve mild under-eye hollows, wrinkles, and skin laxity, but results are temporary.
What happens before eyelid surgery?
Before surgery, patients must:
- Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best approach.
- Undergo an eye examination to check for any pre-existing conditions.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements to reduce bleeding risk.
- Plan for recovery, as swelling and bruising will last for several weeks.
What happens during eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia and typically takes 1–2 hours.
The general steps include:
- Incision Placement – The surgeon makes incisions along the natural eyelid crease (upper eyelid) or just below the lash line (lower eyelid).
- Excess Skin and Fat Removal – Loose skin and fat deposits are removed or repositioned.
- Tightening and Reshaping – The eyelid muscles and tissue are adjusted for a smoother, youthful look.
- Closing the Incisions – Sutures are placed, and cold compresses are applied to reduce swelling.
For lower eyelid surgery, a transconjunctival incision (inside the eyelid) may be used to avoid external scarring.
Risks / Benefits
What are the benefits of eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery provides significant improvements in both appearance and function, including:
- Brighter, more youthful-looking eyes.
- Elimination of heavy, drooping upper eyelids.
- Reduction of under-eye bags and puffiness.
- Enhanced vision if sagging eyelids were obstructing eyesight.
- Minimal scarring, as incisions are well-hidden in natural creases.
What are the risks of eyelid surgery?
While blepharoplasty is safe and effective, potential risks include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising – Common in the first 1–2 weeks.
- Dry eyes or irritation – Can be managed with eye drops.
- Scarring – Incisions are hidden but may take months to fade.
- Asymmetry – Slight differences in healing can affect final results.
- Temporary blurry vision – May occur due to swelling but resolves within days.
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in eyelid surgery helps reduce risks and achieve the best results.
Recovery and Outlook
How long does recovery take after eyelid surgery?
Recovery depends on the extent of the procedure, but general timelines include:
- First 3–5 days – Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Patients must use cold compresses and sleep with their head elevated.
- Week 1–2 – Most swelling and bruising gradually fade. Sutures are removed around day 5–7.
- Weeks 3–6 – Final shape and contour become more apparent.
- Months 3–6 – Full results are visible as all residual swelling resolves.
Patients should avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sun exposure for at least four weeks to optimize healing.
How long do eyelid surgery results last?
Eyelid surgery results are long-lasting, often 10–15 years or more, but natural aging will continue. Maintaining good skincare, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle helps prolong youthful results.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients combine blepharoplasty with:
- Facelift (Rhytidectomy) – Lifts and tightens the lower face and neck.
- Brow Lift – Elevates drooping brows and smooths forehead wrinkles.
- CO2 Laser Resurfacing – Improves skin texture, tone, and fine lines.
- Fat Transfer or Dermal Fillers – Restores volume in hollow areas for a softer look.
Final Thoughts on Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure that refreshes and rejuvenates the eyes. Whether performed for cosmetic enhancement or to improve vision, blepharoplasty provides natural, long-lasting results with minimal downtime.
At BodEvolve, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in customized eyelid surgery techniques, ensuring precise, natural, and youthful outcomes.
If you are considering eyelid surgery, schedule a consultation today to explore your options.
Call (214) 831-6182 or request an appointment online.