Blepharoplasty or Eyelid Surgery – What to Expect

Over time drooping upper eyelids, excess skin, and under-eye bags can lead to one’s face appearing aged or tired. Blepharoplasty, the procedural name for eyelid surgery, is a great procedure for individuals seeking to restore a more vibrant and rested look to their eyes. It can prove to have some functional benefits as well, such as improving vision by removing excess skin that obstructs the upper field of view.

Depending on a variety of factors one may opt for an upper lid, lower lid, or a double blepharoplasty (which combines the upper and lower eyelid).

Upper Blepharoplasty

An upper lid blepharoplasty can help improve drooping eyelids, reduce the appearance of hooded eyelids, and create a more refreshed and youthful look. Incisions are made along the natural creases of the eyelids to remove excess skin and extra fat if needed. Patients typically have very little discomfort with this procedure, an inconspicuous scar hidden in the upper lid crease, and the procedure can be performed under local anesthetic in the office with sutures being removed 5-7 days after the procedure.

Lower Blepharoplasty

A lower lid blepharoplasty can help address bulging lower lids, fat pads, extra skin, and/or a prominent “tear trough”. It can be performed to reposition the fat and tighten and smooth the lower eyelid skin. As with any procedure, it is important to have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure one has suitable anatomy for the procedure. Typically this procedure is performed in the operating room with anesthesia, internal incisions in the lower lid, as well as a skin resection below the lashes. These skin stitches are removed 5-7 days after surgery, and lid taping may be required for some weeks after surgery.

Blepharoplasty can be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with other facial rejuvenation surgeries, such as facelifts or brow lifts. Recovery time varies, but patients typically experience bruising and swelling for a week or two following the surgery. Most swelling resolves in 2 weeks for upper lid procedures and 6 weeks for lower eyelids.

To schedule a consultation for blepharoplasty, please call our office at 617-492-0620 today.