A blepharoplasty is a surgical rejuvenating procedure that may be performed on the upper and/or lower eyelids.

An upper blepharoplasty may include excision of drooping eyelid skin, repair of the muscle that opens the eyes, and removal of excess fat.

A lower blepharoplasty corrects undereye bags with repositioning and possible removal of redundant fat and skin. It also treats sagging lower lids that may reveal excess white space beneath your iris (the colored circular portion of your eyes surrounding your black pupil).

Upper Lid Blepharoplasty

As we age, the decline in collagen and elastin production can cause eyelid skin to sag, leading to a condition known as eyelid ptosis. This occurs when the skin’s descent becomes noticeable, and can be caused by the detachment of fibers connecting the eye-opening muscles. In some cases, fat can protrude into the thin eyelid tissue due to weakened connective fibers, resulting in puffy and droopy eyelids. Brow ptosis can also contribute to eyelid ptosis, requiring a brow lift for correction. To develop an effective treatment plan, it’s essential for a plastic surgeon to identify the underlying cause of eyelid ptosis. Additionally, the surgeon will assess for dry eyes and adjust the surgical procedure and post-operative care accordingly.

Lower Lid Blepharoplasty

The lower eyelids also undergo significant changes with age. The skin in this area becomes thinner, while the underlying connective and soft tissues weaken, causing them to sag and bulge into noticeable bags. Additionally, fluid accumulation in these areas can exacerbate the appearance of under-eye bags, further contributing to a tired and aged look.

Am I a good candidate for Blepharoplasty surgery?

The Procedure

Upper Blepharoplasty

To address eyelid concerns, your plastic surgeon will create a precise incision along the natural crease of your eyelid. This allows for the removal or repositioning of excess skin and herniated fat, effectively rejuvenating the area. The incision is then carefully closed, resulting in a discreet scar that typically heals well and blends seamlessly into the natural eyelid crease.

Upper Blepharoplasty

There are various techniques for lower blepharoplasty, and your surgeon will choose the best approach for your individual needs. They may make an incision along your lower lash line or inside the lower lid, along the conjunctiva. Fat is then repositioned, and in some cases, a small amount of fat may be removed. Depending on the degree of laxity in the lower lid, your surgeon may also perform an additional procedure to support the outer corner of the eye. This can involve either a canthopexy, which securely anchors the outer corner of the eye to prevent further sagging, or a canthoplasty, a more extensive procedure that reshapes and reattaches the tissues to achieve a more youthful appearance.

Recovery

Before and after pictures

Possible Risks with Blepharoplasty Surgery

Blepharoplasty Results

Upper eyelid surgery is good for at least 5-7 years, and the results may last the rest of your life. Lower eyelid surgery rarely needs to be repeated. Of course, your eyes will still age after the procedure. If your lids sag again, a forehead lift rather than another eye lift may be the preferred procedure. Keep in mind that you won’t immediately look your best after surgery. You’ll have bruising and swelling for up to about 2 weeks, and small scars that will take a few months to fade completely. However, once you have healed fully, you can expect to look more youthful and better rested, which should help you feel more self-confident. And, if your vision had been affected by your eyelids, you should be able to see better.

After the surgery

Your doctor will probably put ointment in your eyes to keep them moist and cover them with cold compresses while you’re in the recovery room. Right after surgery, you may have blurry vision from the ointment and be sensitive to light. Your eyes may feel dry or watery. It will help to put ice packs on your eyes and sleep with your head raised the first night after surgery. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions for taking care of yourself.

Blepharoplasty Results

Your doctor will probably put ointment in your eyes to keep them moist and cover them with cold compresses while you’re in the recovery room. Right after surgery, you may have blurry vision from the ointment and be sensitive to light. Your eyes may feel dry or watery.

It will help to put ice packs on your eyes and sleep with your head raised the first night after surgery. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions for taking care of yourself.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

If you are in good overall health, at least 30 years old, and have no other eye problems, you are likely a good candidate for blepharoplasty. If you’ve been diagnosed with health conditions, it doesn’t rule you out for eyelid surgery. However, you should talk to your eye doctor about your health history. Make sure to mention whether you have any of the following conditions:

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