Blepharoplasty (Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery) - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is becoming a popular cosmetic procedure. Below are answers to some of the frequently asked questions about the procedure.

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure which helps to reduce sagging eyelids and fat stores under the eye. Procedures are performed on both the upper and lower lid to achieve a fuller and more open eye shape.

Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty?

As with any surgery, a candidate should be in relatively overall good physical health and not smoking. Consulting with your cosmetic surgeon will help determine if you may have any unusual risks concerning specific conditions you have or medications you are taking.

Both men and women pursue blepharoplasty to help reshape the eye, reduce bagging eyelids, or reduce fat stores underneath the eye which make the patient look tired and haggard.

What results can I expect?

Results of eyelid surgery are typically very long-lasting and very rarely require touch-up procedures. After fat stores underneath the eye are removed, they will not reappear. Some patients choose to combine eyelid surgery with a brow lift, rhinoplasty procedure, or BOTOX® treatment to maximize the results of the surgery.

How much scarring will I experience?

Scars will fade over time, but are strategically placed within the natural crease of the eyelid or underneath the lid to reduce their noticeability.

Will eyelid surgery eliminate my dark under-eye circles?

No. Though the procedure can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles, this condition will typically require a chemical peel or laser resurfacing to eliminate them.

What will my recovery period be like?

Each patient's recovery will be different from the next. If removable sutures are used, they will be taken out after three to five days of the procedure. Some patients are able to return to work in as little as a week, but others may prefer to wait for two to three weeks.

Bruising and swelling will gradually decrease and disappear over a period of about four to eight weeks. During this time, makeup and cold compresses may be used to mask these effects. Your surgeon will also most likely prescribe ointments and eye drops to be used in the first few weeks to encourage healing and reduce your chances of side effects or infection.