You may be considering eyelid surgery, medically known as blepharoplasty, to rejuvenate the area around your eyes. This procedure is very common, with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reporting that 120,747 people received eyelid surgery from ASPS member surgeons in 2023, an increase of 5% from 2022. If you’re considering whether blepharoplasty is right for you, you should know what eyelid surgery is and what you should expect from it.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes or repositions excess skin, fat, and muscle from the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper eyelids (upper bleph) to correct drooping lids or on the lower eyelids (lower bleph) to reduce puffiness and under-eye bags. While often done for cosmetic reasons, lower blepharoplasty can also improve vision in cases where sagging skin obstructs sightlines. This type of lower eyelid operation is commonly referred to as an eyelid tuck.
What Are The Goals of Eyelid Surgery?
Before deciding if eyelid surgery is for you, think about what you want to achieve. Many patients choose this cosmetic surgery to reduce excess eyelid skin that droops over the natural crease of the eyes. This excess skin can create a tired, sad, or aged appearance even when you feel wide awake. Eyelid surgery reveals more of the natural contours around the eyes, creating a more youthful and vibrant look.
The procedure can also improve vision obstructed by sagging upper eyelids. In some cases, excess fat and skin physically block your peripheral vision. Blepharoplasty may be medically necessary in these situations. For those with under-eye bags caused by fat deposits or loose muscle, lower bleph surgery can significantly reduce puffiness and shadowing under the eyes, making the surgery well worth it.
What Are the Types of Eyelid Surgery?
There are two main types of eyelid surgery: upper bleph and lower bleph. Upper blepharoplasty targets the upper eyelids by removing excess skin and, in some cases, tightening underlying muscles. It’s often chosen by patients experiencing drooping lids that interfere with their vision or make them appear constantly fatigued.
Lower blepharoplasty, on the other hand, focuses on the area below the eyes. This procedure is used to remove or reposition fat and tighten loose skin that contributes to bags, dark circles, and puffiness. Some patients may benefit from a combination of both, depending on their concerns. These procedures are commonly known as eyelid tucks and are among the most popular types of eyelid surgery performed today.
How Do I Know if I Need Eyelid Surgery?
Signs that you may benefit from an eyelid operation include persistent puffiness or bags under your eyes, excess skin on the upper lids that hangs over your lash line, or a tired, drooping appearance that doesn’t reflect how you feel. Functional symptoms, such as obstructed peripheral vision, are also a strong indication that surgery might help.
Other patients seek out an eyelid tuck when they feel their eyelids make them look older or less alert than they are. If makeup application becomes difficult due to heavy eyelid folds or if you frequently hear comments like “You look tired,” it might be time to consider whether blepharoplasty could provide a long-term solution.
How Long Does Eyelid Surgery Last?
The results of an eyelid tuck can be long-lasting. Upper blepharoplasty results typically last five to seven years, depending on your skin’s elasticity, sun exposure, and aging process. Lower blepharoplasty results often last even longer, sometimes for life, as fat and muscle removal or repositioning under the eyes tends to have more permanent effects.
Although blepharoplasty cannot stop the natural aging process, it can set the clock back significantly. Many patients find that even as they age, they still look noticeably younger than they would have without the surgery.
Is Eyelid Surgery Painful?
Eyelid surgery is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. It’s typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure. During the surgery, you won’t feel any pain, and post-operative discomfort is usually mild.
Most patients experience some swelling, bruising, and tightness for a few days after surgery. These symptoms are temporary and can be managed with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
What to Expect From an Eyelid Operation: Before and After
Before your eyelid surgery, you’ll have a consultation to review your medical history, discuss your goals, and determine the best surgical approach. You may be asked to stop smoking, avoid certain medications, and prepare your home for a comfortable recovery. Photographs will likely be taken to document your eyelid operation before and after.
During the procedure, incisions are made in natural creases or inside the eyelid to minimize visible scarring. Excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are removed or repositioned. The operation usually takes one to two hours.
After the surgery, expect some swelling and bruising, which should subside in 10 to 14 days. Most patients return to normal activities within a week or two. Final results, such as a smoother, more open eye area, become visible as healing progresses.
How Do You Know If You’re a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery generally have good health and don’t have serious eye conditions. You should also have realistic expectations and a specific concern to address, such as sagging upper lids, under-eye puffiness, or impaired vision. Good skin elasticity and strong facial muscles also help support a smooth recovery and optimal results.
If you’re seeking refreshed, natural-looking results from a procedure that targets aging or genetic traits around your eyes, an eyelid tuck could be the right option. Reviewing your eyelid operation before and after photos with your surgeon can help set realistic expectations and ensure you understand the potential outcomes.
Schedule an Eyelid Surgery Consultation in Richmond, VA, at Travis Shaw, MD
If you’re considering any cosmetic surgeries, including eyelid surgery, in Richmond or Midlothian, VA, Syngery Face + Body by Travis Shaw, MD, is here to help. When you’ve received a consultation and discussed your goals with our team, we’ll be happy to provide an upper blepharoplasty or lower blepharoplasty to help you look and feel your best.
Learn more about our eyelid surgery options today. If you’re ready to get started and want to schedule a consultation, please make an appointment!
