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Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic or functional surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both to improve vision, reduce puffiness, and create a more youthful appearance.

Why is Blepharoplasty Done?

  • Cosmetic reasons:
    • Reduces droopy eyelids and under-eye bags
    • Creates a more youthful and refreshed appearance
    • Enhances the natural contour of the eyelids
  • Medical reasons:
    • Improves vision impaired by sagging upper eyelid skin
    • Reduces eye strain and forehead wrinkles caused by lifting heavy eyelids
    • Corrects functional issues like entropion (inward-turning eyelid) or ectropion (outward-turning eyelid)
Blepharoplasty Surgery

Types of Blepharoplasty

  • Upper Blepharoplasty – Removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid to improve vision and aesthetics.
  • Lower Blepharoplasty – Removes or repositions fat from under-eye bags and tightens sagging skin.
  • Double Eyelid Surgery – Creates a crease in the upper eyelid for those who have monolids (popular in East Asian countries).

How is the Procedure Performed?

  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia is used.
  • Incision:
    • Upper eyelid: The incision is made along the natural crease.
    • Lower eyelid: The incision may be made just below the lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach).
  • Tissue Removal & Repositioning: Excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed or repositioned to smooth and tighten the area.
  • Closure: The incisions are closed with fine sutures or surgical adhesive to minimize scarring.
  • Recovery: The procedure takes 1-3 hours, and patients can return home the same day.

Recovery and Aftercare

  • Swelling and bruising are common for the first 1-2 weeks.
  • Cold compresses help reduce swelling.
  • Avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
  • Use prescribed eye drops or ointments to prevent dryness or infection.
  • Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling.
  • Sutures are usually removed in 5-7 days if non-dissolvable ones are used.

Risks and Complications

While generally safe, possible risks include:

  • Temporary dry eyes, irritation, or blurred vision
  • Scarring (minimal if done correctly)
  • Asymmetry or unsatisfactory cosmetic results
  • Difficulty closing the eyes (rare)
  • Infection or excessive bleeding
  • Temporary swelling or bruising

Cost of Blepharoplasty

  • Cosmetic blepharoplasty: Typically not covered by insurance and ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 per eyelid procedure.
  • Functional blepharoplasty (for vision improvement): May be covered by insurance if medically necessary.

Who is a Good Candidate?

  • Healthy individuals without serious eye conditions
  • People with sagging, droopy eyelids or under-eye bags
  • Non-smokers with realistic expectations

Results and Longevity

  • Results are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying benefits for 10-15 years or more.
  • Aging continues, but the improvements from blepharoplasty remain noticeable.

Would you like details on non-surgical alternatives, combining procedures (like brow lifts), or choosing a surgeon?