Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

The area around the eyes is one of the first places to show aging, and the first place others look. Sagging eyelid skin or under-eye bags can make you look tired, make the eyes appear smaller, and in severe cases obstruct vision.

Blepharoplasty can address the upper lids, the lower lids, or both — treating loose skin, sagging muscle, or puffy protruding fat. Because the brow and eyelids often age together, your consultation determines whether a brow lift would help too.

Usually performed under local anesthetic (or general if combined with other facial surgery), the procedure takes one to two hours as a day surgery. Upper-lid incisions hide in the natural crease; lower-lid incisions sit inside the lid or just below the lashes, so they are hidden or barely noticeable.

Fat and muscle are removed or repositioned, excess skin is removed, and fine sutures are placed.

Healing is quick with minimal pain. Bruising and puffiness peak the day after and continue for three to seven days — cold compresses and keeping your head elevated help. Keep contact lenses out for a week, and expect some dryness, tearing or blurriness for a few days. Most symptoms resolve by one week, when work resumes.