What to Expect After Blepharoplasty?

Although signs of aging can creep up gradually, we often notice them first in the eye area. The upper eyelids can droop and form wrinkles, while the undereye area can develop puffiness and bags that make you look like you never get enough sleep. Blepharoplasty can help you look alert and refreshed, transforming your entire face.

What is Blepharoplasty or an Eyelid Lift?

The procedure known as an eyelid lift, eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both. This procedure tightens loose skin and smooths away wrinkles, reduces puffiness, and restores a bright-eyed appearance. This procedure effectively corrects some of the earliest, most bothersome signs of aging.

What to Expect During Blepharoplasty

Because blepharoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, it is usually performed using local anesthesia and IV sedation. This combination keeps you comfortable and relaxed without the risks of general anesthesia. It takes two hours or less, and someone can take you home shortly afterward.

During an upper blepharoplasty, incisions are made in creases of the eyelid skin. On the lower lid, they may be hidden within the eyelid or under the lash line. The incisions are closed with sutures, and we will provide instructions to help them heal and fade quickly.

What to Expect After Blepharoplasty

One of the biggest factors in what happens after your eyelid lift is how well you care for yourself, listen to your body’s needs and follow your surgeon’s instructions. Most people heal very quickly and without complications.

Recovery

You may experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness around the eye area after eyelid surgery. You will need someone to drive you home, and you will receive detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions. Ice packs are usually recommended to reduce swelling.

Most people can return to light activities, including work, within about a week. You will see your surgeon for several follow-up visits, and they will usually clear you to return to your exercise routine after two to three weeks.

Results

You may have some minor eyelid swelling for several weeks after your procedure, so your results will continue to improve. The results of an eyelid lift can last fifteen years or more, although you will still experience signs of aging.

You can prolong your results by protecting your eyes from the sun with hats and sunglasses, avoiding exposure, and using medical-grade skincare products. Non-surgical treatments can also help keep your eye area looking refreshed and smooth.

Upper vs. Lower Blepharoplasty: Which Do I Need?

Determining whether you need to address your upper or lower eyelids requires a consultation. Your surgeon will review your concerns and develop the best surgical plan for your needs. Many people have concerns about the entire eye area and choose to combine upper and lower blepharoplasty.

Upper Blepharoplasty

You may benefit from this procedure if you want to treat:

Wrinkled or crepey eyelid skin
Drooping upper eyelids
Tired-looking eyes

People who have an upper blepharoplasty may even find that the removal of excess skin improves their peripheral vision.

Lower Blepharoplasty

This procedure may be recommended to address the following:

Puffiness
Undereye bags
Drooping lower lids

Getting rid of undereye bags can dramatically improve your tired appearance and help you look energized.

Can I Have Other Procedures With an Eyelid Lift?

Many people choose to combine their blepharoplasty with another procedure. Many people who have upper eyelid concerns also have issues with drooping brows that give the eyes a “hooded” look. A brow lift, also called a forehead lift, smooths wrinkles, tightens loose skin, and restores your expressive, youthful brow arches.

Individuals having a facelift often choose to include blepharoplasty for a fully rejuvenated appearance. You can also combine an eyelid lift with injectable treatments such as Botox® or skin resurfacing treatments to keep the area bright and smooth.

Am I a Good Candidate For Blepharoplasty?

Because aging can start to affect the eyes at an earlier age than many other areas, the average age for a person seeking blepharoplasty ranges from the late 30s to 40s. Your surgeon may recommend this procedure if you are a healthy adult with realistic expectations who wants to improve the appearance of your upper or lower lids.

Certain people should not have blepharoplasty, including those who are not healthy enough for surgery, people with certain eye or other medical conditions, or those who are pregnant. There is no upper age limit on blepharoplasty as long as you are in good health and can heal properly.

Take the Next Step – Request a Consultation

Want to learn more about blepharoplasty? Schedule your consultation online or by calling Specialty Aesthetic Surgery at (212) 737-8700. We look forward to working with you!

Specialty Aesthetic Surgery serves the greater NYC metro area.

About Our Surgeons

Bruce Moskowitz is an experienced and board-certified oculoplastic surgeon. His practice encompasses all areas of oculoplastic cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He has a well-known reputation for revision surgery, and a large portion of his practice comes from other colleagues to revise sub-optimal outcomes.

Grigoriy Mashkevich is an experienced and double-board certified facial plastic surgeon. He belongs to a highly select group of surgeons with a focused specialization in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the nose, face, and neck.

Dr. Anna Frants is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is experienced in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Her areas of expertise include surgery of the face, neck, nose, eyelids, eyebrows, and ears.

*Individual results may vary