Blepharoplasty (BLEPH)
Surgical eyelid rejuvenation for a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the eyelids. An upper ‘bleph’ removes any skin that may be causing drooping of the upper lids and/or impacting vision. A lower ‘bleph’ removes the fatty pads/bags found underneath the eyes.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as “bleph” or eyelid surgery, is a precise surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes by addressing excess skin, muscle, and fat around the eyelids. This transformative procedure can dramatically improve both the function and aesthetics of the eye area, creating a more alert, youthful, and refreshed appearance.
As we age, the delicate skin around our eyes begins to lose elasticity, and the muscles supporting the eyelids weaken. This natural aging process, combined with genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle factors, can lead to drooping upper lids, under-eye bags, and a tired or aged appearance that may not reflect how you feel inside.
Types of Blepharoplasty
Upper Blepharoplasty Upper eyelid surgery addresses excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat in the upper eyelids. This procedure:
- Removes drooping skin that may obstruct vision
- Eliminates hooding that makes eyes appear smaller
- Creates a more defined eyelid crease
- Opens up the eye area for a more alert appearance
- Can improve peripheral vision when excess skin is significant
Lower Blepharoplasty Lower eyelid surgery targets the under-eye area to:
- Remove or reposition fatty deposits that create "bags"
- Tighten loose skin and muscle
- Smooth out wrinkles and fine lines
- Reduce the appearance of dark circles
- Create a more youthful, rested look
Combined Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty Many patients choose to have both upper and lower procedures performed simultaneously for comprehensive eyelid rejuvenation and optimal results.
Conditions Addressed
Blepharoplasty can effectively treat:
Functional Issues:
- Excess upper eyelid skin affecting vision
- Heavy, drooping eyelids causing eye fatigue
- Difficulty applying makeup due to excess skin
- Interference with reading or driving
Aesthetic Concerns:
- Puffy upper eyelids
- Under-eye bags and fatty deposits
- Loose, wrinkled eyelid skin
- Tired or aged appearance
- Asymmetrical eyelids
- Deep tear troughs
- Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes
Benefits of Blepharoplasty
Functional Improvements:
- Enhanced peripheral vision
- Reduced eye strain and fatigue
- Easier makeup application
- Improved comfort when wearing glasses or sunglasses
Aesthetic Enhancements:
- More youthful, alert appearance
- Brighter, more open eyes
- Reduced signs of aging
- Improved facial harmony
- Enhanced self-confidence
Long-Lasting Results:
- Results typically last 10-15 years or longer
- Natural-looking improvement that ages gracefully
- Permanent removal of excess skin and fat
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
Consultation and Planning During your comprehensive consultation, we will:
- Evaluate your eyelid anatomy and skin quality
- Discuss your goals and expectations
- Review your medical history
- Explain the surgical technique best suited for you
- Provide detailed pre and post-operative instructions
- Answer all your questions about the procedure
Surgical Technique
Upper Blepharoplasty Process:
- Local anesthesia for comfort
- Precise incisions made along the natural eyelid crease
- Excess skin, muscle, and fat carefully removed or repositioned
- Incisions closed with fine sutures
- Procedure typically takes 1-2 hours
Lower Blepharoplasty Process:
- Incisions made just below the lower lash line or inside the eyelid
- Fat repositioned or removed to eliminate bags
- Excess skin trimmed if necessary
- Muscles tightened for better support
- Incisions closed with fine sutures
Recovery Process:
- Same-day outpatient procedure
- Detailed post-operative care instructions provided
- Follow-up appointments scheduled
Recovery and Healing Timeline
First 24-48 Hours:
- Some swelling and bruising is normal
- Keep head elevated when resting
- Take prescribed medications for comfort
- Avoid strenuous activities
First Week:
- Sutures typically removed after 5-7 days
- Bruising and swelling begin to subside
- Light activities can be resumed
- Avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise
- Use gentle eye makeup remover if needed
2-4 Weeks:
- Most swelling and bruising resolved
- Return to normal activities and exercise
- Results become more apparent
- Makeup can be applied normally
- Sun protection is essential
3-6 Months:
- Final results become fully apparent
- Scars fade and become barely visible
- Complete healing achieved
- Natural-looking, long-lasting results
Ideal candidates
Blepharoplasty may be right for you if you:
Physical Characteristics:
- Have excess skin on upper or lower eyelids
- Experience sagging or drooping eyelids
- Have puffy bags under your eyes
- Have realistic expectations about results
- Are in good overall health
Lifestyle Factors:
- Don't smoke or are willing to quit before surgery
- Can take time off for recovery
- Are committed to following post-operative instructions
- Want long-lasting improvement
Age Considerations:
- Typically performed on patients 35 and older
- Can be performed at younger ages if genetics cause early aging
- No upper age limit for healthy patients
Results and Expectations
What to Expect:
- Natural-looking rejuvenation
- More alert, youthful appearance
- Improved eyelid function if vision was affected
- Enhanced facial harmony
- Boost in self-confidence
Realistic Outcomes:
- Blepharoplasty turns back the clock but doesn't stop aging
- Results look natural, not "overdone"
- Scars are typically well-hidden and fade over time
- Most patients are extremely satisfied with results
Longevity:
- Results typically last 10-15 years or longer
- Aging continues naturally but from an improved baseline
- Touch-up procedures rarely needed
Complementary Procedures
Blepharoplasty can be combined with other treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation:
Surgical Options:
- Facelift or mini-facelift
- Brow lift
- Fat grafting to restore volume
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Botox for crow's feet and forehead lines
- Dermal fillers for tear troughs and temples
- Laser treatments for skin texture
- Chemical peels for skin smoothing
Pre-Operative Preparation
Medical Preparation:
- Recent eye exam
- Stop certain medications as directed
- Arrange for transportation and post-operative care
- Fill prescriptions in advance
Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery
- Avoid alcohol for 48 hours before procedure
- Stay hydrated and get adequate rest
- Plan time off work (typically 1-2 weeks)
Home Preparation:
- Prepare comfortable recovery area
- Arrange help with daily activities
- Have emergency contact information ready
FAQ's
Will insurance cover my blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance if excess skin significantly impairs vision. A visual field test may be required to document functional impairment.
How visible will my scars be?
Incisions are strategically placed in natural eyelid creases and along the lash line, making scars virtually invisible once healed.
Can I wear contact lenses after surgery?
Contact lenses should be avoided for about 2 weeks after surgery to allow proper healing.
When can I return to work?
Most patients return to work within 7-10 days, though this varies based on the extent of surgery and individual healing.
Will my eyes look natural?
When performed by an experienced surgeon, blepharoplasty results look completely natural and enhance your existing features.
How long do results last?
Results typically last 10-15 years or longer, and while aging continues, you’ll always look better than if you hadn’t had the procedure.
Can blepharoplasty be repeated?
While results are long-lasting, touch-up procedures can be performed years later if desired.
Why Choose Swann Dermatology Partners for Blepharoplasty?
Expertise and Experience: Our surgeons have extensive experience in eyelid surgery and understand the delicate anatomy of the eye area.
Personalized Approach: Every procedure is customized to your unique anatomy, goals, and lifestyle needs.
Comprehensive Care: From initial consultation through complete recovery, we provide attentive, professional care every step of the way.
Natural Results: We pride ourselves on creating natural-looking results that enhance your appearance without looking “done.”
Safety First: Your safety is our top priority, with comprehensive pre-operative evaluation and careful post-operative monitoring.
Ready to Rejuvenate Your Eyes?
Don’t let tired, aging eyes make you look older than you feel. Blepharoplasty can restore a more youthful, alert appearance while potentially improving your vision and quality of life. Our experienced team at Swann Dermatology Partners is ready to help you achieve the refreshed, confident look you desire.
During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your individual needs, discuss your goals, and create a personalized surgical plan. Contact us today to learn more about blepharoplasty and take the first step toward more youthful, beautiful eyes.
