The eyelids, along with other areas of the face and neck, may exhibit wrinkles and bulges due to either hereditary factors or the aging process. Pouches at the inner aspects of the upper lids and in the lower lids are generally due to increased pressure due to accumulations of fat above and below the eyes. Such excess fat is removed or repositioned along with the excess skin in the procedure.

If both upper and lower eyelid correction is recommended, they are done at the same time. The operation takes about two to three hours; however, the patient is sedated and feels virtually no pain or discomfort. The patient is then discharged when fully alert.

There is usually little or no pain in the post-operative period. Each operation is followed by varying degrees of swelling and discoloration which usually subside within ten days. By this time, too, the thread-thin scars can be successfully camouflaged by make up. These scars gradually blend in well with the surrounding skin and become perceptible only on close scrutiny after several months have passed. The sutures are removed at four days.

Q&A

How soon after surgery will I be presentable to the public?
In approximately one week, most, if not all bruising is gone and make up can be safely worn.

Will blepharoplasty remove crow’s feet and fine lines around my eyes?
Blepharoplasty softens the bulges under the eyes and removes excess skin, but commonly a chemical peel or laser is used for these lines.