Upper/Lower Blepharoplasty

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is a facial plastic surgery procedure that can resolve aesthetic and functional issues with the eyelids. The plastic surgeons at Renaissance Plastic Surgery offer upper blepharoplasty for the upper lids and lower blepharoplasty for the lower lids. Upper and lower blepharoplasty can also be combined when patients have concerns in both areas.

Upper blepharoplasty, or upper eyelid surgery, involves the excision of excess skin, fat removal, and gently lifting upper eyelid tissue to give the eyes a more open, rested appearance. This procedure is often necessary to correct vision problems caused by drooping upper eyelids. In such cases, it is referred to as functional upper blepharoplasty.
Lower blepharoplasty, or lower eyelid surgery, can eliminate under-eye bags. During this surgery, fat pads under the eyes are removed. This procedure does not get rid of dark under-eye circles but can be combined with non-surgical skin treatments to minimize this issue. Our surgeons often recommend laser skin resurfacing in combination with eyelid surgery to reduce under-eye dark circles, smooth away fine lines, and provide overall improvements in texture.

The Right Candidate

The best candidates for these procedures are people looking for an effective and long-lasting way to rejuvenate their eyelids and facial appearance. Candidates must be generally healthy and free of any chronic illnesses that could hamper their recovery.

Non-smokers are preferred, as smoking increases the likelihood for complications. However, patients who commit to abstaining from smoking several weeks before and after surgery can also be candidates.

The Blepharoplasty Consultation

Prior to upper or lower eyelid surgery, the patient will need to come in for a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. The patient will discuss his or her cosmetic concerns and desired treatment outcome with the surgeon. The surgeon will thoroughly examine the patient’s eyelids and assess their facial tissue and structure.  Additionally, the surgeon will review the patient’s complete medical history, including allergies and current medications.

The surgeon will then develop a customized care strategy for accomplishing the patient’s aesthetic and/or functional goals. Procedure details, along with pre-operative and post-operative instructions will then be reviewed.

What to Expect During a Blepharoplasty Procedure

Eyelid surgery takes around two hours if both the upper and lower eyelids are being addressed together. In such cases, surgery is first performed on the upper lids, followed by the lower lids.

For upper blepharoplasty, a small incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid. For lower eyelid surgery, one of two incision locations may be chosen. One is right below the lash line of the lower lid. This is called the transcutaneous incision. The other option, inside the lid, is called the transconjunctival incision and is chosen specifically to address excess fat.

Once the incisions have been made, excess skin is removed. Muscle tissues are tightened, and excess fat is removed and/or repositioned. Finally, the incisions are closed with very small stitches.

Blepharoplasty Recovery and Aftercare

After an eye lift, patients must be driven home by a friend or a family member. Remember to arrange for this in advance. Patients must take time off from work to rest, and physically taxing activities must be avoided. You will also be advised to keep your head raised. 

It is normal to have swelling and bruising in the treatment area. You can apply cold compresses to ease swelling and discomfort. These symptoms typically resolve within 10-15 days after surgery.

During the recovery and healing process, it will be vital to protect your eyes and eyelids from wind and sun exposure. Sunglasses are quite helpful, as is application of a proper sunscreen. You may find you have dry eyes post-treatment. You can use moisturizing eye drops, as directed, until this symptom is resolved. 

Full recovery for upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty is typically two to three weeks, depending on the patient. Patients who undergo upper blepharoplasty only can anticipate a shorter recovery period.

Blepharoplasty Results

Most patients notice initial results within two to three weeks. As the healing process progresses over the weeks to come, ongoing improvements can be expected. It typically takes about six weeks to see the full effect of a blepharoplasty procedure.

Blepharoplasty results can last for several years. There are several things you can do to help extend the longevity of your enhanced look, including practicing healthy lifestyle habits and being diligent about protecting your eyes from sun exposure.

The skin rejuvenation experts at Renaissance Plastic Surgery can also provide personalized recommendations for anti-aging in-office and at-home skincare treatments.

How Much Does Blepharoplasty Cost?

To determine the cost of upper and lower blepharoplasty procedures, factors like anesthesia fees are taken into account. Additionally, price can be impacted by the treatment techniques employed and the total time needed for the doctor to perform the surgery.

The cost of cosmetic blepharoplasty is not covered by health insurance providers. Functional blepharoplasty to restore one’s field of vision may be covered by health insurance. You will need to speak with your insurance provider to find out if you have coverage for your procedure.

Contact Us

If you are considering blepharoplasty in Lapeer, Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair, or Wayne County, contact Renaissance Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation. Our team looks forward to helping you look and feel your best!