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Blepharoplasty

As we age, the eyelid may become droopy, block vision, and cause us to look tired due to excess skin on the upper eyelids, a weak muscle causing ptosis, issues in eyebrow position, or bulging of the eyelid fat pads. At Vance Thompson Vision, our subspecialty trained oculoplastic surgeon takes a comprehensive approach to upper and lower blepharoplasty by tailoring surgery to address each patients’ unique needs.

Upper Blepharoplasty

A common treatment for sagging, droopy, or excess eyelid skin is blepharoplasty. A blepharoplasty is a procedure that reshapes sagging eyelids by removing and repositioning excess skin and removing fat.

Most patients opt for blepharoplasty because of excess upper eyelid skin that hangs down over the eyelashes, blocking the outer and upper parts of the visual field. By removing this skin, patients experience improved vision along with eyes that appear more open, refreshed, and youthful.

Patients may also opt for blepharoplasty for elective reasons, such as a feeling of heaviness, looking tired, or disliking their excess skin.

Procedure Time 25 minutes

Recovery 10-14 days

Follow-up 1 week

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty is a procedure to address the puffy or tired looking under eyes. It may be performed for patients ranging in age from 30s to elderly.

Lower lid fat pads are gently sculpted or repositioned to fill a deep under eye hollow. When performing lower blepharoplasty, excess under eye fat is addressed, along with aged skin. Additional treatments, such as laser resurfacing, can be performed at the time of lower blepharoplasty to give the under eyes a refreshed, more youthful appearance.

Procedure Time 1-1.5 hours

Recovery 10-14 days

Follow-up 1 week

Before & Afters

This patient came in for a consultation and we recommended an upper and lower blephoraplasty to repair the droopy, tired upper eyelids and puffy lower eyelid bags. (Photos taken approximately three months apart.)

This patient came to us with droopy, tired upper eyes. We recommended a bilateral upper blepharoplasty and ptosis repair. (Photos taken approximately three months apart.)

After consulting with our team, we recommended deep laser resurfacing, blepharoplasty, and brow lift. All three of these services were done during one appointment. Downtime for a combination procedure like hers that is done in the OR can last up to 1 week, with 3-8 weeks of visible redness. This patient also received lip and cheek filler in our clinic.

What to Expect

Prior to surgery, a detailed examination will be performed along with supportive testing. Your doctor will create a surgical plan customized to your specific needs. A blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure that lasts 30-60 minutes, performed in office or in our surgery center.

For upper eyelid blepharoplasty, incisions are made within the natural crease of your eyelid, allowing the removal of excess skin and/or the tightening of muscles and tissue. The incision is hidden nicely within the natural lid crease and often is not noticeable once healed.

For lower eyelid blepharoplasty, Dr. Keenum prefers a scarless, transconjunctival approach to address the excess lower eyelid fat. Laser resurfacing, chemical peel, skin pinch, or a combination of these may be performed along with the blepharoplasty to rejuvenate aged skin.

Scarring of incisions is typically minimal as the eyelid has excellent blood supply and healing in this area is generally very good. Your eyes will likely need to be lubricated after surgery. Oral medications will help with pain and discomfort. Your surgeon will also prescribe an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.

You will experience swelling and bruising for a week or two following surgery. For the first ten days after the procedure, you should avoid wearing makeup and contact lenses. Strenuous activities such as lifting, bending, and exercise should be avoided for one week after surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is upper blepharoplasty?

An upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure used to remove excess upper eyelid skin and repositions the upper eyelid to eliminate drooping which results in a refreshed, lifted look to the eyelid. If droopy eyelids are a concern, upper blepharoplasty can be combined with ptosis surgery to correct the condition.

What is lower blepharoplasty?

A lower blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure used to remove excess skin, reposition fat, and address undereye bags.

How much does upper and lower blepharoplasty cost?

The cost of blepharoplasty varies depending on which specific surgical procedures you choose—upper, lower, or both—and which additional treatments you and your doctor decide are right for you. The final cost can also be affected by your insurance coverage.

How long does a blepharoplasty last?

Your eyes will continue to age after surgery, but results are long-lasting. An upper blepharoplasty can last anywhere from 7 years to a lifetime, and lower lid surgery rarely needs to be readdressed.

Does medicare cover blepharoplasty?

Medicare may cover upper blepharoplasty, depending on your specific circumstances. Lower blepharoplasty is never covered by medicare. Our patient counselors will help you understand the cost of surgery and the best options for your budget and lifestyle.

Is blepharoplasty covered by insurance?

Upper blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance, but lower blepharoplasty is self-pay. Our knowledgeable patient counselors will walk you through the financial aspects of surgery to determine the best options for your lifestyle and budget

Want to find out more?

Questions about blepharoplasty? Call us! Our team can answer many common questions, or put you in touch with a team member who can. If you’re ready, they can also schedule a consultation with our experienced doctors.