What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a refined surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The eyes are often the first facial feature to show signs of aging, with drooping upper lids and puffy bags beneath the eyes creating a tired, aged appearance despite adequate rest. Blepharoplasty addresses these concerns by removing or repositioning excess skin and fat, tightening underlying muscles when necessary, and creating a smoother, more refreshed eye area. Beyond aesthetic enhancement, upper eyelid surgery can also improve peripheral vision in cases where significant hooding has begun to obstruct sight. This procedure can be performed alone or in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures for comprehensive results.
Expert Video Insights
Watch Dr. Shikha talk about specific details, recovery information, and patient experiences through these informative videos
Types of Blepharoplasty
Our clinic offers several specialized approaches to eyelid surgery, each tailored to address specific concerns:
- Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: Removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids to reduce hooding and create a more open, refreshed appearance.
- Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty: Addresses bags and puffiness beneath the eyes, often repositioning rather than removing fat to prevent a hollow appearance.
- Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty: Accesses lower eyelid fat through an incision inside the eyelid, leaving no visible external scarring.
- Canthopexy/Canthoplasty: Tightens or repositions the outer corners of the eyes for additional support during lower eyelid surgery.
- Asian Blepharoplasty: Creates or enhances an upper eyelid crease while preserving ethnic identity.
- Functional Blepharoplasty: Focuses on improving vision impairment caused by excessive upper eyelid skin.
The Blepharoplasty Procedure
During upper eyelid surgery, carefully placed incisions are made within the natural crease of the upper eyelid, allowing excess skin, muscle, and fat to be removed or repositioned. For lower eyelid surgery, incisions are typically made just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach). After administering anesthesia—usually local with sedation—the surgeon precisely removes or redistributes tissue to create the desired contour. Particular attention is paid to preserving natural eye shape and function while achieving aesthetic improvement. Fine sutures are used to close the incisions, which are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours depending on whether both upper and lower eyelids are being treated and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Recovery and Results
Following blepharoplasty, patients can expect mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and temporary tightness around the eyes, which generally peaks within 48 hours and gradually subsides over 1-2 weeks. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated while sleeping help minimize swelling. Most patients report minimal discomfort that can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Stitches are typically removed within 4-7 days, and most individuals can return to work and light activities within 7-10 days, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for approximately 3 weeks. While initial improvements are visible once swelling decreases, final results continue to refine over 1-3 months as tissues heal completely. Results from blepharoplasty are long-lasting, though the natural aging process continues, with most patients enjoying their refreshed appearance for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals troubled by excess skin or fat in the eyelids, under-eye bags, or drooping upper lids that may affect vision. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes. Most blepharoplasty patients are 35 or older, though the procedure can be appropriate for younger individuals with genetically inherited traits like puffy lower lids. Certain medical conditions, particularly those affecting the eyes such as dry eye syndrome, thyroid disorders, or glaucoma, may impact candidacy. A thorough consultation will evaluate your ocular health, facial anatomy, and aesthetic goals to determine if blepharoplasty is appropriate for you.
When performed by a qualified surgeon, blepharoplasty should not negatively impact vision or eye function. In fact, upper eyelid surgery can improve peripheral vision in cases where excessive skin has created functional obstruction. During your procedure, great care is taken to remove an appropriate amount of tissue while preserving essential eye functions. Some patients may experience temporary dryness or irritation during the healing process, which typically resolves within a few weeks. Your surgeon will provide detailed pre-operative evaluations to ensure that the procedure is safe for your specific eye anatomy and health conditions.
Blepharoplasty incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. For upper eyelids, incisions are hidden within the natural crease of the eyelid. For lower eyelids, incisions are either placed just below the lash line, where they blend with the natural texture of the skin, or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach), leaving no visible external scar. While initially the incision lines may appear pink or slightly raised, they typically fade to thin, barely perceptible lines within 3-6 months. Proper sun protection during the healing phase helps minimize scar visibility.
Blepharoplasty provides long-lasting results, with many patients enjoying their refreshed appearance for 10-15 years or more. Upper eyelid surgery results may last 5-7 years, while lower eyelid results often last a lifetime, as the fat deposits that cause under-eye bags typically don’t return once removed. However, the natural aging process continues, and skin elasticity will gradually decrease over time. Factors affecting longevity include genetics, sun exposure, skincare habits, and overall health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using quality skincare products, and practicing sun protection can help extend the lifespan of your results.
Yes, blepharoplasty is frequently combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures for comprehensive results. Common combinations include facelift, brow lift, fat grafting, laser resurfacing, and non-surgical treatments like Botox or dermal fillers. Since aging rarely affects just one facial area, this integrated approach can create more harmonious, balanced rejuvenation. When multiple procedures are performed together, patients benefit from a single recovery period rather than multiple separate recoveries. Your surgeon can recommend the most appropriate combination based on your specific concerns and aesthetic goals to ensure natural-looking results that enhance your overall facial appearance.