Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to restore the eyes by reducing common signs of aging. While blepharoplasty is typically cosmetic, older patients may receive surgery to improve their eyesight and peripheral vision.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is the medical term for eyelid surgery. The surgery corrects signs of aging around the eyes by removing excess skin and fat pads that are causing the eyelids to droop and sag. You may receive eyelid surgery on the upper or lower eyelids or both.
Before your surgery, you will be placed under IV sedation or general anesthesia for your comfort. Most surgeries take 1-2 hours unless you combine blepharoplasty with another surgery.
For upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Holley places the incision on the natural crease, removing the excess skin and fat. Lower eyelid surgery depends on the goals. The incision is made under the lashes if only excess skin is removed. If you wish to remove the fat pads, Dr. Holley may make an incision inside the lower eyelid.
Eyelid Surgery
Before & After Photos
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
What to Expect from Recovery from Blepharoplasty
After surgery, we may use an ointment to keep your eyes moist and cold compresses to minimize swelling and bruising. You will need someone to drive you home and assist with your care for the first 24 hours.
You may experience tightness around the eyes, swelling, bruising, eye dryness, tearing, sensitivity to light, or temporary blurring of vision. Most side effects only last a week, and most return to work in 7-10 days; however, full healing may take up to six weeks.
We recommend using ice packs on the eyes and sleeping with the head elevated for the first night. Dr. Holley will give detailed instructions on your individual recovery care, including concerns to watch for during your healing process, follow-up appointments, and any medication to take.
What Results Should I Expect from Eyelid Surgery?
You may notice an improvement in lower eyelid hollowing and the removal of dark circles under the eyes. Many patients experience a rejuvenation of their youth. Patients receiving surgery for functional reasons may experience improvement in peripheral vision.
Blepharoplasty lasts 5-7 years, depending on your lifestyle, age, and personal goals. Lower eyelid surgery rarely is repeated. If you experience consistent sagging of the eyelids, you may require a brow lift instead of another eyelid lift.
Consultations Available Now
Take the first step. Get your questions answered by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff for an in-person consultation. Simply fill out the form, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.
Request a consultationAm I a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
If you have droopy eyelids that affect your peripheral vision, under-eye bags, or sagging skin on the eyelids, you are likely a good candidate for blepharoplasty. You must have good overall health and realistic expectations for the results. Patients often combine blepharoplasty with a facelift, neck lift, or brow lift for maximum effect.
Take the Next Step
Would you like to learn more about blepharoplasty? Simply fill out the form on this page or call West Michigan Plastic Surgery at (269) 222-1611 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Scott Holley, a Board-Certified plastic surgeon. Proudly serving Kalamazoo and the greater Southwest Michigan area.
