Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)?

The best candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals generally 30 years old or older who are in good health and who have no other eye conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

Eye disease, such as glaucoma, dry eye, or a detached retina

Thyroid disorders, such as Graves’ disease and under or overactive thyroid

Cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or other circulatory disorders

Diabetes

Be realistic about the expectations you have for blepharoplasty. Eyelid surgery can enhance your appearance and help build your confidence. However, you should not expect the surgery to drastically change your look. Many people have eyes that are not perfectly aligned or that appear to be different sizes. Asymmetrical features occur during the early stages of development. Blepharoplasty will not alter your facial structure. It is important to know your face well before you decide to have surgery. Think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.

What can I expect from blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)?

Blepharoplasty takes 1-2 hours if both upper and lower eyelids are done at the same time, depending on whether fat is repositioned or if there is additional work to lift cheeks. There will be a stitch in both upper lids that will remain for about a week. The lower lids do not require sutures if the incision is made on the inside of the lid. It is common for swelling and bruising to occur in the upper and lower lids. Within one to two weeks the upper eyelids will look good. Upper lids show the incision line and take a bit longer than lower lids to look great. Expect to stay home from work and limit your activities for several days after surgery to allow your eyelids to heal. Some patients experience dry eyes after surgery, but the condition rarely lasts more than two weeks. If you have dry eyes for more than two weeks, contact your doctor.

Are the changes with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) permanent?

Blepharoplasty will not stop your eyes from aging. However, the results usually last a long time. Upper-eyelid surgery can last anywhere from 5 to 7 years to an entire lifetime, while lower-eyelid surgery rarely needs to be done more than once.

Are there possible complications with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)?

As with any surgical procedure, there is some degree of risk. Complications and bad results from blepharoplasty are rare, but sometimes they do occur. Problems that can occur include bleeding, infection, dry eyes, abnormal discoloration of the eyelids, abnormal folding in or out of the eyelid skin, an inability to fully close the eyes, a pulled-down, lower-lid lash line, or a possible loss of vision. However rare they might be, it is important to be aware of potential complications before you decide to have the surgery. Most patients have a very satisfactory result following the blepharoplasty procedure.