Blepharoplasty FAQ

What is blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure which can improve an aged, tired, droopy or swollen appearance to the eyelids. Upper blepharoplasty addresses sagging of the upper eyelids while lower blepharoplasty addresses under eye bags. Surgery may be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelid or both. During the procedure, excess fat and skin are removed and the underlying tissue is tightened, resulting in a more youthful, rested eye appearance.

How do I know if blepharoplasty is right for me?

If you are interested in improving the appearance of sagging upper eyelids or puffy under eye bags, blepharoplasty may be right for you. Patients are often looking to improve a tired-looking or aged appearance to the eyes. Candidates for blepharoplasty should also be physically healthy, should not smoke, and should be realistic in their goals for improvement. A consultation with Dr. Miller is the best way to determine if blepharoplasty can help you to achieve your desired look.

Where are the incisions located for blepharoplasty?

When performing upper blepharoplasty, Dr. Miller places the incisions in the upper eyelid crease. For lower blepharoplasty, the incisions may be located inside of the lower eyelids or just below the lash line. These incisions are well-concealed and fade over time to become barely visible.

How is blepharoplasty surgery performed?

Dr. Miller performs eyelid surgery at their JCAHO accredited office-based surgery facility, typically with local anesthesia. Excess skin is trimmed from the upper eyelids, while excess fat is trimmed from the lower eyelids and the underlying fibrous tissue is tightened. The incisions are then closed with fine sutures.

What can I expect the recovery to be like after blepharoplasty surgery?

Patients can expect a recovery period of about seven to ten days following blepharoplasty surgery. Swelling and bruising are common and patients may also experience some temporary blurred vision. Stitches are removed after three to four days and make-up can be worn after approximately five days to help conceal bruising. Patients who wear contact lenses can resume wearing their lenses after about two weeks. Patients can typically resume work and other non-strenuous activities after ten days, though exercise and more strenuous activities should not be resumed for three weeks or longer.