Upper and lower lid blepharoplasty are both procedures aimed at improving the appearance of the eyes, but they target different areas and address different concerns.
The goal of upper eyelid surgery is to remove excess skin and reshape the fat pads and muscle, if needed, from the upper eyelids. It helps correct drooping or sagging eyelids that can make a person look older or more tired than they are, and in severe cases, can even interfere with vision. The surgeon makes an incision along the natural crease line of the upper eyelid, through which excess tissue is removed or repositioned.
A lower lid blepharoplasty focuses on the area beneath the eyes. It’s used to address bags under the eyes, puffiness, excess skin, fine lines and wrinkles in the lower eyelid. During a lower lid blepharoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision either just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid, allowing them to remove or reposition fat, tighten muscles, or remove excess skin.
Before undergoing a blepharoplasty procedure, you’ll come to LUMEN for a consultation and to meet with the surgeon. We’ll discuss your goals, assess your overall health, and determine whether blepharoplasty is the right procedure for you. We’ll take photographs of your eyes from different angles, measure your eyelids, and test your tear production.
The doctor will review your medical history, including any previous surgeries, current medications, allergies, and lifestyle habits such as smoking. We’ll also perform an eye examination and possibly a physical examination to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery.
Then you’ll receive specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery. This often includes guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. If you’re on medications that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or specific herbal supplements, your doctor may advise you to stop taking them for a period before and after surgery.
The eyelid surgery procedure typically takes between one to two hours and is performed under local anesthesia. Your facial plastic surgeon will make incisions in the natural creases of the eyelids to minimize scarring. We’ll then remove excess skin and fat and tighten the remaining skin to create a smoother, more youthful appearance. In most cases, sutures are not needed.
After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few days. You’ll be given detailed post-operative instructions, and can alleviate most side effects with pain medication and cold compresses. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a week or two, although it may take several months for the full results of the procedure to be visible.
