Several factors, including aging, sun damage, smoking, stretching and obesity, can cause the eyelids to droop and sag as the supporting tissues deteriorate. This area is often one of the first to deteriorate, as the skin of the eyelid is thinner than the rest of the face. Eyelids that droop or bulge can cause people to appear much older or fatigued than they actually are.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids by tightening muscles and tissue or removing excess fat and skin. This procedure can be performed on men and women alike, and offers a younger, more refreshed look that reflects across the whole face.
Eyelid surgery is now the most popular facial plastic surgery procedure in Austin after rhinoplasty. The popularity of this procedure reflects the importance of the eyes in perfecting overall appearance. In fact, two-thirds of adults consider the eyes to be the defining feature of the face. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyes, you may want to consider blepharoplasty to improve your look and boost your confidence through a safe procedure with minimal downtime.
Eyelid Surgery Before and After
Types of Blepharoplasty
Functional Blepharoplasty
- This procedure may be necessary if the patient’s eyelids are sagging in their field of view. If deemed medically necessary, the patient’s medical insurance may cover it. Determining if the procedure is medically necessary can be done by an instrument called Humphrey Visual Field (HVF) Analyzer which checks the peripheral visual field.
Cosmetic Blepharoplasty
- Cosmetic blepharoplasty can be done on either the upper or lower eyelids. Lower eyelids are usually fat not skin that needs to be removed and can be done with a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. During a transconjunctival blepharoplasty an incision is made inside the lower eyelid where the fat will be removed, leaving no visible scars.
What Are the Ideal Candidates for Eyelid Surgery?
The best candidates for blepharoplasty are individuals who are in good overall health and who do not smoke or have any serious eye conditions. If you have loose, sagging skin or puffy bags around your eyes, this procedure can help reduce these unwanted effects and leave the eyes looking young and fresh.
It is important for patients to have realistic expectations before undergoing surgery in order to be satisfied with their results. While this procedure can enhance your appearance and may improve self-confidence, it cannot alter your entire appearance or change the structure of your face.
How Is Blepharoplasty Surgery Performed?
The blepharoplasty procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation. General anesthesia may be used for anxious or nervous patients. Patients may choose to have this procedure on their upper or lower eyelids, or both. Depending on these choices, the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours.
If the upper eyelid is being treated, an incision is made along the natural crease of the eyelid. Once the incision is made, Dr. Walden may reposition fat deposits, tighten muscles and tissue, or remove excess skin in order to leave the eye looking younger and refreshed. For the lower eyelid, an incision is made just below the lash line in order for excess skin to be removed.
After the procedure is performed, the incisions are closed with sutures, and usually wrapped in gauze to allow the area to heal.
What Will I Experience During Recovery?
After the blepharoplasty procedure, Dr. Walden may recommend applying lubricating ointment and cold compresses to help aid the healing process and minimize side effects such as swelling, bruising, irritation or dry eyes. The eyes may also be wrapped in gauze after the procedure.
Patients can usually return to work within two days, but should avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least two weeks. Swelling and other side effects usually subside within two weeks after surgery. Dr. Walden will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes are surgery.
How Long Do Results Last?
Results of a blepharoplasty procedure are visible as swelling and bruising subside, and will continue to improve for up to a year after surgery. This procedure is designed to produce long-lasting results. While surgery cannot prevent your eyes from aging, most patients are satisfied with their results and do not seek repeat procedures.
The scars from the blepharoplasty procedure are usually well concealed and will fade with time until they are virtually unnoticeable. The incision is hidden in the crease of the eyelid in an upper blepharoplasty, and just below the lashes in a lower blepharoplasty.
FAQs
What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty addresses drooping skin and excess fat in the upper eyelid, while lower blepharoplasty focuses on reducing puffiness, bags, and wrinkles beneath the eyes.
Can eyelid surgery be combined with other facial procedures?
Yes. Many patients combine it with facelifts, brow lifts, or non-surgical treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to blepharoplasty?
Options like injectable fillers, laser treatments, or skin tightening devices can help improve the eye area, but they cannot remove excess skin.
Is blepharoplasty painful?
Discomfort is usually mild and manageable with prescribed medication. Most patients describe the sensation as tightness rather than pain.
How long does it take for swelling and bruising to go away?
Most swelling and bruising resolve within two to three weeks, though subtle changes may continue to improve over several months.
Will I have visible scars after eyelid surgery?
Incisions are placed in natural creases or inside the eyelid, making scars well-hidden and minimal over time.
How do I know if I need functional or cosmetic blepharoplasty?
How soon can I wear makeup after eyelid surgery?
You can typically resume wearing eye makeup after about two weeks, once incisions have fully healed.
Are there risks or complications associated with blepharoplasty?
As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, dry eyes, or temporary blurred vision. Choosing a skilled surgeon reduces these risks.
Can this procedure help with vision problems caused by droopy eyelids?
Yes. Removing excess skin can improve your field of vision if drooping lids obstruct your eyesight. For patients experiencing significant visual impairment due to sagging eyelids, this can be both a functional and aesthetic solution. After recovery, many people notice not only clearer sight but also less eye strain and a more open, youthful appearance.
How do I prepare for my eyelid surgery?
Follow your surgeon’s preoperative instructions, which may include stopping certain medications, arranging for transportation, and avoiding smoking. You may also need to complete medical tests to ensure you are in good health for surgery. Preparing your recovery area at home with cold compresses, extra pillows, and easy-to-reach essentials can make the healing process smoother and more comfortable.
What type of anesthesia is used during the procedure?
Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia may be used, depending on the extent of the surgery and your comfort level.
Can men get eyelid surgery too?
Yes. Eyelid surgery is popular among both men and women seeking a refreshed, alert look.
How soon will I see results after the procedure?
Initial improvements are visible within a few weeks, with final results appearing as swelling subsides over a few months. While early changes can be encouraging, your eyelids will continue to refine and settle over time. By three to six months, you can expect the most natural and lasting outcome.
Schedule Your Consultation
Interested in learning more about eyelid surgery? Call Austin cosmetic plastic surgeon Jennifer Walden at 512-328-4100  to schedule your consultation today!
