Eyelid Aesthetics

What is Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty? Eyelid Surgery for a Refreshed Look

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the upper and/or lower eyelids by removing excess skin, tightening muscles, and reducing puffiness or under-eye bags. As one of the most delicate areas of the face, the eyes play a vital role in facial expression and perceived age. Over time, factors such as aging, genetics, and lifestyle can lead to drooping eyelids, puffiness, or a tired appearance—even when you’re well-rested.

Upper and lower blepharoplasty help restore a more youthful, alert, and refreshed look by reshaping the eyelids for a smoother, firmer contour. This surgical enhancement is not only cosmetic but can also improve vision in cases where sagging upper eyelids obstruct the field of view.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore what blepharoplasty involves, who it’s best for, what to expect during recovery, and why it’s one of the most sought-after facial rejuvenation procedures worldwide.

Why Get Eyelid Surgery? Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty Benefits

The skin around the eyes is thin and sensitive—often the first to show signs of aging. Upper and lower blepharoplasty offers a lasting solution to address:

Sagging or droopy upper eyelids
Under-eye bags or puffiness
Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes
Heavy or tired-looking eyes
Obstructed peripheral vision
Excess upper eyelid skin interfering with makeup application

Blepharoplasty restores a more open, rested, and youthful eye area, enhancing both aesthetic appearance and functional performance in many cases.

Who is a Good Candidate for Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty?

You may be a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery if you:

Are in good overall health
Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
Are bothered by sagging eyelid skin, puffy eyes, or eyelid heaviness
Experience vision obstruction due to drooping upper lids
Do not have serious eye conditions such as dry eye, glaucoma, or retinal problems

While blepharoplasty is most commonly performed on patients aged 35 and above, younger individuals with hereditary under-eye bags or eyelid droop may also benefit.

What is Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty targets the excess skin and fat in the upper eyelids that may cause hooding or a tired appearance. The surgeon makes a fine incision along the natural crease of the eyelid, removes redundant skin or fat, and repositions tissues for a more defined and lifted eyelid contour.

This procedure can also enhance vision when drooping skin impairs the upper visual field.

What is Lower Blepharoplasty?

Lower blepharoplasty is performed to correct under-eye bags, puffiness, and sagging in the lower eyelid area. Depending on the case, the procedure may involve:

Removing or repositioning herniated fat pads
Tightening loose skin
Smoothing the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek

The incision is typically made either just below the lash line (subciliary approach) or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach) for scarless results in select cases.

How is Blepharoplasty Performed?

Eyelid surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure.

Upper blepharoplasty: 30–60 minutes
Lower blepharoplasty: 45–90 minutes
Combined upper and lower eyelid surgery: 1.5–2.5 hours

Your surgeon will determine the best surgical approach based on your anatomy, skin quality, and desired outcome.

Blepharoplasty Recovery: What to Expect After Eyelid Surgery

Recovery from upper and lower blepharoplasty is generally quick and well-tolerated, with most patients returning to normal activities within 7 to 10 days.

Post-Surgery Timeline:

Days 1–3: Mild swelling, bruising, and tightness; cold compresses are recommended
Week 1: Stitches are removed (if non-dissolvable); makeup and contact lenses may be avoided
Week 2: Swelling significantly improves; most people resume work and social life
1–3 months: Final results become visible as tissues settle and incisions fade

Patients should sleep with their head elevated, avoid strenuous activities, and protect the eyes from sun exposure during the healing period.

Are Blepharoplasty Results Permanent?

Yes, blepharoplasty results are long-lasting. While surgery cannot stop the natural aging process, the improvements in eyelid contour and skin tightness are typically maintained for 10–15 years or more.

Factors that influence longevity include:

Skin type and genetics
Sun exposure and lifestyle habits
Aging process and overall health

Maintenance treatments like skin resurfacing or non-surgical tightening can further prolong results.

Can Blepharoplasty Be Combined with Other Procedures?

Absolutely. Blepharoplasty is often combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures for a more comprehensive transformation, such as:

Facelift or neck lift
Brow lift (forehead lift)
Laser resurfacing or chemical peels
Fat grafting or fillers for volume restoration

Your surgeon will develop a customized treatment plan based on your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Eyelid Surgery Costs: What Affects the Price?

The cost of upper and lower blepharoplasty varies depending on:

Whether one or both eyelids are treated
Surgeon’s experience and credentials
Anesthesia and facility fees
Geographic location of the clinic
Whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously

Although exact pricing varies, investing in an experienced, board-certified surgeon ensures safe results and natural rejuvenation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Have Visible Scars After Eyelid Surgery?

No. Incisions are placed within the natural eyelid creases or inside the lower eyelid, making scars virtually invisible once healed.

When Can I Wear Makeup After Blepharoplasty?

Most patients can resume wearing makeup 7–10 days after surgery, once the incisions have healed and stitches are removed.

Is Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Discomfort is generally mild and well-managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers.

How Long Does Swelling Last?

Swelling typically peaks within 2–3 days and resolves substantially within 7–14 days. Minor residual swelling may persist for a few weeks.

Can Blepharoplasty Fix Dark Circles?

Blepharoplasty can improve puffiness and hollowness under the eyes, which often contribute to the appearance of dark circles. However, pigmentation issues may require additional treatments such as laser therapy or topical solutions.