Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can help correct drooping eyelids, bags under the eyes, and other eyelid flaws that can contribute to a tired, aged appearance. An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon at Kelsey-Seybold can restore your natural upper eyelid contour for a brighter, more energized appearance and reduce puffiness under and around the eyes.

Performed alone or in combination with other facial plastic surgeries, eyelid surgery can include removal and/or contouring of fat deposits, removal of excess skin, and tightening of the skin and/or muscles, taking years off the face.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Eyelid surgery isn’t right for everyone. Certain medical or eye conditions may rule eyelid surgery out for some individuals. Eyelid surgery typically isn’t advised for anyone with uncontrolled glaucoma, dry eye, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, as these conditions may elevate the risks involved in surgery.

For individuals who don’t fall under any of the aforementioned exclusions, the ideal candidate includes those who have puffy upper eyelids, tired looking eyes, excess upper eyelid skin, and are at least 18 years old and in good physical and mental health.

What Eyelid Surgery Entails

For lower eyelids, your plastic surgeon will make an incision below the lower lashes in a discreet location or a hidden incision behind the eyelid. Excess fat and skin are removed. If needed, fat is redistributed to minimize swelling and puffiness and muscle looseness is corrected.

For upper eyelids, the surgeon will make incisions in the natural creases of the upper lids so if there’s any scarring, it will be hidden. Any excess skin that’s obstructing vision or causing a droopy or tired look is trimmed. The remaining skin is lifted and reattached for a smoother, more youthful, and refreshed appearance. Experienced, board-certified Kelsey-Seybold surgeons are able to avoid the “wide awake” look that comes from overcorrection.

There are risks with eyelid surgery that should be considered in advance. These can include ectropion (drooping that causes the lower lid to invert and requires additional surgery to correct), hematoma or blood accumulation under the skin, infection, scarring, excessive tearing, or dryness.

For most people, eyelid surgery provides dramatic results that generally last for years.