Blepharoplasty

Eyelid Surgery

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, gives patients a more rested and refreshed appearance by removing excess skin and fatty deposits surrounding the eyes. In some cases there may also be visual improvement, particularly in peripheral vision since the eyelid skin is no longer obstructing vision.

For upper blepharoplasty the goal is primarily to remove upper eyelid skin and in many cases upper eyelid fat. We aim to create a pleasing upper lid contour and return the patient’s eye shadow space to their more youthful appearance. In cases where vision is impaired, upper eyelid surgery may be covered by insurance. Based on physical exam findings and a noninvasive visual field test, doctors can determine which patients qualify for functional blepharoplasty.

As we age, under eye circles or tear troughs become more evident. Some patients also have lower eye bags from fatty deposits. Lower blepharoplasty aims to remove excess skin and fat and  soften and raise the lid-cheek junction to a more youthful position. In some patients, significant cheek lifting is achieved through lower eyelid incisions to counter the vertical descent of the mid-face. This can be combined with a traditional facelift and customized for each patient.

Eyelid surgery may be enhanced by adjunct procedures such as dermal fillers, fat injections, Botox^®, and laser skin resurfacing. Crow’s feet can be effectively softened with Botox^®, while skin texture and fine lines can benefit from lower eyelid laser resurfacing.