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Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of the single most visually rejuvenating facial procedures available today — largely because when others look at a person’s face, the eyes are the focal point of the face. As you age, the skin on your eyelids begins to loosen and droop, which gives the eyes a tired, sad, or grumpy appearance. Blepharoplasty removes excess fat, skin, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. This corrects drooping upper lids and puffy bags below the eyes, which creates a more rested appearance. A laser is used for the procedure, resulting in less recovery time and better aesthetic results.

What is Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure that improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It involves removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle around the eyes to create a more refreshed, youthful look. Over time, the eyelid skin naturally stretches and the muscles weaken, leading to droopy lids, puffiness, or under-eye bags. Blepharoplasty addresses these changes by tightening the tissue and restoring a smoother, more defined eyelid contour.

Although it’s often performed for cosmetic reasons, the surgery can also have functional benefits—particularly when heavy or sagging upper eyelid skin begins to interfere with peripheral vision. The procedure is typically outpatient, meaning patients return home the same day, with a recovery that includes some swelling and bruising but generally quick healing. Overall, cosmetic eyelid surgery is a highly effective way to rejuvenate the eye area and enhance both appearance and, in some cases, visual comfort.

Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery Treatment

This procedure may be carried out at an outpatient surgical facility or at a hospital. Dr. Engen and Dr. Call consults with each patient to determine the best place for the surgery to be performed and whether local or general anesthesia will be used.

Typically, the needed sutures are removed one week following the procedure, and most patients are prescribed antibiotics during the first week as well.

Patients should expect some swelling and/or bruising right after the surgery, which can be present for 1-2 weeks.

Each patient should consult with their oculoplastic surgeon before resuming full activity — this is usually possible within one week of the procedure, especially if they follow the instructions given to them after the surgery and during subsequent follow-up visits.

Ptosis Repair

Ptosis repair is a medical procedure used to correct drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition known as ptosis, which can affect one or both eyes and sometimes interfere with vision or appearance. Ptosis occurs when the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid become weakened or stretched due to aging, injury, nerve issues, or congenital factors. The condition is typically remedied through a minor surgical procedure that tightens or repositions these muscles to restore the eyelid to a more natural, functional position. When performed by an experienced eye specialist, ptosis repair can improve both vision and eye symmetry with long-lasting results.

Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery FAQs

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What is the cost for Blepharoplasty?

The cost of blepharoplasty varies, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the amount of time it will take to perform. Costs normally fall between $2200- $3600. The costs may be reduced if the surgery is performed in conjunction with another procedure under the same anesthesia.

What kind of results can I expect from Blepharoplasty?

Patients are generally extremely pleased with their blepharoplasty results. Most report looking younger and more refreshed. Patients will notice a decrease in the eyelid fatigue when using the eyes for extreme periods. Finally, if there is significant skin redundancy, patients will have a marked improvement in their field of vision. Patients often comment that friends and acquaintances comment that they look rested and energetic, but often can’t pin down exactly what the physical difference is.

What is the recovery time of Blepharoplasty?

Recovery time varies from patient to patient, but most report full recovery within a few weeks. Sutures are generally removed at one-week post surgery. Patients are instructed to apply cool compresses to their eyelids and keep their head elevated for the first 72 hours post operatively. These recovery tactics can have a significant effect on the amount of time that is needed for full recovery.

Does my insurance cover Blepharoplasty?

This procedure may be covered by your insurance carrier. In most cases, your insurance covers the initial exam, required testing, and the surgical procedure if the redundant skin is determined to be causing visual impairment. Blepharoplasty is an effective and affordable way to reduce the effects of aging on the face.

Is Blepharoplasty an "eyelid lift"?

Blepharoplasty is also referred to as an “eyelid lift”. This term is actually incorrect. The eyelid is actually not surgically lifted during the procedure. However, the upper eyelid will open more by reducing the weight from the excess skin and fat. The procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat. It can be performed on the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or both. In both cases, incisions are made in the natural wrinkles or inner part of the lid to prevent the incisions from being visible.

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