Unlocking the Secrets of Blepharoplasty: Your Complete Guide to Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasties, colloquially known as an eye lift or eyelid surgery, allow patients to remove excess skin from their eyelids to reveal a more youthful and rested appearance. Our eyelids are made of the thinnest skin in our bodies—unlike the majority of our skin, they contain no subcutaneous fat and measure in at about 0.05mm. Facial skin, in general, is often the first to show signs of aging due to sun exposure and our constantly fluctuating facial expressions. As the muscles in our faces flex and contract to express emotion, the skin and tissue around them stretch and weaken with age, causing the eyelids to droop. And, although society has become obsessed with preventative skin care over the last decade, there isn’t a cream or face mask in the world that will completely reverse the clock. Many patients turn to eyelid lifts to rejuvenate their eye area, and Dr. Barrett Plastic Surgery offers comprehensive Los Angeles blepharoplasties. If you’re considering the procedure, here is a complete guide to eyelid surgery. 

What is blepharoplasty? And who makes a good candidate?

A blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove extra skin from the upper or lower eyelids. In 2020, blepharoplasties were the second most popular cosmetic surgery, and for decades, they’ve continuously ranked in the top five. Patients seek this procedure to eliminate wrinkles, reduce sagging, or improve under-eye bags. Most candidates have experienced significant effects from aging, with their eyelids drooping after years of use. As we age, we lose collagen and elastin, and both proteins are responsible for our skin's laxity and suppleness. Since eyelid skin is so thin, the effects of aging are exacerbated, leading to increased sagging and puffiness. Eyelid surgery can serve aesthetic purposes, but it could be medically necessary for those who experience problems with their peripheral vision due to excessive drooping. 

However, aging isn’t the only reason people get blepharoplasties—some patients are genetically prone to puffy under eyes and dark circles and may desire to improve their appearance. Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery have good health with no underlying medical or vision issues that could impair healing. Individuals experiencing eyelid ptosis, which is a diagnosable medical condition that causes the eyelid to droop over the eye, require a different procedure and are not good candidates for blepharoplasties. 

Is there an age requirement for a blepharoplasty?

Since eyelid surgery can be performed for purely cosmetic reasons, there is no age requirement. Though patients are typically between their late 30s and early 60s, with 50+ being the sweet spot, there has been a recent surge in younger people seeking the procedure. Not only has work-from-home Zoom culture brought heightened awareness to our facial details, but people also consider blepharoplasties a “maintenance” procedure with preventative benefits. Regardless of age, eyelid surgery gives patients a well-rested appearance with brighter, wider eyes. American Society of Plastic Surgeons member Carolyn Chang, MD, noticed a change even before COVID, stating that “with an increased awareness of the overall cosmetic industry and its offering, patients are much more proactive and aggressive about maintaining a youthful appearance.” While getting a jump start on preventative cosmetic procedures is excellent, younger candidates should know they will most likely need a repeat procedure after 10-15 years. 

How does the surgeon perform an eyelid lift? What should patients expect?

Depending on the patient’s desires, blepharoplasties can target the upper eyelid, the under-eye area, or both. The surgeon will make incisions within the natural crease to remove excess skin and tissue and tighten the underlying muscles. Since the surgeon makes the incision inside the eyelid, there's no visible scarring for lower eyelid surgery. The Dr. Barrett Plastic Surgery team performs meticulous Beverly Hills blepharoplasties, using precise suturing techniques to close incisions that minimize tension and discomfort. Eyelid lifts can be performed in tandem with other procedures like eyebrow lifts or facelifts. 

The procedure takes around an hour under general anesthesia. Before the surgery, patients attend a consultation to work with the doctor and get a sense of realistic results. An eye exam is required to test tear production, measure the patient’s eye dimensions, and test for blind spots in the peripheral vision. The doctor provides pre- and post-op instructions, and patients should find a caregiver to assist after the surgery. 

What will recovery look like?

Directly after the surgery, staff members will monitor the patient for complications; normal temporary reactions include blurred vision from the lubricating ointment, watering eyes, double vision, and light sensitivity. Patients typically experience swelling and pain following the surgery that will diminish within a few days. The immediate recovery period lasts around four days, with patients seeing final results after three months. 

During recovery, patients are instructed to use ice packs to reduce swelling and any prescribed eye drops or ointments. Sunglasses will protect the skin of the eyelids from the sun and wind. Patients should avoid strenuous activity for a week and refrain from rubbing their eyes, smoking, or wearing contact lenses.

Are there risks to blepharoplasties?

Like all surgeries, there is the risk of blood clots, infection, and scarring. Finding a qualified, board-certified surgeon with a reputation for successful procedures significantly reduces the risk of complications. Other risks include:

• Skin discoloration
• Difficulty closing the eyes
• Dry eyes
• Eye muscle injury
• Temporary blurred vision
• Visual impairment

Are there non-invasive options?

For those interested in rejuvenating their eyes without surgery, there are non-invasive options to treat minimal drooping and sagging. Dr. Barrett Plastic Surgery offers alternatives like non-surgical brow lifts and other injectable treatments. Non-surgical options are a great fit for patients looking to correct minor concerns around the eyes, but blepharoplasties offer the most effective and long-lasting results. 

What are the next steps?

If you’re interested in a blepharoplasty in Beverly Hills, Dr. Barrett Plastic Surgery offers consultations to determine if the procedure is correct for you. To learn more about Barrett Plastic Surgery, subscribe to our blog and follow us on social media at TikTok, Instagram, Realself, and YouTube for updates. Are you interested in a blepharoplasty procedure? Call us at (310) 598-2648 or fill out this virtual consultation form, and we will contact you as soon as possible. We’re excited for you to take this next step!  

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