Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty ranks among the most popular facial surgeries in the U.S. due to its transformative results, and for good reason. This surgical procedure addresses the excess eyelid skin, fat deposits, and muscle laxity that create a tired, aged appearance around the eyes. Dr. Noah Sands brings specialized expertise in facial plastic surgery to every eyelid lift procedure, delivering outcomes that enhance both appearance and function while maintaining the natural character of each patient’s face.
Blepharoplasty rejuvenates tired-looking eyes by removing excess skin and fat for a more youthful, alert appearance. Transform tired, aged-looking eyes with expert blepharoplasty surgery that delivers natural, long-lasting results. Dr. Noah Sands combines precision techniques with artistic vision to restore your youthful eye contour.
Removes excess skin and fat from upper and lower eyelids to restore a refreshed, youthful appearance
Performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia or general anesthesia
Most patients return to normal activities within 10 to 14 days
Long-lasting results from blepharoplasty can last 5–10 years or longer, although aging continues
Blepharoplasty is eyelid surgery designed to correct excess skin, protruding fat, and muscle laxity affecting the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. As skin loses elasticity with age, the delicate tissue around the eyes becomes particularly susceptible to drooping and puffiness, often creating heavy eyelids that make patients look tired or older than they feel.
Upper blepharoplasty focuses on removing excess skin and fat that causes hooding of the upper lids. When severe, this sagging skin can actually obstruct vision by limiting the visual field. Lower blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags and the puffy appearance caused by fat herniation beneath the eyes.
The overall purpose of this procedure extends beyond cosmetic enhancement. Blepharoplasty is often performed to remove excess skin and fat from the eyelids, which can cause sagging eyebrows, droopy upper lids, and bags under the eyes, particularly with age. In addition to aesthetic reasons, blepharoplasty can address functional issues such as reduced peripheral vision caused by severely sagging skin around the eyes.
Understanding what happens during your eyelid surgery helps reduce anxiety and allows you to prepare appropriately for your procedure day.
During an upper blepharoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions in the natural crease of the upper eyelid to remove excess skin and fat, which are then closed to minimize visible scarring. This strategic incision placement means any resulting scar remains hidden within the eyelid’s natural fold.
Lower blepharoplasty can be performed through an incision just below the lower eyelash line or via a transconjunctival incision, which is hidden inside the lower eyelid, allowing for fat removal or repositioning without visible scarring. The transconjunctival approach works particularly well for patients whose primary concern is puffiness rather than loose skin on the lower lids.
In cases of significant droopiness of the lower eyelid, additional procedures such as canthopexy or canthoplasty may be performed to prevent further sagging and to reshape the outer corner of the eye. These adjunctive techniques strengthen the lateral canthal support to maintain optimal eyelid position.
The procedure typically takes one to three hours, depending on whether upper lid blepharoplasty, lower eyelid surgery, or a combination is performed. Most blepharoplasty surgery is completed under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia may be recommended for more extensive procedures.
Blepharoplasty effectively treats multiple conditions affecting the periorbital region:
Blepharoplasty targets the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. Upper lid procedures focus on the skin and fat above the eye between the brow and lash line, while lower eyelid surgery addresses the area from the lash line to the cheek. Some patients benefit from combining blepharoplasty with a brow lift when forehead descent contributes to upper lid heaviness.
Patients may seek blepharoplasty to improve their appearance and self-confidence, as many report feeling more youthful and alert after the procedure. The benefits extend across both aesthetic and functional dimensions:
Good candidates for blepharoplasty include healthy adults who have specific concerns about excess eyelid skin, under-eye bags, or vision obstruction from droopy eyelids. The ideal patient maintains realistic expectations for outcomes and understands that, while surgery can produce significant improvement, it cannot halt the aging process entirely.
Before scheduling blepharoplasty, you’ll meet with a health care provider, who may include a plastic surgeon or an ophthalmologist, to discuss your medical history and expectations for the surgery. During your consultation, a preoperative examination will be performed to determine whether you are a candidate for blepharoplasty, including a discussion of your health history and any medications that may affect the surgery.
Certain conditions may affect candidacy. Patients with severe dry eyes, thyroid eye disease, bleeding disorders, or eye conditions that affect eyelid function require careful evaluation. Those taking blood thinners or herbal supplements that affect clotting will need to stop taking these medications before surgery. It is important to stop using tobacco four to six weeks before your blepharoplasty surgery, as it can affect healing and recovery.
After blepharoplasty, patients can expect swelling and bruising around the eyelids, which typically resolve over 10 to 14 days. Understanding the recovery timeline helps you plan appropriately and achieve optimal results.
Immediate post-operative period (Days 1-3)
Patients are advised to keep their head elevated and apply cold compresses for the first 2 to 3 days post-surgery to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Antibiotic ointment is typically applied to the incision sites to promote healing and prevent infection.
First week
Common side effects in the first week include bruising, swelling, light sensitivity, and temporary blurred vision. The stitches placed to close incisions are usually removed within five to seven days. Avoid strenuous activities, bending, and direct sun exposure during this period.
Weeks two through four
It is common for patients to experience eyelid tightness and symptoms such as dryness, itching, and sensitivity to light after surgery, which usually subside within several weeks. Common side effects in the first two weeks include temporary swelling, bruising, dry or watery eyes, and sensitivity to light.
Long-term healing
Most people return to normal activities within 10 to 14 days, though full healing takes several months. Postoperative symptoms may include swelling, bruising, and temporary eyelid tightness, which typically resolve within a few weeks. Complete tissue settling and final refinement of results occur over three to six months.
The results of blepharoplasty become apparent gradually as swelling subsides and tissues heal. Within the first few weeks, patients notice a more alert, refreshed appearance around their eyes. The tired look created by heavy, drooping eyelids gives way to a naturally rejuvenated contour that enhances the entire face.
Long-lasting results from blepharoplasty can last 5–10 years or longer, although aging continues. The excess skin and fat removed during surgery do not return, though the natural aging process will eventually cause gradual changes. Many patients find that their results endure far longer than those achieved with non-surgical cosmetic procedures, making blepharoplasty an excellent investment in their appearance.
Dr. Noah Sands brings focused expertise in facial plastic surgery to every blepharoplasty procedure performed at his Beverly Hills practice. His approach emphasizes tissue-preservation techniques—repositioning fat rather than aggressive removal — to avoid the hollow appearance that can result from outdated methods.
Each patient receives an individualized evaluation and a customized surgical plan tailored to their unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Dr. Sands takes time to understand what bothers each patient about their eyelids and develops a strategy to address those specific concerns while maintaining natural facial harmony.
The Beverly Hills location offers a sophisticated environment where patients receive attentive care throughout their surgical journey. From initial consultation through complete recovery, Dr. Sands and his team provide the guidance and support needed to achieve excellent outcomes.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after blepharoplasty. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, ensuring comfort throughout. Postoperative discomfort is generally well-controlled with prescribed medication and cold compresses during the initial recovery period.
Long-lasting results from blepharoplasty can last 5–10 years or longer, although aging continues. The removed tissue does not regenerate, and while natural aging progresses, most patients enjoy their improved appearance for many years before considering any additional treatment.
Most people return to normal activities within 10 to 14 days, though full healing takes several months. Swelling and bruising largely resolve within the first two weeks, allowing return to work and social activities. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for about two weeks or as directed.
Yes, blepharoplasty is frequently combined with other facial plastic surgery procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation. A brow lift addresses forehead descent that contributes to upper lid hooding, while other cosmetic procedures like facelifts can restore harmony across the entire face. Dr. Sands can discuss which combinations best address your concerns during consultation.
Insurance coverage depends on whether the procedure addresses a functional problem or is purely cosmetic. When drooping upper eyelids obstruct the visual field, visual field testing can document this impairment, and the procedure may qualify as reconstructive surgery covered by insurance. Cosmetic blepharoplasty performed solely to improve appearance typically is not covered. Our office can help determine whether your situation may meet the criteria for medical necessity.
Like any surgery, blepharoplasty carries a minor risk of infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia. All surgeries, including blepharoplasty, carry risks such as reactions to anesthesia and blood clots. Risks of blepharoplasty may include eyelid malposition, temporary blurred or double vision, or, in rare cases, permanent vision loss. Rare complications of eyelid surgery can include dry eyes, difficulty closing the eyes, and changes in eyelid position. Dr. Sands discusses all potential risks during consultation and takes careful measures to minimize complications.
