Upper eyelid blepharoplasty, commonly known as an eye lift, is performed to remove excess skin and fat from around the eyes that contributes to heavy upper lids and decreased peripheral vision. The procedure is often carried out for aesthetic purposes to give a more youthful appearance to the eyes, which makes blepharoplasty one of the most common plastic surgery procedures in the U.S.
Many different types of cosmetic and plastic surgeons perform blepharoplasties. Oculoplastic surgeons are uniquely qualified as they have completed a residency in ophthalmology and additional fellowship training in plastic surgery around the eyes. Insurance companies will sometimes cover a portion of the surgery, but they have strict criteria and some patients’ concerns will be deemed cosmetic.
Blepharoplasty is performed with either local anesthesia in the office or IV sedation in a surgery center and typically takes 30 minutes. Recovery to normal activity is within 1 week for most patients. Restrictions include no driving for the first week after surgery, no lifting greater than ten pounds and no strenuous activity. Bruising and swelling can be expected but fade within 2-3 weeks on average. Some patients have minimal bruising that resolves in 10 days, others may have swelling that lingers for a month. Please allow adequate healing time prior to any upcoming special events.