Answers to Common Blepharoplasty Questions

Blepharoplasty is one of the most frequently performed facial plastic surgeries of our time. The procedure involves the repositioning and trimming of tissue either on the upper or the lower eyelids. The general purpose of blepharoplasty is to correct signs of aging such as hooded upper eyelids and puffy bags or shadows under the eyes. Each procedure is customized to the patient to achieve the most natural-looking rejuvenation possible. Well-performed blepharoplasty (done by a board-certified plastic surgeon) doesn’t look like surgery has been conducted. It looks like the eyelids are naturally smooth. With the popularity of blepharoplasty holding strong, we think it’s a great time to answer some of the common questions patients have.

What can I expect from blepharoplasty?

The overall result of blepharoplasty is that the eyes will look younger. A more detailed answer is that, if you have upper blepharoplasty, your eyes will look brighter and more open. Not like you’re surprised, but like you’re awake and have vibrant energy. If you have lower blepharoplasty done, your results will be that undereye bags are much less prominent if not smoothed away completely.

The results of blepharoplasty surgery start to become apparent about a week after surgery. Usually, patients are ready to return to work and other activities 7 to 10 days after their procedure, when swelling and bruising have decreased. The final outcome of blepharoplasty is reached 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Although aging will affect the skin around the eyes again at some point, most people do not need a second blepharoplasty to maintain a more youthful appearance. The scars from blepharoplasty incisions are hidden.

How is blepharoplasty performed?

Eyelid rejuvenation surgery is an outpatient procedure. Unless this procedure is combined with others, such as a mid-face lift or brow lift, it may be performed in the office using a local anesthetic, which is injected into the skin similarly to dermal fillers. Before surgery, the eyelids are marked to outline where repositioning and trimming will occur. Patients should have someone drive them to their appointment and see them safely home.

Are there alternatives to blepharoplasty?

Depending on the problems you wish to correct, there may be alternatives to blepharoplasty. Mild to moderate puffiness or hollowness under the eyes are sometimes corrected with dermal fillers. Sometimes, the upper eyelids can be subtly rejuvenated by injecting Botox along the curve just above the eyebrows. This is only effective if upper eyelid heaviness is caused or worsened by the downward pull on the eyebrows. Injectables can be convenient but they are a temporary solution to aging eyelids. Blepharoplasty has become a preferred technique due to its lasting results.

​You can have the youthful-looking eyes you want with a simple, outpatient procedure. Call 314-567-3567 to schedule a consultation at our St. Louis or St. Peters office.