Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)
Sagging eyelids or puffy under-eye bags may disproportionately age your appearance, or make you look tired when you are not. An eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to improve their appearance. This treatment targets both the upper and lower eyelids, eliminating droopy lids, bags under the eyes, and excess skin that can impair vision and make you look tired or aged. Performed by expert, board-certified facial cosmetic surgeons, blepharoplasty can provide a refreshed and youthful appearance.
Blepharoplasty techniques
The eyelid lift procedure varies slightly for the upper and lower eyelids, but both remove excess skin and/or fat to create a smoother, more refreshed appearance. Patients may have upper and lower blepharoplasty together in one procedure, if needed.
Upper eyelid lift
During an upper blepharoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in the natural crease of the eyelid to minimize visible scarring. The surgeon then removes excess skin and removes or repositions fat. If necessary, they will also adjust the muscle to lift droopy eyelids. The incision is then closed with fine sutures or surgical glue.
Lower eyelid lift
In a lower blepharoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision either just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid (a transconjunctival incision). Excess fat is removed or repositioned to reduce bags under the eyes, and excess skin may also be removed. The incision is then closed with sutures, or simply left to heal naturally in the case of an incision within the lower lid.
Who is a good candidate for an eyelid lift?
Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are non-smokers in good overall health. If you have droopy eyelids, bags under the eyes, or excess skin around the eyes that impairs vision, then you may benefit from this procedure. It is also important to have realistic expectations about the results that your surgeon can achieve through this surgery.
- Key Benefits
- Terms to Know
- Restores youthful appearance
- Removes sagging skin
- Reduced bags and dark circles under the eyes
- Improves vision if droopy lids were interfering with sight
Bilateral Ptosis: A condition where both upper eyelids droop due to weakening of the levator muscle or nerve damage.
Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelids, often causing symptoms like redness, swelling, itching, and a feeling of dry eye.
Blepharoplasty: A surgical procedure performed by a surgeon to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. It involves the removal of excess skin and fat, addressing symptoms of heavy or ptotic eyelids.
Blepharoptosis: Another term for ptosis, it refers to the drooping or falling of the upper eyelid.
Botox® & Dysport®: Neurotoxins used in non-surgical treatment options to alleviate certain eyelid conditions by temporarily relaxing the muscles around the eyes.
Droopy Eyelid: A condition where the edge of the upper eyelid falls to a position that is lower than normal, often due to age, muscle weakness, or nerve damage.
Dry Eye: A condition characterized by insufficient moisture in the eyes.
Excess Skin: Extra or sagging skin that can accumulate over time due to aging, often resulting in a heavy or hooded appearance of the eyelids.
Eyelid Ptosis: A condition characterized by the drooping or falling of one or both of the upper eyelids.
Fat Transposition: During eye surgery, repositioning or removing excess fat, i.e. to reduce under-eye puffiness.
Graves’ Disease: An autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid, leading to symptoms like bulging eyes or dry eye.
Heavy Eyelids: A condition characterized by excess skin, muscle, and fat in the upper eyelid, often causing a weighed down or droopy appearance.
Hooded Eyes: A term often used to describe eyelids that appear heavy or droopy due to excess skin covering the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
Lazy Eye: Also known as amblyopia, a vision development disorder where one eye doesn’t achieve normal visual acuity.
Levator Muscle: The primary muscle responsible for lifting the upper eyelid. Weakness or damage to this muscle can cause ptosis.
Ptosis: A condition characterized by drooping or falling of the upper eyelid. If severe enough and left untreated, the drooping eyelid can limit or block normal vision.
Ptotic Eyelids: A term used to describe eyelids suffering from ptosis or droopiness.
Ptosis Surgery: Addressing underlying muscles of the eyelids that contribute to eyelid drooping, when needed; can be combined with blepharoplasty.
Skin laxity: Skin laxity refers to the loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin. This condition is typically characterized by sagging or loose skin and is usually a natural result of the aging process, in which the skin’s production of collagen and elastin—proteins responsible for maintaining skin’s tightness and elasticity—slows down. Environmental factors, such as sun exposure and lifestyle choices, can also contribute to skin laxity. Treatments like topical products, laser therapy, and surgical procedures can be used to improve the appearance of lax skin.
Side effects, risks, and complications
Swelling, discomfort, and bruising are normal reactions after surgery, and patients should expect these side effects. As with any surgical procedure, blepharoplasty has potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, and visible scarring. Other risks unique to eye lift surgery include worsened dry eye after surgery or difficulty closing the eyes. However, these risks are minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon. Visit our guide to researching & choosing a surgeon »
Preparing for your eyelid lift
Pre-surgery care
Prior to surgery, patients are advised to avoid medications and supplements that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements. Smokers will need to stop smoking well in advance of the procedure.
If you are a parent of young children, make any childcare arrangements needed to allow you a restful recovery period per your surgeon’s instructions. All patients will need a responsible adult to drive them home after surgery, and if you undergo general anesthesia, they should stay with you for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
What to expect during the procedure
Talk with your surgeon about what will happen during surgery, and what options you may have. Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia, which numbs only the area being operated on; sedation anesthesia, in which you remain awake but sedated; or under general anesthesia, where you are fully unconscious. The choice depends on your comfort and your surgeon’s recommendation, so be sure to talk with them about what kind of sedation they recommend for you, and how it will affect your recovery and comfort level. Blepharoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that you will go home with a responsible adult after surgery.
Recovery after eyelid lift
After the procedure, patients typically experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which should subside within a week or two. Cold compresses and elevating your head while sleeping or resting can help reduce these symptoms.
Post-surgery recovery care
Most patients return to normal daily activities within a week to ten days post-surgery. During the recovery period, it’s crucial to protect the eyes from excessive strain, sunlight, and dust. Following post-operative instructions, including avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise, is essential to having a smooth recovery and avoiding complications.
Results
Noticeable improvements in the appearance of the eyes and the overall facial aesthetics are typically apparent within several weeks, as the bulk of your swelling and bruising diminish. The results of blepharoplasty are long-lasting. Ask your surgeon to see before and after photos of patients with similar concerns and surgical plans, which will provide a visual representation of the transformation you will have with an eyelid lift.
Cost of eyelid lift
The cost of blepharoplasty varies based on the complexity of the procedure, surgeon’s fees, and average costs in your geographic location. If the procedure is performed for medical reasons, such as to improve vision obscured by droopy eyelids, insurance may cover a portion of the cost; talk with your insurance company about any requirements for this coverage. For cosmetic procedures, most facial cosmetic surgeons offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable.
Can eyelid lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, eyelid lift is frequently performed at the same time as other facial cosmetic procedures such as a facelift or brow lift to enhance the overall rejuvenating effect. Your cosmetic surgeon can provide personalized advice based on your aesthetic goals.
Non-surgical enhancements
For patients seeking additional facial rejuvenation, non-surgical treatments like Botox® or fillers can complement the results of an eyelid lift.
Alternatives to eyelid lift
For those not ready for surgery, there are non-surgical alternatives to blepharoplasty, such as laser resurfacing, microneedling, or chemical peels, which can improve the skin’s texture and tone. However, these treatments are not able to address excess eyelid skin or fat pockets around the eyes.
References
Finsterer J. Ptosis: causes, presentation, and management. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2003 May-Jun;27(3):193-204. doi: 10.1007/s00266-003-0127-5.
Bernardini FP, Devoto MH, Skippen B. The “Eyelid Lift” Orbicularis Suspension Technique for Lower Blepharoplasty Surgery. Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine. 2020 May/Jun;22(3):227-228. doi: 10.1089/fpsam.2020.0028.
Rao V, Sullivan PK. Lower Lid Blepharoplasty in Men. Clinics in Plastic Surgery. 2022 Apr;49(2):213-220. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2021.12.001. PMID: 35367031.
Will MJ. Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty. Atlas of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2016 Sep;24(2):125-33. doi: 10.1016/j.cxom.2016.05.008.
Olds C, Most SP. Upper Blepharoplasty. JAMA. 2019;321(13):1320. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.1957
Branham GH. Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. 2016 May;24(2):129-38. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2015.12.004
Surgeons certified by the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS) are carefully vetted for adherence to the highest standards of surgical skill, patient care, safety, and satisfaction. Selecting a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon means that your procedure will be performed by a specialist with extensive training and experience in facial aesthetics. Schedule a consultation with a surgeon near you to discuss your aesthetic goals and learn if an eyelid lift is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of an eyelid lift?
The cost of an eyelid lift, also known as blepharoplasty, can vary widely based on geographic location, surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and the type of anesthesia used. Several elements of the process determine the cost, including surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, operating room facilities, or other related expenses. During your consultation with your blepharoplasty surgeon, you should expect to be presented with a clear and comprehensive cost quote
What is an upper eye lift called?
An upper eye lift is also commonly referred to as an upper blepharoplasty. This procedure targets the excess skin and fat in the upper eyelid area, which can cause a droopy or heavy appearance.
Is it safe to have an eyelid lift when I have blepharospasms?
Safety and appropriateness of an eyelid lift in patients with blepharospasms can vary, and should be determined on a case-by-case basis. It’s crucial that you have a thorough discussion with your ophthalmologist and cosmetic surgeon about the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.
What kind of doctor performs an eye lift?
Eye lift surgeries are typically performed by cosmetic or plastic surgeons who have additional specialty training in facial cosmetic surgeries, oculoplastic surgery, or reconstructive procedures of the face. Look for a surgeon who has a proven track record based on their before and after photos, online patient reviews on Real Patient Ratings and other trusted platforms, and reputation among other surgeons and previous patients. Finally, make sure that they perform eyelid lift as a regular part of their practice.
Facial cosmetic surgeons who are certified by the ABFCS devote a significant portion of their practice, if not all, to eyelid lift and other cosmetic procedures of the face, head, and neck. Learn about the difference in cosmetic and plastic surgery »
Can I get an eye lift without surgery?
While you cannot achieve the long-lasting and transformative results of surgery through non-surgical methods, options like eye lifting tape offer temporary improvement in eye definition and ptosis by holding up the excess skin in the upper eyelid area. A skilled injector may also use Botox-type neurotoxins to subtly lift the brow, which can help create the appearance of a lift even though it will not directly improve sagging eyelids or puffy bags.
Which is better, eye lift or brow surgery?
The choice between an eye lift (blepharoplasty) and brow lift surgery depends on the individual’s unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. An eye lift is ideal for removing excess skin and fat from the eyelids, while a brow lift is designed to raise the eyebrows and reduce creases and wrinkles on the forehead. Sometimes, for optimal results, these procedures may be recommended together. It’s important to discuss these options with your facial plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for you.
What are the incisions for eyelid lift surgery?
In upper blepharoplasty, the surgeon usually makes an incision along the natural crease of the upper eyelid. For a lower blepharoplasty, the incision is typically made just below the lash line. These locations allow for excess skin and fat to be removed while keeping scars hidden in the natural folds and lines of your eyes.
At what point will insurance or medicare pay for an eyelid lift?
Insurance or medicare may cover an eyelid lift if the procedure is deemed medically necessary, rather than purely cosmetic. For example, if drooping eyelids are significantly impairing your vision, the procedure may be covered. Each insurance provider has different criteria, so it’s important to check with your insurer.
How much can I lift after eyelid lift surgery?
After your eyelid lift surgery, it’s crucial to avoid any strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, for at least one week or as directed by your surgeon. This helps to minimize swelling and prevent complications. The exact duration can vary depending on individual healing rates and the nature of your surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with post-operative care instructions tailored to your situation.