What to expect with upper blepharoplasty

Female patient upper eyelid marking

Chester Tam

November 30, 2019

Patients who have unwanted amounts of skin sagging over their upper eyelids, a common problem associated with the aging process, are typically great candidates for an upper blepharoplasty (eye lift). This fast and effective in-office procedure is designed to rejuvenate your appearance and/or fix vision that is becoming impaired over time due to the excess sagging skin. An upper blepharoplasty procedure involves the surgical removal of excess skin around the upper portion of the eye through very small, hidden incisions located within the natural folds of each eyelid. The skin is then lifted upwards, the excess skin removed, and the incisions are closed. Any marks left by the small incisions in the eyelid creases are very minimal and diminish greatly over the next few months following surgery.

An upper blepharoplasty is typically performed in-office on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and takes one to two hours to complete. Similar to other surgical procedures, some minor bruising or swelling can be expected after eyelid surgery. The results will become more visible each day during the healing process with the final look being achieved within one to two months. The results of upper blepharoplasty surgery will be long-lasting. You may undergo upper blepharoplasty at the same time as another procedure.

Prior to your procedure you will be given specific instructions that include a pre-care and post-care timeline, supplements and medications to avoid in the weeks leading up to your procedure, how to care for your eyes post-procedure, medications to apply and/or take orally to reduce the potential for infection and aid in your healing process, and when to come back for your follow-up with Dr. Foulad.

The initial healing involved following an upper blepharoplasty may include some swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses and ointment. Irritation at the incision sites is also possible. While there usually is little pain involved in this surgery, there can be swelling and/or bruising. The majority of patients are presentable to go in public between 10-14 days following their procedure. However, it may take a few months before final healing is fully completed.

For further information on getting an upper blepharoplasty with Dr. Foulad, please contact our office to set up an in-person or virtual consultation.

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