Eyelid surgery(Blepharoplasty)  is a procedure designed to correct the aging appearance around the eyes. Blepharoplasty removes excess fat (bags) and skin from the upper and lower eyelids, producing a more youthful, rested appearance. However, it does not correct "crow's feet" lines or eliminate dark circles under the eyes.

Eyelid surgery may be done separately or in conjunction with other procedures. For example, if aging upper eyelids are accompanied by sagging eyebrows, a forehead lift may be recommended. Removing “crow's feet” may require chemical peeling or laser resurfacing. The doctor will discuss the various options with you at the initial consultation. Appropriate candidates for surgery are men and women who are physically healthy and realistic in their expectations. During your initial consultation, your goals and motivations will be discussed to gain a full understanding of your desired outcome and the realistic possibilities of surgery.

In most cases, both eyes are done at the same time. However, the upper eyelids or lower eyelids can be done alone if the patient prefers. Generally, upper blepharoplasty is done through an incision hidden in the natural crease of the upper eyelid. Excess skin and fat are removed to restore a more youthful contour. For lower eyelid surgery, the incision is hidden just below the lash margin. Through this incision, excess skin and fat are removed to eliminate fullness or bulges. In some cases, your surgeon may determine that the best approach to remove excess fat is through an incision inside the lower eyelid. This technique will remove excess fat but will not remove excess skin.

Blepharoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis and requires one to two hours. Patients may choose between local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Following surgery, the patient will be monitored in the recovery room. Initially, bruising and swelling are expected after surgery, but discomfort is usually minimal. Sutures are removed four to six days after surgery. Discoloration usually fades in one to three weeks. It may take several months for all the swelling to subside and the scars to smooth and fade.

Although heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for a week or two, patients can resume their normal activities as soon after surgery as they feel able.