Blepharoplasty: What You Need to Know About Eyelid Surgery

Your eyes are often the first thing people notice about you — but what if drooping eyelids or under-eye bags are sending the wrong message? Whether you're looking to refresh your appearance or correct vision issues caused by sagging eyelids, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) may be the solution.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper or lower eyelids. It's commonly done for:
- Cosmetic reasons – to reduce signs of aging, puffiness, or tired-looking eyes.
- Medical reasons – to improve vision obstructed by drooping eyelids (especially upper lids).
The procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on your needs.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You might consider blepharoplasty if you have:
- Droopy, sagging upper eyelids
- Puffy bags under your eyes
- Excess skin interfering with vision
- A tired, aged, or "sad" appearance around the eyes
Good candidates are generally healthy, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcome.
What to Expect From the Procedure
Before Surgery:
You’ll consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or ophthalmologist who specializes in eyelid surgery. They’ll assess your facial structure, medical history, and goals.
During Surgery:
- Typically takes 1–2 hours
- Upper eyelid surgery can be performed under local anesthesia and lower or both upper and lower eyelid surgeries are performed under general anesthesia
- Small incisions are made along natural eyelid creases to minimize visible scarring
- Excess tissue is removed or repositioned
Recovery:
- Swelling and bruising for the first 1–2 weeks
- Cold compresses and eye ointment may be used
- Most people return to work in 7–10 days
- Final results become more apparent after a few weeks
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgery, blepharoplasty has potential risks, including:
- Infection or bleeding
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Temporary blurred vision
- Difficulty closing eyes (rare)
- Scarring or asymmetry
Choosing an experienced, qualified surgeon greatly reduces these risks.
Results and Benefits
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Brighter, more youthful appearance
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Improved field of vision (for functional blepharoplasty)
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Boosted confidence and self-esteem
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Long-lasting results – many enjoy benefits for 5–10+ years
Blepharoplasty vs. Non-Surgical Options
If you're not ready for surgery, there are non-surgical treatments like Botox, fillers, or laser resurfacing that can help tighten the skin around the eyes. However, they can’t remove excess skin or fat and results are temporary.
For more dramatic and lasting improvements, blepharoplasty remains the gold standard.
Blepharoplasty is a safe and effective way to rejuvenate your eyes and enhance both your appearance and quality of life. Whether you're tired of looking tired or need help with vision impairment, this procedure can offer transformative results with minimal downtime. If you’re considering eyelid surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. William Wallace at Fleming Island Plastic Surgery, a skilled surgeon who has expertise with eyelid surgery. So, why wait, call us at 904-990-3477!









