Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
Understanding Eyelid Lift Surgery
As we age, the skin on our eyelids stretches and muscles weaken. This can cause the eyelids to droop or look puffy.
Upper blepharoplasty removes the loose skin that hangs over your eyelid crease. It also addresses puffiness caused by bulging fat pads. By gently removing or repositioning these tissues, we can restore a smoother and more open shape to your eyes. This helps fix the 'hooded' look that can make you appear tired even when you are well-rested.
There are two main reasons patients choose this surgery. Functional blepharoplasty is performed when sagging skin blocks your upper field of vision. This can make activities like driving or reading difficult. Cosmetic blepharoplasty is done to improve your appearance by creating a more alert and youthful look. During your consultation, we will determine which approach matches your needs.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Most candidates are adults who are generally healthy and have realistic goals for their results.
You might be a good candidate if you have trouble seeing traffic lights or feel a heaviness in your eyelids at the end of the day. Our ophthalmologists use advanced technology, including visual field testing, to measure how much the drooping skin affects your sight. You may also be a candidate if you are unhappy with the way your eyelids look due to aging.
- Excess skin resting on your eyelashes.
- Puffy bags or fullness in the upper inner corners of your eyes.
- A tired or angry appearance caused by heavy eyelids.
- Forehead strain from constantly raising your eyebrows to see.
Your safety is our priority. We review your medical history to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery. Conditions like dry eye syndrome, thyroid eye disease, or diabetes need to be managed before surgery. We also recommend that patients stop smoking several weeks before and after the procedure, as smoking slows down healing.
The Procedure: What to Expect
We perform upper blepharoplasty using precise techniques to minimize scarring and ensure a natural result.
Before your surgery, we will give you specific instructions. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or blood thinners, that increase bleeding. We will coordinate with your other doctors to do this safely. You should also arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure.
The procedure usually takes about one hour. We typically use local anesthesia with light sedation, so you are comfortable but awake. Your surgeon makes a small incision hidden within the natural crease of your eyelid. Through this opening, we remove excess skin and adjust the fat and muscle. The incision is closed with fine sutures that leave a nearly invisible scar once healed.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery is generally quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a week or two.
You may experience some swelling and bruising, which is normal. Using cool compresses and keeping your head elevated helps reduce these symptoms. Your vision might be slightly blurry at first due to the protective ointment we apply. Most discomfort is mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or medication we prescribe.
You should avoid heavy lifting, bending over, and strenuous exercise for about two weeks. Most people feel ready to return to work or social activities in 7 to 10 days. We will remove your stitches in our office about one week after surgery. While you will see immediate improvements, your final results will settle in over a few months as the last of the swelling goes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are happy to answer all your questions during your visit, but here are some common things patients ask.
If the surgery is medically necessary because drooping skin blocks your vision, insurance may cover it. We use visual field tests and photos to document your need for coverage. If the surgery is done purely to improve your appearance, it is considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance. Our team can help you understand your benefits.
The incision is made in the natural fold of your eyelid. This makes the scar very difficult to see once it has healed. We use advanced surgical techniques to ensure the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Upper blepharoplasty provides long-lasting results. For many patients, the procedure only needs to be done once. While surgery turns back the clock, it does not stop the aging process completely. Protecting your eyes from the sun and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help your results last longer.
Expert Eyelid Care in Marlton
Your vision and appearance are in expert hands at ReFocus Eye Health Marlton. Our multispecialty team combines medical expertise with an artistic touch to deliver results that look natural and improve your quality of life. Whether you are coming from Marlton, Voorhees, or anywhere in the Greater Philadelphia area, we are dedicated to helping you see clearly and look your best.
Dr. Heuer was very professional and easy to talk to. I enjoyed being in what appeared to be an all female office. I highly recommend allowing them to take care of your eye care needs.
Lasaunji Richardson
Dr. Charles Glass at Refocus is exceptional with his professional and thorough care and absolute confirm for his patients. I would highly recommend him!
Lauren Stith
Dr. Lin is the best. She was patient, professional, and very helpful. She is very skilled and I highly recommend her for all of your speciality needs!
Amanda Otero
I came in for an emergency appointment, and they accommodated me and handled my care with compassion and professionalism. Doctors are always prepared, and aware of my medical conditions and concerns.
Cathy Quattrone
Doctor Grossman and his team are very skilled. He successfully removed my cataracts 4 years ago. I am now a once a year patient. They answered all of my questions at my recent appointment.
Marilyn Waltzer
Contact Us
Tuesday: 8am-7pm
Wednesday: 8am-7pm
Thursday: 8am-7pm
Friday: 8am-5pm
Saturday: 9am-2pm
Sunday: Closed